Arksen is a new name in luxury sailing. Announced in January at the Düsseldorf Yacht Show, it promises to be much more than your average super-yachting business. Founder, the entrepreneur Jasper Smith, is asking Arksen owners to dedicate 10% of their vessels’ time to support research and conservation projects supported by the Arksen foundation, such as scientific research or film-making.
"Superyachts generally conjure up the idea of extravagant - elitist vessels built in ways that don’t necessarily have any benefit other than satisfying the voyeuristic. We are challenging this. We build vessels that are robust, highly efficient, sustainable and designed to minimize maintenance. I don’t see Arksen as a superyacht company at all. We take a much wider view than most boat brands. By running the “Arksen Foundation” we offer owners access to curated marine research and media projects conducted on the vessels, whilst the “Arksen Explorers’ Club” offers adventure and explorer trips for our community, providing powerful life experiences", explained Jasper Smith the Forbes in the interview.
Designed by Humphreys Yacht Design and built by the Wight Shipyard Company in Cowes, they will feature self-righting, aluminium hulls that can slip through the water at 7 knots using minimal power or push on to 14 knots when needed. Hybrid propulsion is optional but even with diesel, the 85 has a range of 6,000nm from its 16,000-litre tanks. Fins, gyros and flopper stoppers maintain stability while solar panels generate up to 4.2kw of power. Interiors by Design Unlimited are said to be stylish but also easily reconfigured from leisure to research or commercial use.
The 23 metre Arksen 70 is the smallest model of the fleet. It has a 6.25-metre beam, full beam master and can accommodate a total of eight guests on board.
The 26.2 metre Arksen 85 has a beam of 6.8 metres and can accommodate a total of 14 guests. At Boot Dusseldorf was known that the builder has already sold its first Arksen 85, which has begun construction at Wight Shipyard this April.
The biggest of the fleet, the 30 metre Arksen 100, has a beam of 7.05 metres and can accommodate 14 guests with crew accommodation located forward.
“Fusing performance and functionality with aesthetic appeal, while never losing sight of safety as the overarching consideration, is the design ethos that has driven all our work for Arksen”, said Rob and Tom Humphreys, chief designers, Humphreys Yacht Design.
The saloon of the inaugural vessel in build, the Arksen 85, features easily accessible AV, electrical and system solutions, as when you are exploring the remotest corners of the globe the crew need everything to be functional.
The galley comes complete with a 90cm hob and oven, combi oven, two freezers, two fridges, two dishwashers, recycling dry stores and equipment storage.
The master cabin is also a multi-function suite that incorporates sleeping, extra sea berth and an en-suite shower and steam room.
HYD achieves these performance targets for Arksen in the following way. First, Rob and Tom analyse seakeeping behaviour and performance data from their back catalogue of powerboat and fast displacement sailboat hull designs. A preliminary Arksen hull form is then developed and run through HYD’s in-house CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) programmes to assess the potential speed and power requirements.
After further refinement of the hull form Arksen model is subjected to a battery of tests which include all the vessel’s seakeeping behaviour. The behavioural findings and the quantitative data then feed back into the computer model to produce the final hull shape.
The ultimate aspect is the ability to recover from a 180-degree rollover. HYD has designed the Arksen vessels with this almost unique ability when they are transiting the more tempestuous regions of the globe.
From cork walls, reclaimed wooden panels and surfaces made from recycled post-industrial plastics to the flexible and multi-use interior design, the Arksen Series are a unique force in the marine sector. Only through partnering with industry-leading companies such as Design Unlimited, Wight Shipyard Co and Humphreys Yacht Design, it is possible to achieve the goal of building Exceptional Explorer Vessels.
Prices, as reported, start at £4.5million ex VAT for the Arksen 70 rising to £8.5m for the Arksen 10.
