We are pleased to reveal the first look at the interior of the inaugural vessel in build, the Arksen 85. The interior is being created by the award-winning Design Unlimited team and we spoke to CEO, Mark Tucker, to give us a walkthrough and introduce us to the subtleties of the design.
We start the tour in the saloon on the main deck which is accessed through an enclosed entrance lobby that can be shut off to the elements when required. Once inside, the “un-interrupted sightlines throughout the saloon offer fantastic viewing of the surroundings and in this area, as with the upper deck, the joinery and layout has been designed to create minimal visual clutter and allow a connection throughout the length of the boat” describes Mark.
The saloon features dedicated and easily accessible AV, electrical and system solutions, as not only is the Arksen 85 designed to be beautiful, but when you are exploring the remotest corners of the globe you need everything to be functional.
We then turn aft to view the galley, which has optimised every inch of space with dedicated storage solutions for long distance cruising. “The galley comes complete with a 90cm hob and oven, combi oven, two freezers, two fridges, two dishwashers, recycling dry stores and equipment storage.” What else do you need to keep your intrepid band of explorers fuelled for their next adventure?
Next, we head below deck to view the main accommodation which continues the theme of large dedicated storage solutions throughout, from the deep under saloon seating lockers to hidden storage behind wardrobes. As well as deep storage pockets for books and personal items so to remain contained at sea and large storage volume under berths accessed by drawers and lift up mattresses.
Mark picks up the narration “On the lower deck, the starboard guest pullman cabin was designed to form a work station as the interiors need to be as flexible as possible to allow for the different people who will be joining the ventures of this boat through the work of Arksen Foundation.”
The large separate laundry area, not normally seen on an 85ft motor yacht, with double-stacked professional washing machine and separate tumble dryer, ironing space and workshop that also conceals an extra single crew berth. This space also allows for the potential of scientists, researchers or media personnel who could be joining the owner, or simply satisfy the needs of an adventuring family.
The master cabin is also a multi-function suite that incorporates sleeping, a study/AV room, extra sea berth and an en-suite shower and steam room. “All spaces within the master suite can be opened up with sliding doors, allowing for free movement between areas and giving a large open plan feel which is not often seen on an 85ft motor yacht.” Mark continues. “The flybridge has also been designed with clever use of space in mind and incorporates a multi-function converting sofa to be used as a dining area, coffee table or large daybed.”
It’s not just the design which has been carefully thought out but also the choice of the materials used. The team at Design Unlimited have gone to great lengths to source the most durable and environmentally friendly products and fabrics to fit out this eco-conscious vessel.
Take the rugs, cushions and throws shown above, these have all been created using recycled plastic bottles from Weaver Green. Also, the Lisbon Fabrics chosen are innovative, recycled cotton rich weaves, woven in Italy from yarns recycled from the fashion industry. This is just a couple of examples of the subtle, sustainable touches throughout the Arksen interior styling.
From cork walls, reclaimed wooden panels and surfaces made from recycled post-industrial plastics (Durat), 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, can we achieve the goal of building Exceptional Explorer Vessels.
Discover the full range of Arksen Explorer Vessels here.