Arksen has introduced the 17.3-metre Arksen 55 as a fast aluminium adventure yacht designed to operate well beyond conventional marina-to-marina cruising. The new model combines a target 350-nautical-mile range with a light-load sprint speed of 50 knots and accommodation options for four to eight people.
A smaller Arksen with a different pace
The 55 takes Arksen’s expedition-minded approach into a notably faster and more compact package than the company’s larger explorer yachts. Its double-stepped deep-V hull is intended to combine efficient higher-speed running with shallow-draft access to bays, islands and more remote landing points.
A functional bow shape is central to that brief because it incorporates a simple bow ramp for direct access between yacht and shore. Arksen has also concentrated on quick preparation and straightforward onboard systems, saying one person can ready the boat for departure within about ten minutes.
Aluminium construction and off-grid equipment
The hull, deck, superstructure and roof are specified in marine-grade aluminium, giving the yacht a repairable structure suited to hard use. Solar panels, battery systems and dry storage support longer periods away from shore facilities, while the technical spaces are arranged for accessible maintenance rather than hidden complexity.
Arksen lists a lightship displacement of 21 tonnes, a 4.7-metre beam and 3,200 litres of fuel capacity. The target range is 350 nautical miles at 25 to 30 knots, which positions the yacht as a fast coastal and regional explorer rather than a slow long-range displacement vessel.
Three propulsion routes
The standard First Edition specification uses four Yamaha F450 XTO outboards, while alternatives include triple Mercury V12 600 outboards or a triple Volvo Penta inboard arrangement. That choice lets owners prioritise packaging, service access and operating style without changing the core hull and accommodation concept.
Inside, the full-beam pilothouse brings navigation and dining onto the main deck, while several lower-deck layouts are available. The forward cabin has a double berth and private bathroom, and the aft accommodation can be configured to add further berths, crew space or utility functions.
First Editions start at £2.6 million
Arksen lists the fully specified First Editions price at £2.6 million and says later specifications will become available from 2027. First Edition boats also form part of the company’s ownership programme, which includes an initial period of Arksen Assured support and a guaranteed buy-back value written into the contract.
The design is by Jarkko Jämsén, with engineering by Arksen and Aivan and construction by Finnish commercial-boat specialist Kewatec. That combination underlines the yacht’s attempt to mix luxury accommodation with the more functional character of rescue, pilot and expedition craft.
For buyers in the 12-to-24-metre luxury-yacht market, the Arksen 55 adds a distinctive alternative to conventional flybridge and sports-cruiser layouts. Its appeal is built less around formal entertaining spaces and more around speed, equipment capacity, shore access and the ability to support active trips away from established cruising infrastructure.
