First Protector Targa 410 Expedition arrives in UK for superyacht duty

The first Protector Targa 410 Expedition has arrived in the UK, which Protector Boats says reflects its growing capability to deliver mission-specific superyacht chase boats.

Developed by New Zealand-based Rayglass Boats with the explorer superyacht market in mind, the Targa 410 Expedition combines Protector’s commercial-grade construction and seakeeping with greater autonomy, comfort and scope for yacht-specific customisation, according to the builder.

The vessel is also the first Protector sold by European distributor PB Europe, part of the Ancasta Group, with inboard engines. Its twin Yanmar diesel installation was specified to comply with the single-fuel policies increasingly adopted by superyachts.

Now at Ancasta’s headquarters in Hamble for final fit-out and commissioning, the boat shows how Protector’s engineering can be combined with PB Europe’s superyacht expertise and Ancasta’s local technical capabilities to build a chase boat around a specific yacht’s operational programme.

The Targa 410 Expedition has been developed in response to the changing role of the superyacht chase boat, PB Europe says. As yachts take on more ambitious cruising programmes, support craft are being asked to do more than transfer guests ashore, with greater range, all-weather protection and storage enabling diving, fishing, watersports and expedition activities independently for longer periods.

The model builds on Protector’s established Targa platform, with a revised cabin and helm arrangement that incorporates a distinctive inward-raked windscreen for improved visibility and a more protected environment in adverse conditions. The cabin can be configured with options including additional refrigeration, a compact galley and bunk accommodation, while a solar power system can support onboard electrical systems away from the yacht. Deck layouts and storage can also be tailored, with options including dive racks, game-fishing configurations and bespoke watersports and expedition equipment.

One of the most significant specifications on the first UK Targa 410 Expedition is its twin Yanmar 8L V370s diesel inboard installation with ZT370 stern drives, replacing the outboard configuration traditionally associated with Protector craft.

For superyachts with a single-fuel policy, diesel propulsion lets the chase boat draw on the mothership’s existing fuel infrastructure, easing bunkering and logistics, particularly for explorer yachts in remote regions with limited fuel access.

Following construction in New Zealand, the Targa 410 Expedition is undergoing final customisation and commissioning by Ancasta’s aftersales team in Hamble, including a custom composite deck, underwater lighting and final detailing. Ancasta can also manufacture and install additional yacht-specific equipment in the UK, such as canvas work, shades and splash protection.

The process enables PB Europe to define the operational brief with owners, captains and crew, with Protector handling design and build in New Zealand and Ancasta completing bespoke elements near delivery. It builds on Protector’s commercial heritage: engineered originally for police, pilot and military use, Protector RIBs provide a platform for specialised superyacht configurations.