Polarfuchs

Historic German Icebreaker – Conversion to Expedition Yacht

Polarfuchs is a remarkable 32-metre steel icebreaker with a substantial commercial and governmental working history. Built by J.G. Hitzler in Germany in 1956/57, she was originally constructed for demanding North Sea operations and spent much of her working life as a government vessel of the former German Democratic Republic.

Based in Genova, Italy, Polarfuchs was employed in a wide range of offshore duties, including sea rescue, patrol operations, buoy positioning and maintenance, escort duties for hazardous cargoes, fire prevention and other medium- and long-range coastal operations.

Unlike a conventional tug, Polarfuchs was designed as a multipurpose, high-speed working vessel, capable of operating in demanding weather and sea conditions. Her icebreaker hull, substantial scantlings and deep displacement hull provide an exceptionally robust platform for conversion to a private expedition yacht, support vessel or large yacht tender/support ship.

Construction & Hull

The vessel is constructed in special-grade steel, with exceptionally substantial hull plating and structural members.

According to the original documentation, ultrasonic thickness measurements carried out in 2012 and 2014 showed no measurable reduction from the original designed thicknesses. The hull structure is described as considerably heavier than that of a conventional workboat or ocean-going tug of similar dimensions.

The deep-displacement hull and generous beam provide excellent stability, particularly at low and moderate speeds. Fixed lateral bilge keels further contribute to comfortable motion at sea.

The characteristic raised bow and reinforced forward structure reflect her original icebreaking purpose.

Principal dimensions

• Length overall: 32.09 m
• Registered/Fl. length: 27.93 m
• Beam: 8.02 m according to the specification section
• Draft: 3.80 m
• Gross tonnage: 202 GT
• Net tonnage: 60 NT
• Displacement: approx. 350 tonnes
• Construction: Steel
• Builder: J.G. Hitzler, Germany
• Year: 1956/57

Main Engine & Propulsion

Polarfuchs is powered by an Alfa/Mann 10-cylinder V-engine with twin turbochargers, installed around 1979/1980.

The original description states an output of approximately 1,700 HP at 750 rpm.

The vessel is fitted with a four-blade controllable-pitch propeller, operated from the wheelhouse.

The refit is under completion, the boat can be taken over at its current status as is where is. Ask for more information if you are interested.

EU VAT included. Offers invited!