@Photos via Arksen
Revolution Marine Group has unveiled the Oceanwalker S60e, a 60-foot solar-electric power catamaran designed to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly luxury yachts. The vessel combines advanced sustainable technology with sophisticated design features.The S60e is equipped with twin 200 HP (150 kW) electric motors, enabling near-silent cruising with a top speed of 12 knots and an optimal cruising speed of 7-8 knots for maximum efficiency. The yacht features state-of-the-art lithium phosphate batteries and a 10 kW solar array, supporting emissions-free operation and extended periods at anchor with moderate use of onboard amenities.For longer voyages, the S60e is equipped with two 45 kW diesel generators, providing a cruising range of up to 800 nautical miles. The vessel includes all modern comforts such as air conditioning, electric cooking facilities, and laundry amenities.“Currently under construction at the Fujian Sky Walker shipyard in Zhangzhou, China, the Oceanwalker S60e is being crafted with meticulous attention to detail,” said Edward Sacks, CEO of Revolution Marine Group. “Our engineering experts are closely overseeing every stage of the build process to ensure the highest standards of quality, performance, and durability.”The first Oceanwalker S60e is scheduled for delivery in April 2026 to Club Ki’ama Bahamas, a private island enclave on Elizabeth Island near Great Exuma. Club Ki’ama Bahamas is the world’s first equity club to offer solar-powered oceanfront residences alongside a fleet of carbon-neutral solar yachts.“Club Ki’ama Bahamas is beyond excited to make the very first Oceanwalker S60e available to our owners,” said John Long, Managing Partner. “This elegant, fully electric, solar yacht perfectly complements our sustainably constructed, solar-powered Club residences.”Revolution Marine Group, headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with a European office in Vienna, Austria, specializes in technologically advanced, sustainable, and luxurious vessels. The company provides comprehensive services including new build management, brokerage, technical consultation, design, and charter advisory, representing Oceanwalker Yachts, Canados Heritage power catamarans, and CL Yachts (Europe/Turkey).Credits: Revolution Marine Group
June 9, 2025
The Pearl 82 has been awarded the prestigious title of Best Motor Yacht Under 25 Metres at the International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2025. The award ceremony took place on Friday, 6 June 2025, at the Hôtel de Paris in Monte Carlo, gathering prominent figures from the yachting and aviation industries.The 25-meter raised pilothouse yacht, designed by Dixon Yacht Design with interiors by Kelly Hoppen Interiors, features five en-suite staterooms including a main deck master, a spacious tender garage, and dedicated crew accommodation. The vessel has garnered attention for its innovative layout, refined aesthetics, and balance between performance and luxury.This award marks the third major recognition for the Pearl 82 since its launch at the Cannes Yachting Festival in 2024. Previously, the yacht received the Best Layout award in the 24m to 30m category at the World Yachts Trophies in September 2024 and won in the Flybridges over 60ft category at the Motor Boat Awards 2025 in Düsseldorf, Germany, in January 2025.“We are absolutely thrilled to receive this international recognition for the Pearl 82,” said Iain Smallridge, Managing Director of Pearl Yachts. “Winning three major awards in less than a year is a testament to the strength of our product and the creative collaboration between our design partners and in-house teams. It reflects our ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of yacht design in both aesthetics and functionality.”Paul Hannah, Production Director of Pearl Yachts, added: “At Pearl, we build a limited number of high-quality yachts each year. This allows us to truly focus on delivering innovative designs, maximising every space, and ensuring outstanding quality and attention to detail throughout the range. Recognition like this confirms the success of our approach.”Founded in 1998, Pearl Yachts has established itself as one of the UK’s leading shipyards, specializing in designing luxury motor yachts known for their voluminous interiors, opulence, and design excellence. Each Pearl yacht is crafted to exceptional standards using quality materials and skilled craftsmanship.The recent accolades further solidify the Pearl 82’s position as a benchmark in the sub-25-meter segment and reinforce Pearl Yachts’ reputation as a leader in boutique yacht building on the international stage.Credits: Pearl Yachts
June 9, 2025
