U.K.-based Archipelago Expedition Yachts, which launched in 2021, has teamed up with British naval architecture firm Chartwell Marine to create the Archipelago 47, a fuel-efficient, ocean-ready power catamaran with a range up to 3,000 nautical miles. Unlike some Class A vessels built for rough seas and gale-force winds, the new 47 is more than just a sturdy long-range yacht. It is also appointed with lavish touches of sleek, modernist luxury not usually found in catamarans of its size. The 47’s shallow draft of less than 3’ also gives it the ability to explore inlets and coastlines more closely than most offshore cruisers.
With room for up to eight people and highly customizable for three or four cabins, the all-aluminum cat features a wide, wooden cockpit deck with movable seating, including a sofa, table, and two deck chairs. Stairs on either side of the cockpit provide access to the wrap-around side decks and can be lifted up to reveal cavernous storage spaces for gear or watercraft underneath. Through the glass door to the interior is a comfortable salon with light-colored custom wood paneling, an L-shaped settee and ottoman to port, and a galley located aft to starboard. Appliances include a dishwasher, oven, microwave, ceramic cooktop, refrigerator, freezer, and fresh water-maker.
Farther forward is the minimalist helm station with Raymarine touch-screen controls, spaces where an iPad or laptop can be secured, if necessary, and an array of navigational equipment, such as a depth-sounder, radar, log-speedometer, bow thruster controls, a chartplotter, autopilot, GPS, and compass. The set-up resembles a classic work-boat arrangement, with overhead engine controls, a forward-facing windshield, and a wooden ship’s wheel.
The interior layout provides unobstructed, 360-degree views around the salon and helm areas, but also features blackout curtains that can be rolled down from the ceiling so the captain can see the controls more clearly while underway at night without disturbing other guests socializing in the salon. The ergonomically designed helm chair is also a striking visual from the rear, with a high, triangular-shaped headrest. The spacious hardtop above features operational sunroofs over the helm station, plus a large storage rack capable of handling several kayaks, paddleboards, bicycles, or small tenders. Optional solar panels can also be secured to the roof to provide some power to the electronics.
Two sets of ladder stairs on each side of the salon lead to the cabins. The master stateroom to port includes an aft double bed, a desk and chair configuration, and an en suite head and shower at the port bow. To starboard, the guest cabins include an aft berth, a shared head and shower, and forward, bunk-style twin berths. Tall vertical side windows and openable skylights on the ceiling provide great views, ventilation, and natural light. In some custom layouts, a washer/dryer combo can also be included on either side.
Standard engine information on the Archipelago 47 has not yet been announced, but the manufacturer said it expects the powertrain to produce about 450 hp and speeds of 15-30 knots, using a variety of propulsion options, from diesel to hybrid-electric to all-electric options.
Specs & Info
LOA 47’5” · Beam 21’0” · Draft 2’8”
Tankage (Fuel/Fresh/Black)
1,060 gals. / 264 gals. / 132 gals.
Engines
Available in a Variety of Propulsion Options
Contact
Oaksmith Yachts
Seattle, WA
Ben Oaksmith
206.949.2270
ben@oaksmithyachts.com
oaksmithyachts.com