Yacht Class n°44 (march-april-may 2026)

Arcadia Yachts

Partir à la recherche de la mythique Arcadie mérite une unité dotée de nombreux atouts. Timonerie surélevée, longueur contenue, volumes lumineux et aménagements optimisés, sont quelques-unes des solutions mises en place par le chantier napolitain Arcadia Yachts. Voyage à bord de l’A80new.

Written by : Nicolas Massines – Photos : DR

Arcadia yachts have been sailing since 2009 and are easily recognizable on the water. Their distinctive features include high, voluminous bows at the front, sleek sterns at the rear, and full-height or full-width glass surfaces between the two, depending on the model. In short, these are vessels with a very distinctive character that have carved out a unique place for themselves in the nautical world thanks to their explorer and ocean-going adventurer look, combined with remarkable living conditions on board. So what about the name Arcadia? To understand the spirit behind this shipyard based in Sorrento, Italy, on the Amalfi Coast, one needs to take a little trip back in time and immerse oneself in Greek culture, where the mythical region of Arcadia symbolized harmony between man and nature. In other words, for the shipyard, the yacht construction project is a way of putting man back in his environment, especially the marine environment in this case.

Making size an asset

The range extends from approximately 18 to 35 meters, with two distinct lines: the A series, ranging from 80 to 116 feet, and the Sherpa series, comprising two models of 60 and 80 feet that are truly more exploration-oriented. The A80new makes her length a major asset. Although the 23.98 m of this yacht may seem relatively modest for this type of vessel, it has the advantage of keeping the boat below the 24 m mark, which is very favourable for sailing in the Mediterranean. And with good reason: the fight to preserve Posidonia seagrass beds has led to environmental standards prohibiting ships exceeding this threshold from anchoring in certain areas. A precision in construction of just two centimetres allows the 78-ton Arcadia 80new to move freely. Observing this 80-footer from the pontoons at the Cannes Yachting Festival, this “small” length is not so apparent, as her silhouette is in no way inferior to her much larger and more voluminous competitors. One of the striking features of her silhouette is the huge black glass surface running from the bow to the end of the aft cockpit. Like a promise of breathtaking views from inside. This is another trademark of the shipyard, which places great emphasis on the relationship with nature. Before boarding, the eye is drawn to the raised position of the wheelhouse (RPH – Raised Pilot House), a first for Arcadia Yachts, which, as we shall see, offers many advantages.

The raised wheelhouse, a first for Arcadia

Boarding from the stern allows you to appreciate the hydraulic platform and the two tilting bulwarks for easy access to the sea. Two staircases flank the tender garage – with a maximum length of four metres – and lead us to the main deck. An outdoor lounge covering almost the entire width of the boat welcomes passengers. It connects to the saloon via black sliding doors, which contrast nicely with the teak and white furniture. Inside the main deck, the lounge confirms its openness to the marine world with its large sliding glass panels. A large table and two facing benches furnish the space in a simple and discreet style. Located forward of the lounge on the port side are a large galley and a staircase leading to the crew quarters on the lower deck: a mess room and two cabins to accommodate a crew of four. Also on the lower deck are the four guest cabins, two of which are twin cabins with single beds (convertible into double beds) and two VIP cabins arranged in mirror image, each offering generous space. Back on the main deck, a small corridor on the starboard side leads to the owner’s cabin. With its soft curves, it is naturally lit by two large rectangular portholes, creating a natural, minimalist atmosphere that is very conducive to well-being. The bathroom occupies the forward section. One detail that is not insignificant: the thick carpet gives a very cosy feel to all the interior spaces. A staircase leads up to the interior helm station, equipped with a carbon wheel, Volvo IPS engine controls and boat management systems as well as the navigation centre of course. Although the headroom is not huge, the visibility is excellent. The location of this raised wheelhouse is a first for Arcadia Yachts. It offers the advantage of freeing up space for larger volumes, particularly for the owner’s cabin. Visually very attractive, it combines functionality with a very clear view of the maritime environment. A success that we shall no doubt see again on the Italian shipyard’s next vessels.

Units equipped with thermal and sound insulation

Four steps higher and through a sliding door, we find ourselves on the flybridge with a second helm station (also with a wheel) equipped with Garmin screens and yacht control systems. On the port side, a long bar faces a telescopic table that can be converted into a solarium, shaded by the hardtop on which solar panels are mounted, producing up to 4.3 kW of energy, while a relaxation area occupies the rear of the deck, with four solariums protected by a removable bimini top. The Arcadia A80new is equipped with two Volvo Penta IPS engines, each with 1,200 horsepower (1,300 optional) and counter-rotating propellers for better thrust and manoeuvrability. Another special feature of this engine is its reduced noise level, a priority for the Sorrento shipyard, which equips its vessels with double glazing and thermal and acoustic insulation. In terms of sailing performance, the A80new is capable of reaching a top speed of 20 knots, according to the shipyard. She provides an impressive cruising speed of 16 knots and can sail at 10 knots over a distance of 850 miles. Enough to set off in search of Arcadia with complete peace of mind.