ZEMBRA is the new yacht Delta Marine just launched in Seattle, WA.

William P. Wright

Full disclosure: I’m kinda sweet on Delta Marine for a couple reasons. First and foremost, the shipyard is one of the few large yacht builders that are based in my home country—the United States. Second, Delta Marine is a family-owned and operated yard that’s been building commercial boats and luxury yachts for almost 60 years. And best of all, now that they’ve just launched ZEMBRA, a brand new custom-built 152-foot-long explorer that’s designed to go anywhere, I’m happy to remind prospective new yacht owners that they don’t necessarily need to go to Europe or other parts of the world to find a shipyard that builds large, high-quality custom yachts. Delta Marine is in Seattle, Washington.

And ZEMBRA’s Arizona bronze-painted hull, meticulous joinery and significant expedition capability are just a few examples of Delta Marine’s dedication to quality craftmanship. According to advance reports, large expanses of glass, clear angular lines, and a purposeful profile reflect the Owners’ vision for a yacht equally suited to cruising and exploration.

“ZEMBRA isn’t just a yacht,” says the owner. “It’s how we will share many incredible places we’ve explored that are only accessible by yacht with our grandchildren and dear friends. Getting to experience these places again through their eyes and exploring many new ones is the goal of ZEMBRA.”

Developed in close collaboration between Delta Marine and the owners, ZEMBRA is equipped to support experiences above, below, and beyond the water. A dedicated helicopter landing area, two-person ICON A5 amphibious aircraft, a FunAir slide, two jet skis, and three-passenger U-Boat Worx submersible expand the yacht’s capabilities. A Williams Jet Tender and a comprehensive water toy inventory are all stored inboard to preserve the yacht’s clean profile.

The interiors were designed by award-winning interior designer Roger Thomas, who brought his experience designing high-end hospitality spaces to create an intimate, sophisticated feel throughout the yacht. Stainless steel accents, custom oak finishes, and bold patterned carpet lend a pop of color to the transitional-style interior.

Accommodations include five staterooms: a full-beam master suite on the main deck and four large guest cabins below, one of which is wheelchair-accessible. A fifth stateroom acts as a convertible fitness space with two Pullman berths. The carefully considered layouts support wellness and ease of living during extended voyages. An elevator connects every deck. The sundeck offers room to stretch out and take in the view, while a hot tub provides a place to unwind after a full day enjoying the yacht’s activities. On the bridge deck, a large outdoor table invites guests to gather for alfresco dining, extending the yacht’s elegant interiors outside.

"All of us at Delta Marine were thrilled to work with the Owners to help bring their dream to life," says Michelle Jones, Vice President of Delta Marine. "ZEMBRA pushed our team in the best ways. It's been a project full of both challenges and rewards. We look forward to seeing what destinations ZEMBRA reaches next."

ZEMBRA features a composite hull, twin Caterpillar engines, and zero-speed stabilizers for a smooth, stable ride. A 3,500-pound SWL boom crane mounted on the bridge deck and a 10,000-pound SWL stern gantry crane enable a safe, efficient deployment of expedition equipment. Built to travel anywhere in the world safely and efficiently, ZEMBRA accommodates up to 12 guests and a crew of 10.

Following delivery later this year, ZEMBRA will be available for charter through Northrop & Johnson.