CDM’s flagship RJ 155 debut and significance

Cantiere delle Marche (CDM) has released interior images of the first RJ 155, christened RJ, which made its public debut at the Monaco Yacht Show. At 46.9 metres this hull is the yard’s largest project to date; it was commissioned by a returning client and is presented as a purpose-built explorer with a steel hull, top-tier fit-out and a claimed range in excess of 5,000 nautical miles.
The new RJ is an evolution of the owner’s previous RJ 130 (launched in 2021 and now renamed Nuri). CDM leadership noted the owner chose a larger model after being satisfied with the performance and comfort of the earlier yacht, underlining the continuity of client relationships in the yard’s programme.

Design and naval architecture: Paszkowski and Ausonio

Italian designer Francesco Paszkowski is responsible for the RJ range’s external lines; the RJ 155 carries his signature elongated overhangs and oversized stern verandas that extend usable deck space and create strong visual proportions. Naval architecture and engineering were handled by Pierluigi Ausonio, delivering hull and layout choices aimed at long-range, seagoing capability.

The layout spans three decks plus a sundeck while keeping gross tonnage below the 500GT threshold and a beam of 8.8 metres. Interiors are by Achille Salvagni, who also supplied much of the loose furniture to meet an owner’s brief for accommodation of up to 12 guests across five cabins; the main-deck forward owner’s suite includes a large, fully equipped gym. Storage for tenders and toys is split between the foredeck and the lazarette, freeing exterior decks for guest use.

Performance, range and systems: engines, tanks, stabilisers

Propulsion consists of twin Caterpillar C32 Acert WOSR engines, which provide a reported top speed of 15 knots. For onboard comfort during extended passages the yacht is fitted with two pairs of electric stabilisers, intended to reduce roll both underway and at anchor.
Fuel capacity is quoted at 65,000 litres, enabling a stated range of more than 5,000 nautical miles at a nine-knot cruising speed without refuelling. Those figures, combined with the steel hull and expedition-oriented systems, position the RJ 155 for transoceanic cruising and prolonged operations away from port support.

Why RJ matters: interior, capability and CDM’s growth

The RJ 155 represents a consolidation of CDM’s explorer credentials: a purpose-built hull form, robust systems, substantial fuel capacity and a high level of interior fit-out tailored to an owner who prioritises long-range autonomy and onboard comfort. Achille Salvagni’s interior scheme and the expansive exterior decks reflect a balance between capability and liveability that owners seeking true expedition performance typically require.

For CDM the project also signals growth in scale and orderbook strength. The yard currently has 14 superyacht projects in production, including three larger Flexplorer 165 models sold in April, July and December 2024, and the RJ 155 sets a new reference within that programme. Taken together, the vessel and CDM’s pipeline indicate continued emphasis on long-range, owner-focused explorers as a core part of the yard’s market position.

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