The 65-meter classic yacht Lady Esther has been officially redelivered following an extensive three-year rebuild project at Damen Maaskant. The vessel was relaunched from the shipyard’s Stellendam site last year and is currently cruising off the eastern coast of Spain.The rebuild included significant modifications to the yacht’s structure and design. The vessel underwent a 10-meter extension, a reconfigured interior layout, and the addition of two glass-walled decks. A new Jacuzzi was also installed as part of the refurbishment.Exterior design changes were notable, with Vripack opting for a rigid, masculine design typical of explorer yachts. The Dutch studio was also responsible for the interior design, although specific details have not been disclosed.Originally named Hanse, the yacht was delivered in 1979 by the German shipyard Elsflether Werft AG. The original design was completed by Miami-based studio Luiz de Basto, with naval architecture by Alpha Marine. The vessel features accommodation across seven cabins, including a main deck master suite and a VIP cabin.The sundeck serves as the main social hub, originally equipped with a wet bar, Jacuzzi, sunpads, and gym equipment. While the full scope of the recent refit has not been fully detailed, it represents the latest in a series of rebuilds the yacht has undergone during its 45 years in service.The last major rebuild was completed in 2004 and included a 5.8-meter extension. The current refit marks another significant milestone in the vessel’s history, bringing modern updates while preserving its classic heritage.Credits: Yacht Harbour Archive
June 9, 2025
Heesen Yachts has delivered the 50-meter hybrid superyacht Orion (YN 20750), marking the Dutch shipyard's third delivery this year. The aluminum-hulled vessel completed successful sea trials in the North Sea before handover to its owner.Orion features Heesen's Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF) with hybrid propulsion, achieving silent electric cruising at 10 knots. The propulsion system combines two MTU 12V 2000 M61 (IMO III) engines with electric motors, reducing fuel consumption to 45 liters per hour in hybrid mode. The yacht offers a transatlantic range of 3,750 nautical miles at 12 knots (98 liters/hour) and reaches a top speed of 16.3 knots.Ruud vand der Stroom, Heesen CCO"The delivery of Orion is a moment of great pride for everyone at Heesen," said Ruud van der Stroom. "This yacht perfectly encapsulates our DNA: precise Dutch engineering, innovative hybrid technology, and the ability to deliver a high-quality product through dedicated collaboration."Designed by Omega Architects' Frank Laupman, Orion features a vertical bow and extensive glazing. The 499 GT interior by Cristiano Gatto incorporates 37 material varieties including Italian marble and woven leather. Accommodation includes six staterooms for twelve guests, with a main-deck owner's suite and full-beam VIP.Peter van der Zanden, General Manager Design & Development, Engineering and HeesenPeter van der Zanden, Heesen's Head of Engineering, noted: "Our expertise in lightweight aluminum construction, combined with the efficiency of the Fast Displacement Hull Form and hybrid system make ORION exceptional. This synergy reduces environmental impact while enhancing owner experience."Broker Anton Foord of Ocean Intelligence commented: "Orion offers an exceptional experience defined by performance, elegance, and technical innovation." The yacht will be available for Mediterranean charter this summer.Orion represents Heesen's continued focus on sustainable yachting solutions, following previous hybrid deliveries in its 50-meter series. The shipyard currently has five yachts under construction at its Oss facility, with scheduled deliveries through 2026.Heesen Yachts is a Dutch ship building company that specializes in custom-built superyachts in aluminum and steel from 30m to 70m in size. Founded in 1978, it has launched more than 170 yachts since its inception.Credits: Heesen Yachts
June 6, 2025
The judging process for the 2025 Honours awards has concluded in Amsterdam, with three recipients selected from 238 nominations. The winners will be announced at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) opening ceremony on October 28.Organized by The Superyacht Life Foundation in partnership with Pier 66 and FLIBS, the Honours recognize individuals making significant contributions to sustainability, innovation, and social impact within the superyacht industry. An 18-candidate shortlist was evaluated by a panel including Feadship's Farouk Nefzi, designer Espen Øino, Superyacht Times founder Merijn de Waard, and Royal Huisman's Jeroen Sirag.This year's judging panel included external perspectives from Ink Creative MD Jonny Clark and Untold Stories founder Nicola Chilton, who noted the breadth of industry initiatives beyond typical yachting activities."At its core, Superyacht Life is about celebrating the human stories that define our industry," said Dilan Sarac, Executive Director of The Superyacht Life Foundation. "Our 2025 Honourees embody the very best of what this industry can represent."The selection criteria focused on professional achievements, community engagement, philanthropy, and leadership. The three honourees were chosen unanimously following deliberations at Amsterdam's Royale Industrieele Groote Club.The October ceremony will mark the fourth edition of the awards, which aim to highlight positive contributions extending beyond traditional yachting circles. Previous honourees have been recognized for environmental initiatives, workforce development programs, and technological innovations benefiting broader maritime sectors.Credits: The Superyacht Life Foundation
June 6, 2025