Arcadia announces construction of first Sherpa XL

Italian shipyard Arcadia Yachts has announced its first Sherpa XL, a 23.8-metre (78-foot) evolution of its award-winning Sherpa yacht launched in 2016.

The yard describes the new project as one which “evolves the concept of ‘pocket megayacht’”, integrating impressive amounts of space and luxury that might usually be found in larger superyachts into the Sherpa XL’s sleek LOA. Her beam is wider than 6.9 metres – wider even than some 27-metre superyachts – and she can offer a staggering 220 square metres of living space, a full 25% more space than similar-sized yachts.

Ugo Pellegrino, the sole director of Arcadia, said in a statement, “This new project means a great deal to me, personally, because I spent a lot of time on Sherpa and fully appreciated its qualities. I would like this new model to be another step towards the creation of a new concept of yacht, which gives the green light to a new line and is not simply a Sherpa on a larger scale. The latter would have been a quicker and easier solution for us, but we fully intend to keep our role as innovators and to continue to push our industry further.” 

Sherpa XL’s innovative design has been developed by Milan-based studio Hot Lab. Michele Dragoni, the company’s exterior chief designer, explained, “The concept of the Sherpa XL develops around the special layout of the decks. The bow decks are split to develop a central flight of stairs with small differences in height. This particular ‘jigsaw’ layout, in addition to providing considerable space in what is actually not a great height, has allowed us to play with volumes and create an immediately recognisable profile.”

Arcadia’s characteristically large external spaces are present aboard the Sherpa XL, with a forward living area boasting enough space for seating and a dining area for up to 10 guests. A sunlounge, generously positioned on the upper deck, comes complete with bar and pantry facilities, and a skylounge with button-controlled windows allows for intimate contact with the surrounding environment.

Modern interiors can be complemented by a range of fixtures and furnishings from top Italian brands, with a wide variety of fabrics and finishes for her owner to choose from.

The tender is stored slightly forward of the engine room and launched via a side hatch to avoid disturbing guests.

The Sherpa XL will be powered by twin Volvo Penta IPS 1050 main engines, allowing for a top speed of approximately 22 knots. She is estimated to have a 1,500-mile range at 10 knots, with an extra-efficient semi-displacement hull allowing for greatly increased range in comparison to similar-sized yachts.

In addition, the new build will be equipped with solar panels (sufficient for all on-board systems except air conditioning) and energy-saving appliances and LED lighting.

Engineering of the first Sherpa XL is almost complete, with the on-spec construction of the unit currently underway. She will make her international debut at the 2019 Cannes Yachting Festival.

For more information, visit Arcadia Yachts.

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