2023 Collector’s Edition Ocean Explorer: The 90th Anniversary Ship
The 2023 Collector’s Edition Ocean Explorer was a special limited-edition release commemorating the 90th Anniversary of the Hess Corporation’s founding (1933). This set is the third addition to the Collector’s Series and only the second boat (maritime vessel) ever produced as a full-size Hess toy.
Inspired by Hess’s offshore energy operations, this highly sophisticated set combines a ship and a helicopter, showcasing advanced features in both vehicles.
Ship and Turbo Helicopter Combination
The Ocean Explorer is a large, detailed explorer vessel designed to transport a motorized turbo engine helicopter. It features a stunning amount of lighting and an unprecedented array of sound effects.
Buy Now With
Key Features and Specifications
- Model: Explorer Ship with a Turbo Engine Helicopter accessory.
- Anniversary: Commemorates the 90th Anniversary of Hess Corporation (1933–2023).
- Explorer Ship Features (The Main Toy):
- Lights and Sounds: Features nearly 60 lights (a combination of red, white, and green) that work in flash or steady modes. It has an unprecedented five different sound effects: engine start, cruising, foghorn, and air horn, plus a motion-activated hydraulic sound for the helipad.
- Helipad: Features an elevating helipad with sound-activated motion and fold-down guardrails.
- Details: Includes rotating spotlights, an illuminated bridge, an illuminated commemorative 2023 license plate on the stern, and four free-rolling wheels on the underside (for land play).
- Accessory (Turbo Engine Helicopter):
- A sleek, turbo engine helicopter that fits on the helipad.
- Features 11 switch-activated lights, including super bright fixed spotlights.
- Motorized Rotors: Equipped with motorized top and rear rotors that operate in an always-on or push-button activated mode.
- Features retractable landing gear that fits the ship’s helipad.
- Packaging: Sold in a premium showcase display box that pictures a Hess offshore production facility and includes a digital Certificate of Authenticity available for download.
| Metric | Detail | Collectible Value (MIB, Reference) |
|---|---|---|
| Original Retail Price | $59.99 (batteries included and free standard shipping online). | N/A |
| Current Collectible Value | Mint condition, complete-in-box (MIB). As a limited-edition Collector’s Series piece, prices are typically high, especially once officially sold out. | $180 – $300+ |
| Rarity Note (Chrome Edition): | Some secondary market listings mention an ultra-rare “Chrome” version, which, if authentic, would be a corporate-exclusive and command significantly higher prices (into the thousands). | N/A |
Disclaimer
Hess®, Hess Toy Truck®, and related trademarks are the sole property of Hess Corporation. We do not claim any ownership rights or affiliation with the Hess Corporation. All historical pricing and collectible valuations are estimates for informational and reference purposes only and do not constitute a guarantee of current market value.
| Decade | 2020s |
|---|---|
| Model Type | Aircraft |
