Archipelago Expedition Yachts has just unveiled a new 24.4-metre model that, once delivered, will be the flagship of the British shipyard's range of casual adventures. Simply named the "Archipelago 80", this catamaran expedition yacht will take sailors on a journey into uncharted and uncharted waters in style.
According to founder Stephen Weatherley, the first Archipelago 80 was built for a visionary owner who shared our passion for pushing the boundaries of yachting technology. The expedition yacht will be used privately by the owner in the form of a multihull from the acclaimed Chartwell Marine, widely used in the offshore wind industry, which is more stable than a traditional monohull. The Archipelago 80 is designed to be an all-powerful, omnipresent expedition capable of autonomous operations.
Considering its large size, the yacht has a fairly spacious exterior deck, which provides plenty of room for sailors to move. The aft cockpit is even more distinctive, with a spacious 'work area' equipped with anchor points for adventure gear or superyacht toys. The knuckle boom crane and reinforced deck structure can easily transport a 6-meter ISO container, a private submersible, an amphibious vehicle and a variety of heavy equipment. Alternatively, it can be freely used for leisure activities, whether it's fun fishing or other marine recreation, allowing you to enjoy the sea to the fullest.
The highlight is the helipad at the top, a unique and luxurious option that offers the owner an extraordinary journey across the sea and coast. The Grape Bridge not only adds an extra layer of security, but also cleverly blends practicality and beauty. If you want to generate additional green energy, the top area can also be fitted with solar panels, or additional storage space provided by a knuckle boom crane crane.
For added safety, high bulwarks enclose both sides to ensure the safety of guests and crew, and an optional davit crane is ready to lift a RIB, jet ski or similar equipment when moving towards the bow. Make your marine entertainment more colorful. In addition, you can choose to have a hot tub cleverly integrated into the hull structure to enjoy your time at sea.
Inside, the "Archipelago 80" presents a spacious open salon with a bar and day kitchen with panoramic views while relaxing or dining on board. Inside, a range of customisable cabins are available for guests and crew, complemented by a master galley and a combined laundry or work area, which can be accessed from the living area or cockpit. The wheelhouse serves as an adaptable living space, with a bar and entertainment area on the balcony.
Weatherley added: "This model represents the ultimate versatility for private use and operator platforms below 24 meters, and is a reflection of our commitment to delivering an exceptional experience on the water." "I am thrilled to see this project move from blueprint to reality and look forward to seeing our clients embark on an unforgettable adventure at sea in the future."
The "Archipelago 80" will be powered by an advanced diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system, which can easily reach a top speed of 28-30 knots, and in order to reduce fuel consumption and perhaps even increase speed, a parachute kite can be deployed, while an optional generator will provide an additional 180 kW of electricity to the yacht.
With a fuel capacity of up to 20,000 litres and a payload capacity of an astonishing 16 tonnes, the 80 model is ready for any challenge. Whether it's sophisticated equipment, practical tools, or luxury superyacht toys, this boat can handle it with ease and provide explorers with an unparalleled adventure experience.
Earlier this year, the company was selected as one of 33 successful applicants for £33 million in government funding. This award will give Archipelago a key boost to the development of a revolutionary new methanol-powered leisure yacht, the Archipelago zero.63, the design of which was announced at the end of 2023.
By the end of April, under the careful layout and unremitting promotion of crowdfunding platform Crowdcube, Archipelago has completed a fundraising feat that exceeds expectations. In just 20 days, the company successfully raised a whopping £236,996 in fundraising, which not only met the target, but also exceeded the original fundraising plan of £150,000 with an astonishing 157% oversubscription rate.
It is worth mentioning that during the financing process, Archipelago has always been active in conveying its strong commitment to sustainable development to its investors. They are committed to the ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2040. This commitment is reflected not only in the extensive use of all of the company's hybrid yachts, but also in their innovative and groundbreaking methanol-powered Archipelago zero.63 project. They practice the concept of environmental protection with practical actions and contribute to the sustainable development of marine ecology.
Technical Parameters:
Technical Specifications
Total length - 24 meters
Breadth: 11 meters
Maximum speed: 30 knots
Propulsion system: 2Xe-Motion diesel-electric hybrid system with 1300 hp MAN diesel engine and 250 kW electric propulsion
Optional generator: 180kW
Battery: 150 kWh type approved battery