Adventure company Arksen recently launched the first 85-foot vessel in its Explorer Series, Project Pelagos, from the Isle of Wight. The privately owned Arksen 85 hit the water ahead of her sea trials and handover to the client.
The Arksen 85 is an efficient, long-range expedition vessel capable of taking on global adventures or weekend cruising with family and friends. According to the builder, the 85 cruises at 9 to 12 knots, will hit a maximum speed of 14 knots, and has a 7,000-nautical-mile range at displacement speeds. Three staterooms, including a master and two VIPs that can accommodate up to five guests, are in addition to quarters for four crew.
Project Pelagos was designed with family life in mind. The vessel has the same efficient hull design and three-deck formation as the Arksen 85 that’s under construction now, and adds a customized interior. While the owner is keen to explore farther afield with friends, the yacht’s primary usage is family cruising in the Mediterranean. The interior has relaxed seating on the main deck, with an open-plan space and alfresco dining. A captain’s cabin replaces the standard snug.
The boat’s diesel-electric hybrid system includes three variable-speed generators that are matched to 250-kW electric motors and backed by a LiFePO4 battery bank. Her stabilization package is composed of Humphree fins and two Seakeeper gyros. Electronics arrays at both helms are from Furuno.
“The launch of this vessel comes at a very exciting stage of development for the company,” says Arksen Sales and Marketing Director Dominic Byrne. “This has already been a big year for us, and with new ownership models and additional products in the pipeline, we have not finished yet. We can’t wait to see the vessel off on her adventures and find out what marine science they can support as part of that journey.”
Earlier this year, Arksen expanded its range to include the Adventure Series, a smaller line of boats from 28 to 30 feet. The Adventure Series complements the larger vessels in the Explorer Series (a 65-footer, a 75-footer and the 85). There’s also Arksen Overland, which engineers and builds vehicles for exploring ashore. Most recently, the company launched Arksen Labs, a luxury apparel line with performance technology.
Arksen 85
LOA: 89ft. 6in. • Beam: 22ft. 6in. • Draft: 5ft. • Construction: aluminum • Displacement: 165,000 lbs. • Fuel: 4,755 gal. • Water: 1,585 gal. • Engine: 2x 330-hp Cummins QSL9 • Info: arksen.com
This article was originally published in the October 2023 issue.
