Transforming the 2013 Arpoador Build: Inace Finalizes the Enejota Project

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Commercial Origins

The foundation of a highly capable explorer often lies in industrial roots. The 46.7-metre Enejota began its operational life in 2013, originally constructed by Arpoador Shipyard to serve strictly as a commercial support vessel. The hull was subsequently sold in 2022 to a new owner, rumored to be Brazilian footballer Neymar. Following the acquisition, Inace Superyachts (ISY) was contracted to completely overhaul the platform, stripping away its industrial purpose to establish a fully customized, long-range explorer yacht.

The South American Overhaul

Executing a refit of this magnitude requires a facility capable of handling severe structural modifications. ISY managed the entire scope of the Enejota project in-house, taking direct responsibility for the engineering, conversion, outfitting, and final delivery. The shipyard accurately categorized the process as one of the most ambitious yacht conversion projects ever completed in South America. The execution required seamless integration of new professional-grade systems into an aging commercial hull to ensure sustained operational autonomy during extended passages.

Redefining the Interior Volume

Transforming a support vessel into a luxury asset demands an entirely new spatial configuration. ISY partnered with Brazilian naval architect Fernando De Almeida to optimize the deck layouts for maximum liveability. The resulting architecture yields approximately 800 square metres of usable interior and exterior living space. The sub-deck arrangement was entirely reconfigured to accommodate guests across six dedicated suites, ensuring the vessel provides high levels of onboard comfort without compromising its rugged exterior profile.

Aviation and Entertainment Infrastructure

Operating a true explorer yacht requires the ability to remain entirely self-sufficient in remote anchorages. To facilitate immediate airborne transfers, the design team integrated a fully certified helideck onto the superstructure. Below the aviation platform, the decks are segmented into expansive entertainment areas designed to support large guest parties. The integration of these lifestyle amenities is backed by heavy-duty operational systems, ensuring the vessel maintains its long-range cruising capabilities regardless of the onboard guest load.

Waterjet Propulsion Dynamics

Maneuverability in shallow or poorly charted waters is a primary requirement for any expedition hull. The Enejota is driven by a specialized propulsion matrix featuring four 1,450hp Caterpillar engines coupled directly to a waterjet system. This configuration drastically improves the yacht’s shallow-water capabilities while delivering precise handling feedback to the helm. At full throttle, the 46.7-metre platform can reach an estimated top speed of 20 knots.

The Brazilian Shipbuilding Trajectory

The delivery of Enejota signals a broader shift in the regional superyacht manufacturing sector. A spokesperson for ISY confirmed that projects involving this level of complex naval engineering and bespoke outfitting prove that world-class explorer yachts can be successfully engineered and delivered from Brazil to meet international standards. The shipyard continues to expand its custom portfolio, currently managing the construction of the latest unit from its 32.3-metre Aventura 106 series, following the successful delivery of the inaugural Sea Boss late last year.

Image from Inace Yachts
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