ICE Yachts is presenting the ICE80 Blue Water as a world premiere at the 2026 Cannes Yachting Festival, with the new flagship measuring 23.99 metres overall and therefore sitting exactly inside Luxury Yacht Guide’s under-24-metre coverage. Developed with Felci Yacht Design, the yacht is positioned as a long-range fast cruiser that combines a full-carbon structure with a comfort-oriented interior and systems package.
The design uses a reverse sheerline, curved-glass windscreen and flush deck hardware to create a low, powerful profile, while an APM telescopic lifting keel varies draft from 3.10 to 4.70 metres. ICE Yachts also specifies a 48-volt electrical architecture, high-modulus carbon rig and twin variable-speed generators to support the yacht’s cruising role.
A flagship built entirely in carbon
ICE Yachts says the hull and structural package are built in carbon using vacuum infusion and epoxy resin, an approach intended to save weight while maintaining stiffness. On a yacht of this size, structural weight affects not only sailing performance but also how much displacement remains available for cruising systems, stores and interior equipment.
The deck continues the performance focus with flush-mounted hardware and natural teak, while the curved windscreen adds protection without turning the yacht into a conventional raised-saloon cruiser. The result is intended to balance race-derived engineering with the visual restraint expected from a premium bluewater yacht.
The lifting keel widens the cruising envelope
An APM carbon telescopic keel changes draft between 3.10 and 4.70 metres, giving the crew the option to reduce draft for harbour access while retaining a deeper configuration for sailing performance. The steering package uses JP3 race bushings and an autoclave-cured carbon rudder stock, reinforcing the emphasis on precise helm response.
Variable draft is particularly useful on large performance cruisers because fixed deep keels can restrict access to anchorages and marinas. The trade-off is added hydraulic and mechanical complexity, so owners will want to consider inspection access, service support and the operating procedures required over a long ownership cycle.
Cruising systems support long-range use
Auxiliary power comes from a 250hp Cummins 4.6-litre engine, backed by two 10.5kW Mase generators that can operate at variable speed and in parallel. ICE Yachts also specifies 1,150 litres of fresh water and 1,120 litres of main fuel capacity, plus a separate day tank and dedicated grey- and black-water storage.
The electrical system operates at 48 volts, which can reduce current and cable size compared with lower-voltage installations carrying the same power. For owners, the practical benefit depends on how well the yard integrates charging, hotel loads, navigation equipment and service access rather than on voltage alone.
Cannes marks the public debut
ICE Yachts is using Cannes to present the ICE80 Blue Water alongside the smaller ICE70 Sport, giving buyers two different interpretations of the yard’s fast-cruiser philosophy. The 23.99-metre overall length is significant because it places the flagship immediately below the 24-metre line used by Luxury Yacht Guide.
The premiere should also help reveal how the full-carbon structure, lifting keel and systems package translate from specification sheet to finished yacht. For prospective owners, the most important questions will be the sailing balance, machinery noise, interior storage and ease of handling with a realistic cruising crew.
