The eighth hull in the Arcadia Yachts 85 range has recently made its debut in the US in it’s US specific edition. The 26 metre semi planing superyacht boasts excellent utilisation of every single available internal and external space on board through the linear design of the superstructure and the vertical line of the bow. As a result, the living capacity is wider than many yachts of the same size. Another unique feature on board the Arcadia 85 is the integration of solar panels with navigation performance, further establishing the Italian Arcadia shipyard as one of the most environmentally friendly dedicated shipyards in the industry.
Exploring the use of solar panels on board further, the Arcadia 85 US Edition is fitted with a total of 40sqm of photovoltaic panels, each composed of hundreds of high performance solar cells. Energy for everyday essential amenities on board such as the bathroom facilities, the refrigeration and the lights is extracted from the solar panels, leaving a smaller carbon footprint and establishing the yacht’s focus on green innovations. Although the aesthetics of solar panels is difficult to incorporate into the design of a luxury superyacht, Arcadia have successfully managed to establish the panels as part of the yacht in a way that adds to the unique look and feel of the entire vessel.
Another attribute to the unique characteristics of the Arcadia 85 is her deckhouse, which has been constructed almost entirely out of double layered reflecting glass. Not only does this create an edgy yet chic look, but gives the interiors a light, bright and airy feel. The harmonious blend between the indoor and outdoor areas on board is present throughout, and this area is no different. The sliding over-head and lateral blinds are able to provide privacy and shade as and when required by the owner and their guests once in port or in a bay, allowing total control over the environment.
Designed as a yacht with a focus on family her interior spaces, as with her exterior functions, have been designed in order to provide guests with space to enjoy together. Inside is an open plan layout, giving the impression of a totally open space. The feeling of space is heightened with the addition of the floor to ceiling windows that are found throughout, not only extending the sense of space on board, but also inundating the living areas with natural light and spectacular views, creating a natural and welcoming ambiance.
In terms of her accommodation, the four cabins on board are all located on the lower deck. The spectacular owner’s cabin is found amidships, and is remarkably spacious for a yacht of this size. The space features a plush, large bed, lounge chairs and opulent en suite facilities. The large VIP cabin is located forward, and comes with a large double bed and plenty of storage, whilst the remaining two cabins are twin cabins. Four crew are also accommodated for on board, with spacious accommodation found in the bow of the vessel which can be easily accessed through the wheelhouse.
The intimate main saloon provides space for up to eight guests. The justification for the noticeably smaller area is the well protected aft deck area, offering guests the opportunity to spend more time enjoying the outdoors without braving the elements at the same time.
Throughout the interiors modern furniture by several well known Made in Italy design brands are found, including Poltrone Frau, Cassina and Schiffini. Almost all the interiors are composed of loose pieces of furniture, therefore giving owners the option of modular layouts. Elsewhere inside the tender garage easily fits a four metre tender as well as a two seater jet ski.
The aforementioned aft deck is a particularly impressive area on the yacht, measuring 8.5 metres in length. This area has been specifically designed as a living space for guests, and includes a well protected cockpit which is an ideal setting for dining, as well as a large sunbathing area at the stern of the yacht and ample, comfortable seating and lounging spaces.
The US Edition of the Arcadia 85 differs from the original MED version of the vessel in several different ways, though many aspects remain the same. In terms of technical differences, the US Edition of the vessel includes generators enhanced to support a more powerful air conditioning system; a powered air conditioning system; an increase in the insulation in order to improve the onboard comfort according to a warmer and more humid climate, and finally, the electrical system conforms to US standards. In regards to design and layout aspects of the yacht, comparable differences include the interiors and exteriors solutions being adapted to the needs of the US market; an open-spaced galley designed by Schiffini in the dining area of the main salon (a special request from the US market); a VIP cabin with a dressing area, and a washing machine/dryer cabinet located in the guest cabins corridor.
In terms of notable design and composition features, the hull of the Arcadia 85 is built in gel coat and reinforced fiberglass with vinylester resin for the three external layers. Her sides are built in PVC sandwich with fiberglass. This particular structure makes the yacht considerably light and durable for its size. The advanced semi-planing hull which allows efficient performances together with the very light superstructure in aluminum significantly reduces weight and fuel consumption and related running costs of its low-power engines.
Powered by twin MAN diesel engines of R6-730hp each ( additional optional engines are 2xMAN 800hp), she has a maximum speed of 18.5 knots. She has the ability to comfortably cruise at a speed of 16.5 knots as well as 12 knots, the latter giving her a range of 850 nm in total.