Less than two years ago, U.K.-based boatbuilder Arksen unveiled a vision to accommodate growing demand for sustainable oceangoing adventure. Today, Arksen is on the precipice of its largest hull to date. Construction has begun at Wight Shipyard Company in the U.K. on an 85-footer the builder calls Project Ocean.
Project Ocean will accommodate up to 12 guests in four staterooms, including a full-beam master with an adjoining multipurpose room that can be used as a library, study, media room or children’s cabin.
Sporting a hybrid propulsion package and an energy management system by Praxis Automation Technology, Project Ocean is expected to have a cruising speed of 9 to 11 knots, a top speed of 14 knots and a maximum range of 7,000 nautical miles. Solar capacity will offer up to 7 kilowatts of zero-carbon electrical power, and heating and ventilation systems will use thermal reclamation for improved efficiency.
The Arksen 85 is designed for stability in excess of MCA requirements for unlimited operation, with 180 degrees of positive stability in cruising trim, according to the builder. Exterior design and naval architecture are by Humphreys Yacht Design, with structural engineering by Chartwell Marine.
Project Ocean’s engineering emphasizes sustainable boating with circular economy principles prevalent in the build, from designing out waste to minimizing carbon footprint and maximizing resource efficiency.
The Arksen 85’s aluminum hull and superstructure contain recycled material and can again be recycled at the end of the vessel’s life. The interior by Design Unlimited will use a range of sustainable materials, including many from recycled sources. The soft furnishings will employ fabrics created using recycled plastic bottles.
All Arksen vessels are designed with marine research in mind. Through the Arksen Foundation—a platform that lets marine scientists use specialized yachts to conduct research and conservation projects—owners may pledge 10 percent of a vessel’s sea time to ocean exploration and marine ecosystem research.
Arksen expects an 18-month build time, with sea trials on the 85 planned for spring 2022.
