Photo: Archipelago Yachts
Founded in 2021, Archipelago Expedition Yachts is a relatively new player in the shipbuilding world, but the British yacht builder has already garnered the attention of the European maritime industry with its forward-thinking catamaran designs focused on performance, sustainability, and accessibility.
According to Archipelago Yachts’ founder Dr. Stephen Weatherley, the first hull is being built for a discerning yachtsman and marks an important milestone for the yard, as it is the largest leisure vessel in its lineup.
“The Archipelago 80 represents ultimate versatility in a sub-24m owner-operator platform and the embodiment of our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences on the water. The vessel was designed for a visionary owner who shares our passion for pushing the boundaries of boating,” Wehtherley said. “I am very excited to see this project come to life and welcome the customer onboard for some unforgettable journeys at sea.”
Built upon a tried-and-true Chartwell Marine multihull that has been used extensively in the offshore wind industry before, the Archipelago 80 is touted as a reliable, ocean-capable motor catamaran that can offer more stability than the traditional monohull. Its notably shallow one-meter (3.2-foot) draft makes it suitable for coastal and reef exploration. Moreover, the yacht is tailored for owner-operated voyages and designed from the outset as a hybrid yacht that yields a lower carbon footprint for sustainable adventure. It thus blends innovation with easy functionality.
Photo: Archipelago Yachts
On the outside, it boasts a sleek aesthetic characterized by simplicity, with one of the most notable features being the hard roof that doubles as a high-capacity helipad for complete flexibility, as it can allow you to spend more time on board and provides a convenient way to explore uncharted territory. Usually, helipads are found on yachts upwards of 148 feet (45 meters), so having one on a model in this size bracket is quite a luxury.
Interestingly, the spacious roof area can also be fitted with solar panels, highlighting its environmentally friendly design, or used as extra storage for water toys, facilitated by a Palfinger knuckle boom crane.
Another highlight of this innovative cat is an expansive “working area” located on the cockpit, which can be dedicated to various leisurely activities like sunbathing, lounging, or game fishing. But since it comes equipped with tie-down points, it can also be used for safely storing additional expedition gear or superyacht toys. The area is vast enough to fit a six-meter ISO container, a personal submersible, an amphibious vehicle, and other heavy-duty equipment. With high bulwarks flanking the sides of the cockpit area, those on board are kept safe during navigation.
The yacht’s bow area is also designed with versatility in mind. There is an optional davit-style crane that can be used to lift and lower RIBs, jet skis, or similar equipment. Alternatively, the company offers the option to integrate a Jacuzzi into the structure, so with the addition of some sun pads, the future owner can use the bow area for soaking in the tub and sunbathing.
Photo: Archipelago Yachts
For the catamaran’s interiors, the company offers a selection of high-quality finishes that create a space exuding sophistication and style. With a beam of 11 meters (36 feet), Archipelago 80 reveals a spacious interior that can accommodate up to 12 guests, which makes it suited for exploration journeys with family and friends. The layout is customizable based on the future owner’s needs and preferences, but the wheelhouse will surely serve as an adaptable living space with a bar and an entertaining area on the shaded balcony. This is basically the social hub of the cat, allowing guests to relax, socialize, and admire the panoramic views of the surrounding ocean.
An open-plan saloon with a bar and day galley also offers guests onboard unobstructed views, and a combined laundry or workspace accessible from either the living quarters or the cockpit can also be found within the hulls.
As mentioned before, the Archipelago 80 exploration catamaran will feature a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system. It will comprise twin 1300 hp MAN diesels and 250kW electric propulsors, which will enable the vessel to reach top speeds of 28-30 knots (32-33 mph) at full tilt. An optional generator will provide even more electrical power, and the addition of a paravane kite will further enhance fuel efficiency.
With a fuel capacity of up to 20,000 liters (5,280 gallons) and a payload capacity of 16 tonnes, the 80 is well equipped to travel long distances with ease and sets new standards for the yachting industry’s exploration segment. Moreover, it offers a balanced mix of speed/agility and comfort. Once delivered, Archipelago 80 will become the flagship of the British yacht builder’s leisure expedition range.
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