In an innovative departure from the typical brokerage pitch, Steve Reoch of All Ocean Yachts is offering the 175-foot (53.3-meter) research/expedition vessel Proteus for sale with a conversion proposal conceived by noted designer Sergio Cutolo of Hydro Tec. The project, dubbed Proteus II, proposes to turn the research vessel into a long-range luxury explorer. “It has gotten serious attention so far,” says Reoch, who will display the steel-hulled Proteus at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show’s Las Olas docks (with a submarine and helicopter on board). Proteus was built in 1977 by RYSCO Florida as an offshore supply vessel. In 2005, Stabbert Maritime converted her into an ABS-class oceanographic research vessel and expedition yacht. Proteus underwent an extensive technical refit in 2009 that expanded her capability for extended voyages. She currently accommodates up to 19 scientists/guests and 16 crew, features private owner’s areas and has an ABS-rated helipad. Proteus’ listing price is $3.25 million.

Cutolo’s Proteus II conversion project incorporates a six-stateroom layout with a 910-square foot (85-square meter) master suite with sweeping, 270-degree views. To cater to the owner’s desire for offshore adventure, it includes a garage configured to house a three-person Triton 3300/3 submarine, 30-foot (9.1-meter) tender, four personal watercraft along with other water toys and a full dive center.

For more information, contact Steve Reoch at [email protected], call 305-216-8682 or visit alloceanyachts.com