UPDATE, MARCH 19, 2021: Project Ocean has sold to a client. Delivery is still set for 2022. The owner intends to cruise the world, starting with a maiden voyage in Norway and eventually heading through the Northwest Passage and to Antarctica. Additionally, the owner will make the megayacht available for conservation and research work. A second hull will start on spec next month, with a third to follow later this year.
Read on for our original article.
In 2019, Arksen introduced itself in the yachting industry to push the boundaries of exploration. Focused on three principles, namely explorer yachts, a non-profit supporting ocean research and conservation, and an explorers’ club, the company has its first yacht, Project Ocean, in build. She’s the flagship of the Arksen Explorer Series, an Arksen 85.
With the far corners of the globe in mind, Project Ocean bears naval architecture and styling by Humphreys Yacht Design. Chartwell Marine collaborated with the studio for structural engineering. Arksen claims stability will exceed MCA requirements, too. Her hybrid propulsion package, meanwhile, should permit up to a 7,000-nautical-mile range at efficient cruising between 9 and 11 knots. Top speed, meanwhile, should be 14 knots. Lessening her reliance on diesel gensets, the megayacht also has solar panels for electricity, plus waste-heat-reclamation systems for ventilation and other systems.
Construction is taking place at Wight Shipyard Company on the Isle of Wight. The facility dates back to 2010, as Shemara Refit, created to manage the restoration of Shemara, the famed classic yacht from 1938. In 2016, it rebranded as Wight Shipyard Company, reflecting its broader experience with fast ferries, other commercial projects, and military craft.
More notable, Project Ocean fits in with Arksen’s belief in a circular economy, a.k.a. sustainability. For instance, the construction materials are recycled. Specifically, the aluminum for the hull and superstructure contain repurposed metal. Additionally, Arksen emphasizes that all its yachts can follow a similar path at the end of their days on the water. Upon delivery, the megayacht will devote significant time to the Arksen Foundation marine-research initiative. The non-profit organization connects yacht owners with marine scientists and researchers. All Arksen customers are encouraged to donate at least 10 percent of their yachts’ time to these needs through the foundation.
Design Unlimited is striving for an eco-conscious yacht interior as well, employing recycled and other sustainable materials. In fact, the studio is selecting fabrics using recycled plastic bottles. Furthermore, to address the practical needs of ocean adventures and long-at-sea operations, the design team is incorporating more abundant stowage, including bigger pantries. Accommodations-wise, Project Ocean will have four staterooms for up to 12 adventurous souls. These include a full-beam master suite with a multi-purpose room. It can serve as a library, study, media room, or children’s cabin.
Project Ocean should take 18 months to build. Therefore, sea trials should occur in early 2022.
Arksen arksen.com
Design Unlimited designunlimited.net
Humphreys Yacht Design humphreysdesign.com
Wight Shipyard Company wightshipyard.com
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