Arksen Begins Construction of Eco-Conscious Explorer

The Arksen 85 ‘Project Ocean’ is the flagship of the Arksen Explorer Series, which includes two other models (Arksen 60 & 75) and will soon expand into larger categories.

Arksen was founded with a mission to “create the world’s largest purpose-built private marine research fleet” and to “inspire a new generation of explorer, sailor, adventurer and scientist”. The quick momentum that the company has gained, and the production of its first superyacht, is promising for future sustainable yachting. Along with its Explorer Vessels, Arksen also encompasses the Arksen Foundation and the Arksen Explorers’ Club.

The Explorer Series combines performance and functionality to take guests further than ever before, all in indulgent luxury. These robust, reliable and efficient vessels give Owners the confidence to take on new adventures and embrace the spirit of exploration.

Project Ocean accommodates up to 12 guests in four cabins, including a full beam master suite which will be complete with a multi-purpose library, study and media room. Project Ocean will reach a top speed of 14 knots and cruise comfortably and efficiently at 9-11 knots, while she will also reach an impressive range of up to 7,000nm. Her efficient engineering system comprises of a full hybrid propulsion package and energy management system supplied by Praxis Automation Technology, and up to 7kW of zero-carbon electrical power is generated by the yacht’s onboard solar installations.

Arksen has worked in collaboration with leading British design and marine firms to bring this project to life. The exterior design and naval architecture have been penned by Humphreys Yacht Design, with Chartwell Marine completing the structural engineering to meet the high levels of additional robustness and efficiency required for a long-range explorer. Construction of the first Arksen 85 is underway at the Wight Shipyard Company in the Isle of Wight.

Circular economy principles have been adopted throughout the superyacht, from designing out waste and keeping materials in use to minimising carbon footprint and resource efficiency. The values of sustainability, innovation and adventure on which Arksen was founded are clearly visible in this first project.

“Arksen’s dedication to researching and understanding our impact on the environment will be invaluable in helping to re-shape the development of leisure-vessel production in the motor yacht sector,” said Tom Humphreys, Co-Director of Humphreys Yacht Design.

“The efficient design, sustainable technologies and long-range capabilities of the Arksen fleet are more important than ever today. We think it’s very exciting, the right product at the right time,” continued Humphreys.

Norwegian company Hydro has supplied Arksen 85’s highly-efficient aluminium hull and superstructure, which contains recycled materials. The hull will allow the superyacht to reduce its fuel consumption, allowing it to run on lower emissions and at a lower cost.

The superyacht will boast an opulent interior befitting of a luxury vessel, courtesy of the work of renowned studio Design Unlimited. The interior design uses a wide range of sustainable materials, many of which coming from recycled sources, with recycled plastic bottles used even in the soft furnishings. “The Design Unlimited studio have created an interior that is dynamic, functional, attractive and sustainable in both the materials used and in its on-going functionality and versatility of use.” 

Project Ocean has an expected 18-month build schedule before her planned sea trials in spring 2022. A large part of her sea time will be dedicated to helping the Arksen Foundation in its endeavours to facilitate cutting-edge scientific research for the conservation of our oceans. Founder of Arksen and Technology Entrepreneur, Jasper Smith, said: “We have been working closely with all our partners to design and build a vessel to be the best in class in efficiency and fuel economy and have gained a comprehensive understanding on the procurement process and supply chain for all the components that we will use throughout.

“To have the first Arksen 85 vessel in production is a big milestone in our journey and we look forward to having our first boat on the water in the near future.”

It is exciting to see so many companies collaborating on a project with such a strong emphasis on sustainability. Arksen heralds a new era for eco-conscious yachting and we look forward to tracking the progress of Project Ocean and many other to come.