Arksen 85 Review: A Modern Ark for the Modern Explorer

Some 4,395 years ago, Noah’s Ark weathered a global deluge; safeguarding its 8-person crew amidst the elements as well as providing sanctuary upon the high seas. Thanks to its integrity, that resinous timber-clad vessel earned the distinction of becoming the first ‘lifeboat’ and quite literally, proved to be an answer to a prayer…

In 2025, the term ‘ark’ finds itself associated with a whole new form of vessel and rather than its bowels being filled with fodder, its belly beats to a different tune, courtesy of a pair of 350hp Scania engines that enable a jaw-dropping, 7000-mile range. An answer to a prayer? Undoubtedly, for those mariners at least, who desire to ‘power’ their way across the vast and mighty ocean. Purpose-built for marine exploration, with sustainability at its core, the Arksen 85 is a true seaborne expedition platform. Just for you then, dear reader, PBR took up the invitation to seatrial ‘hull number two’, the second Arksen 85 built thus far, heading to the Greek coast of Pylos, in the sunny Peloponnese.

As I was to discover, Arksen founder, Jasper Smith, isn’t merely a builder of boats, on the contrary, he’s a man with a mission. For his passion is to craft an entire lifestyle brand for the modern adventurer. Furthermore, buying into Arksen means more than owning an innovative vessel alone. Rather, it means gaining access to curated expeditions, purpose-driven vehicles, sustainable apparel, and a broader philosophy centred on ecological responsibility.

At first glance, the Arksen 85 demands attention. Made from unpainted recycled aluminium, its utilitarian aesthetic is unapologetically functional and undeniably striking. Every rivet, weld and seam is visible, lending it the aura of a military-grade workhorse, a ‘naval frigate’ among pleasure boats.

Aluminium isn’t just about looks. Its benefits include minimal maintenance, natural resistance to corrosion, and customisability. If, as in the case of this first 85, the owner desires an additional shade on the stern deck, then Arksen simply design and weld a new aluminium frame and sun cover. Which, as can be evidenced from our test, blends seamlessly with the rest of the ship’s structure.

The Arksen 85’s silhouette makes its intentions clear: this boat was born for adventure. Vertical sheers to the bow and windscreens, smaller hull-side windows/portholes, and two prominent booms aft, all add to its expedition-ready image. The exterior is also accented by an industrial-grade rubber fender for impact diffusion, which in turn doubles as an appealing design feature. Everything is deliberate; nothing is purely ‘ornamental’. Indeed, Arksen’s philosophy is reminiscent of the late, great, William Morris; whose design ethos proposed, ‘form and function’ were inseparable bedfellows – neither should be brought to bear without the other.

Safety too is paramount aboard the Arksen 85. The 12mm aluminium hull below the waterline (8mm above) really does offer exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. Every compartment includes two means of egress and commercial-grade watertight doors. The boat is fitted with dual 8-person life rafts, toughened 1-inch-thick glass, and total engineering redundancy from the twin Scania diesel engines to power generation and propulsion backups.

Built to commercial MGN 280 standards and certified under the UK MCA Workboat Code Category 0, the Arksen 85 is suitable for any ocean voyage. With generous fuel and water storage, twin water-makers, and cold storage, it’s ready for extended off-grid exploration.

And if the worst happened, the Arksen has 180-degree positive stability.

With its deep-V hull, shallow transom, narrow bow, and wide beam, the Arksen 85 is built for smooth passages. Fin stabilisers reduce roll in rough seas, while the Humphree interceptor trim system allows fine-tuning of trim based on conditions. Then we have the ‘Flopper stoppers’, hinged stainless steel plates that hang off the booms and open flat in the water can, whilst at anchor, reduce roll by up to 60%, entirely without power. Gyroscopic stabilisation is also available as an option.

Fuel Efficiency: Range Meets Sustainability

Few vessels in its class can travel 7,000 nautical miles without refuelling. Thanks to a 17,500-litre fuel tank and a low-displacement hull optimised for reduced drag, the Arksen 85 ‘sips’ a mere 25 litres of fuel per hour at its sweet spot of 9 knots.

Solar panels feed into a battery bank, that helps offset energy needs for the onboard systems. A hybrid propulsion option allows silent, emissions-free operation in sensitive environments.

