Project Shackleton (O3) by Lürssen: What We Know About the 110m Explorer Yacht Launching in 2026
Project Shackleton (also known as O3) is a 110-meter expedition-style superyacht under construction at Lürssen, with delivery expected in 2026. Originally referred to as Project Icecap, this vessel has progressed through a complex build timeline that includes design changes, ownership transitions, and rebranding during development.
Built for long-range cruising and capable of polar exploration, Project Shackleton blends large-yacht luxury with rugged expedition capability. Here’s what’s currently known.
Who’s Building Project Shackleton?
Project Shackleton is being built by Lürssen, one of the world’s leading superyacht builders known for large custom projects. The yacht began construction under the working name Project Icecap and was later sold and renamed during its build phase.
- Builder: Lürssen (Germany)
- Design Evolution: Initial work by Salt Ship Design, with later refinements from Espen Øino International
- Development Timeline: Construction began in the late 2010s, with the yacht entering sea trials in 2025
- Project Name: Now publicly identified as O3 during trials
The project has moved through Lürssen’s multiple facilities, including hull work at Peene-Werft and outfitting in Hamburg.
Project Shackleton: Key Specs & Features
Though full technical details remain limited, key figures and capabilities have been reported through industry sources and sea trial observations.
| Specification | Details |
| Length | ~110 meters |
| Gross Tonnage | ~6,300 GT |
| Beam | ~17.5 meters |
| Draft | ~4.5 meters |
| Hull Type | Steel (ice-class rated) |
| Superstructure | Aluminium |
| Propulsion | Diesel-electric with multiple engines |
| Top Speed | ~24 knots (reported) |
| Guest Capacity | ~20 guests |
| Crew Capacity | ~30–40 |
| Helipad | Yes (aft deck) |
This configuration supports extended offshore operations in remote regions while maintaining the comfort and scale expected of a Lürssen build.
Design & Capability Highlights
Project Shackleton is built for serious expedition use, with design choices that prioritize stability, range, and operational flexibility.
- Expedition Profile: The steel hull is expected to be ice-class certified, enabling travel to high-latitude regions.
- Diesel-Electric Propulsion: Offers improved efficiency and reduced onboard noise and vibration — suitable for long-range cruising.
- Helicopter Operations: The aft helideck expands access to remote areas and serves dual use for tender or gear loading.
- Refined Exterior Styling: Espen Øino’s involvement suggests the final profile balances function with clean, modern lines.
While interior details remain undisclosed, the vessel is expected to include standard large-yacht amenities tailored for long-term use.
Build Progress and Delivery Timeline
Project Shackleton has been in development for several years, with construction milestones spread across Lürssen’s network of shipyards.
- Initial Planning & Build Start: Late 2010s
- Hull Construction: Completed at Lürssen’s Peene-Werft facility
- Transfer for Outfitting: Moved to Hamburg for completion
- Sea Trials: Began under the name O3 in 2025
- Estimated Delivery: Set for 2026
Sea trials are ongoing, marking the final stages of testing before delivery. Additional details may be revealed as the build nears completion.
Goes along
Project Jassi by Lürssen: What We Know About the 102m Superyacht Ahead of Its 2026 Launch
HYPE-R YACHT
Largest Private Superyacht: Inside the Record-Holding Azzam
You might also like
Project Jassi by Lürssen: What We Know About the 102m Superyacht Ahead of Its 2026 Launch
Project Tanzanite Superyacht: Specs, Design & What to Expect in 2026
BLUEGAME BGX83
Hull 597 by Admiral: Specs, Features & What to Expect from Italy’s Largest 2026 Superyacht Launch
Project 1014 by Feadship: What We Know About the 101m Custom Superyacht Launching in 2026