In 2017, Pacific Asian Enterprises (PAE) expanded their Nordhavn line with the addition of the Nordhavn 96. Being well received by the exploration yacht community, the Nordhavn 96 won the 2017 International Yacht and Aviation Award. This new design bridged the gap between the large cruising exploration yacht and super-yacht categories. She was designed for the yachting enthusiast who seeks the super-yacht comfort and style in a boat that is still able to be managed with no or minimal crew, and travel big open oceans. The 96 series is based on the hull of the very successful Nordhavn 86, while incorporating a larger cockpit, lazarette, and better crew space below deck. The greater volume is also felt on the main deck level, in the dining and galley areas, and on the pilothouse deck with a large upper master stateroom. The greater length also allows for a more spacious fly bridge with hot tub. Lacey Kay was built by her current owner, making frequent trips to the yard during the build process. He opted for the additional fuel tanks, giving her an aggregate capacity of 9,575 gallons. With her increased waterline hull length, her fuel burn was actually slightly reduced from the 86. At her most efficient cruise speed of 9 knots, she burns about 10 gallons per hour per side, plus 5 gallons for the house generator, giving her an approximate 4,000 NM range; well enough for a Pacific crossing. According to Jeff Leishman, PAE's Chief of Design, extending her hull length has allowed Nordhavn to enhance the performance of, and increase stability and comfort in this well-proven hull design.