CdM Launches Darwin 102 Haze²: A Striking Explorer Yacht with Bold Personality
Cantiere delle Marche has unveiled its latest explorer yacht, the Darwin 102 Haze², marking the shipyard’s third launch in just one month. This latest addition continues the strong legacy of the Darwin Class—a line that has become a defining symbol of CdM’s explorer fleet, now counting 16 vessels, with five of them in the 102-foot range.
“The Darwin series has been a core part of our identity since its debut in 2010,” explains Ennio Cecchini, co-founder and President of CdM. “It was conceived to combine expedition-grade seaworthiness with the comfort and finish of a superyacht, all within a manageable size. The series has far exceeded our initial expectations—both commercially and in its ability to adapt to owner needs.”
The owner of Haze², a seasoned British yachtsman, first encountered the Darwin Class at the 2022 Cannes Yachting Festival while touring a Darwin 106. Impressed by the yacht’s solid build and high-volume hull design—significantly more robust than many motor yachts of similar dimensions—he was drawn to the long-range capabilities, especially the ample fuel reserves and storage that allow for extended voyages without interruption.
“These yachts share a spirit of adventure, but every Darwin is uniquely built around the owner's lifestyle,” says Vasco Buonpensiere, co-founder and CEO of CdM. “That flexibility, paired with our commitment to quality construction, helped build the trust behind this collaboration.” The deal was facilitated by Andrew Bond of Fraser Yachts, who supported the owner—an experienced sailor familiar with both motor and sailing yachts—through the process.
Following the initial introduction, the owner worked hand in hand with CdM’s team to customise the yacht’s layout and technical specs. Among the tailored features are a modified windscreen for enhanced visibility in the wheelhouse and a retractable tender crane discreetly tucked into the Sun Deck—a solution inspired by CdM’s RJ series. The yacht’s exterior styling bears the distinctive imprint of Sergio Cutolo of Hydro Tec, who has been integral to the Darwin line since its origin.
Haze² stands out with its bold metallic grey hull and blue superstructure, further amplifying the rugged elegance that defines the Darwin Class.
Inside, the London-based studio Lawson Robb was entrusted with creating a contemporary and tactile interior. Designed for 10 guests across five suites, with accommodations for a crew of six, the layout emphasises comfort, elegance, and material richness. The interior brief focused on natural textures, low-gloss wood, brushed bronze, and earthy palettes. Mosaic details and custom lighting—both indirect and pendant—enhance the architectural flow and visual depth of the spaces. Clean lines and structured furniture maintain a modern edge, while layered finishes provide warmth and timelessness.
With an LOA of 31 metres and a beam of 7.43 metres, Haze² has a displacement of 250 tonnes and a gross tonnage of 245 GT. She’s powered by twin Caterpillar C18 Acert engines, each delivering 500 kW, allowing for a transoceanic range of over 5,000 nautical miles at 9 knots. The yacht will be available for both private use and charter and will be classed to reflect that versatility.
With Haze², Cantiere delle Marche continues to demonstrate its mastery in building rugged, long-range yachts with a refined soul—ready to take on the world’s oceans without compromising on elegance or comfort.
Photo: Cantieredellemarche
