John Johnson | Yacht Buoy

John Johnson | Yacht Buoy

Explore the Timeless Appeal of EMERA: A Camper & Nicholsons Classic (For Sale - €1,800,000 VAT Paid)

A true classic: exploring the design, performance, and upgrades that make EMERA a rare opportunity for discerning yachtsmen.

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John Johnson - Yacht Buoy
Jan 07, 2025
∙ Paid
Image credit: Fraser Yachts

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Boating aficionados know that a vessel with history, character, and capability is a rare find. EMERA, built by Camper & Nicholsons in 1974, epitomises the golden era of custom explorer yacht design while embracing the modernity that decades of expert upgrades have afforded her. At 39.43 metres, this steel-hulled motor yacht is a testament to quality craftsmanship, fit for trans-Atlantic passages or leisurely coastal escapes. Her enduring story makes her a captivating prospect for owners who value both legacy and performance.

The Build: A Legacy of Strength and Style

EMERA’s naval architecture comes from J. S. White of Cowes, a name steeped in maritime pedigree, known for building Royal Navy destroyers. Her robust steel hull reflects a commitment to durability and seaworthiness, attributes essential for a rugged vessel designed to tackle challenging waters anywhere in the world. Complementing her strength is an aluminium superstructure, which reduces weight while maintaining structural integrity. This carefully engineered combination allows EMERA to glide through the water with both stability and fuel-efficient grace.


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Her exterior lines are classic and purposeful, with proportions that hint at her trans-Atlantic capabilities. John Bannenberg’s interior design adds a contrasting element of refined sophistication. Bannenberg’s vision brings understated luxury, with functionality seamlessly integrated into every corner. From the materials used to the thoughtful layout, EMERA’s interior invites relaxation while ensuring practical usability.

Specifications: Performance Meets Practicality

EMERA isn’t just about aesthetics—her specifications confirm her capability. With a beam of 6.92 metres and a draft of 2.07 metres, she offers fantastic stability, even in challenging conditions. Her twin Baudoin engines, installed as part of a significant refit in 2019, deliver a combined 3,000 horsepower. This powertrain enables her to cruise comfortably at 14 knots, with a top speed of 15 knots—ideal for owners who value efficiency without sacrificing performance.

Image Credit: Fraser Yachts

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For long voyages, EMERA offers a range of 4,000 nautical miles at an economical speed of 12.5 knots. This makes her a capable coastal cruiser and an excellent choice for extended passages, offering true autonomy at sea. Her fuel and water capacities further support this, with 39,436 litres (10,420 gallons) of diesel and 20,422 litres (5,394 gallons) of freshwater ensuring you’re well-provisioned for the journey ahead.

Onboard: Space to Relax and Explore

EMERA’s layout reflects a careful balance between guest comfort and operational efficiency. She accommodates up to nine guests across five staterooms, including a VIP suite connected to an additional cabin. This layout is ideal for families or groups, offering both privacy and flexibility. Each stateroom is designed with attention to detail, combining comfort with practicality.


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The crew quarters, housing up to eight members, are situated to ensure smooth operations without infringing on guest spaces. This thoughtful separation allows for discreet and attentive service, enhancing the onboard experience.

On deck, EMERA offers inviting spaces for all occasions. The expansive aft deck is perfect for al fresco dining or unwinding with a book, while the sun deck provides a panoramic vantage point to take in the surroundings. Two Novamarine tenders—a 5.3m diesel-powered model with a 130HP Volvo Penta engine and a 4.6m outboard with 60HP—expand the possibilities for exploration, whether it’s landing on secluded beaches or navigating shallow waters.

Image credit: Fraser Yachts

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Systems and Upgrades: Reliability Refined

EMERA’s systems have been thoroughly modernised, ensuring she’s as reliable as she is elegant. Key features include:

  • Stabilisers: Vosper Koopnautic units that provide stability in varying sea conditions.

  • Navigation Suite: Furuno radar, Simrad GPS, and a suite of advanced instruments offer precise and dependable navigation.

  • Utilities: A Carrier centralised air-conditioning system keeps the interior comfortable in all climates, while Tecnomarine water makers producing an impressive 500 litres per hour support extended stays away from port. An Alfa Laval fuel separator enhances efficiency by ensuring optimal fuel quality.

  • Safety Systems: With three life rafts, Co2 fire extinguishing systems, and dual communication setups, EMERA is well-prepared for any eventuality.

Image Credit: Fraser Yachts

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Her refit history is a testament to the care and attention she has received. Between 2008 and 2012, she underwent an extensive overhaul, including hull repainting, teak deck replacement, and generator and electrical system upgrades. The 2024 updates further cement her status as a turnkey yacht, with new gearboxes, shafts, and mechanical enhancements ensuring she’s ready for immediate use.

A Yacht for the Discerning

For those who value classic builds that have been meticulously maintained and thoughtfully upgraded, EMERA represents a unique opportunity. Her range and seaworthiness make her a versatile platform for adventure, while her timeless design ensures she’s as much a pleasure to look at as she is to sail.

Image Credit: Fraser Yachts

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From coastal cruising to ambitious trans-oceanic journeys, EMERA is equipped to handle it all. She offers a balance of character and capability that is increasingly rare in today’s market, appealing to owners who seek more than just a yacht—they seek a legacy.

CLICK HERE to be taken to Fraser’s website in order to find out more about EMERA.

Exclusive Access: The Shipmate’s Note – The Fascinating Legacy of J. S. White of Cowes, Naval Innovators Behind EMERA

Cowes on the Isle of Wight is steeped in maritime history, but few names are as intertwined with its shipbuilding legacy as J. Samuel White. This British firm didn’t just build ships – it shaped naval innovation for centuries. From pioneering destroyers to lifeboats, and even dabbling in early aircraft production, White’s story is one of grit, ingenuity, and adaptability.

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