As we alluded to earlier, each Arksen 85 can be customised to suit the owner’s needs. This particular model sleeps 12 across three decks. The owner’s suite includes an en-suite bathroom with the option of a steam room, a welcome luxury after a day in polar climates. Two guest cabins convert from double to twin beds, while crew quarters are designed with equal attention to detail. Practical design features include direct engine room access from the captain’s cabin, and forepeak access from one of the crew cabins. Generous wardrobe space is provided throughout, and all cabins benefit from private en-suite facilities.

Despite its utilitarian brief, the Arksen 85 offers surprising warmth and comfort. The interior blends functionality with a Scandi-chic aesthetic: light wood finishes, plush neutral carpets, and a refreshing palette of sea-inspired colours. From the owners’ suite to the crew quarters, the design consistency is impressive – no corners cut, no second-rate materials.

The curved staircase leading to the main deck is more sculpture than structure, with wood slats and ample headroom. A lounge-diner features a comfortable L-shaped sofa with ottoman, a retractable TV, and a panoramic window offering uninterrupted views. A cleverly concealable second helm station offers full control in a more social setting.

In my view, the galley is a perfect size, outfitted with Miele Professional appliances, including a full-size fridge. Adjacent is a snug diner booth.

A half-glazed pocket door leads to the aft deck, maintaining climate control in the salon while offering quick access to the day head and shower – perfect for guests returning from a swim or tender trip.

The bridge-deck houses dual helm rotatable chairs facing four 19″ integrated touch screens, and again that wonderful view beyond the panoramic windscreen. They were, as one would expect, very comfortable, with pleasant squishy arm rests. You can either stand and lean or sit and use the adjustable footrest. The windscreen includes heating and wipers, while two chunky watertight side doors add security and convenience.

There’s a navigation desk too, with Admiralty chart storage, a convertible lounge-diner, a hot tap sink and ample storage and seating.

The main aft deck doubles as a working platform, equipped with booms for tender launching or even container storage. Storage is abundant, and thoughtfully integrated – from under-sun bed compartments and large utility lockers to both closed and open sections for ease of access (i.e mooring lines), built into the full-width gunwales, and all secured with heavy-duty clasps for reliability in demanding conditions.

Despite its utilitarian capability, the Arksen 85 offers plenty of space to unwind. A spacious sun bed at the bow on the main deck and a beautifully curved sofa on the top deck – mirroring the lines of the bridge, both provide a perfect spot for lounging. Both upper and main aft decks feature large dining tables, creating inviting settings for al-fresco meals.

TreadMaster non-slip decking provides excellent grip without compromising too greatly on aesthetics.

At the stern, the swim platform sits just inches above the waterline, ensuring easy access to the sea via a robust boarding ladder.

The Lazarette accessible from the swim platform and the engine room, houses, amongst other items; a dive compressor, dive bottle store, Miele marine-grade laundry facilities, and a dedicated workshop area – underscoring the vessel’s blend of utility and innovation.

Powered by twin 350hp Scania engines, the Arksen 85 cruises comfortably at 9 to 10 knots and tops out at nearly 14. The controls were a joy – the 5cm steering wheel – almost lost in the abundance of dials and switches on the helm was a tactile and haptic delight, as you easily rotated it back to dead- ahead. Despite its size, the vessel is nimble. At full rudder, she nearly turns within her own length. Sound levels remained whisper-quiet throughout our trial – early 50 decibel level at cruising speed.

Docking is simplified via three external helm stations around the vessel – midway port and starboard and stern. With a mere 1.4-metre draft, the Arksen 85 tucks into shallow coves with ease. This latter attribute is well-aligned to the vessel’s exploration ideals.

The engine room is immaculate, organised, and, with a raised square ‘walkway’ everything is accessible. Dual systems that include, water-makers, chiller units, hot water systems, sea chests, generators, pumps etc…Anyway, you get the idea, the design criteria is all about resilience and self-reliance. The adjacent lithium battery room, climate-controlled and solar-powered, further enhances off-grid capability.

The Arksen 85 is more than a luxury explorer motoryacht. It’s a statement of intent. Whether drawn by its design, engineering, or environmental ethos, owners are buying into a philosophy. You can find greater luxury elsewhere for the price, but maybe not the Arksen’s seagoing capability or its vast range.

For those seeking to redefine adventure, Arksen delivers. I may not be an explorer, yet, but after a day aboard the 85, I know which boat I’d take if I ever decide to become one.

RPM                         Speed                                Fuel Flow [l/ph]             Db