The A100 also features an ambitious new sky lounge concept which is convertible to a third deck that can be entirely enclosed by side windows. The latter can be raised all the way up to the hard top, exactly as happens in a car. This means the entire upper deck is exceptionally flexible and usable regardless of weather conditions. It can be air-conditioned in very warm climes or protected from the elements in bad weather. Equally, it can be left open like a conventional flying bridge. The third deck also features the helm station, a saloon furnished with sofas and occasional tables, a wet bar and, aft, a sunning terrace.
NPL HULL AND EFFICIENT, LOW FUEL CONSUMPION
The A100 sports a fibreglass NPL semi-planing hull which takes its name from the fact that tests were carried out to determine its optimal form and most hydrodynamically efficient length-beam ratio at the Physical Laboratory of England. Further research was carried out by the ARCADIA technical department before adopting the NPL hulls for its yachts, resulting in excellent sea-keeping and noise damping for unparalleled onboard comfort. Coupled with ARCADIA’s lightweight superstructure, it delivers efficient
performance with a modest engine set-up, significantly cutting fuel consumption and running costs compared to yachts of similar dimensions. Currently, sporting twin 1,000 hp Man V8s, the A100 makes an impressive speed of around 18 knots at full throttle and cruises at 16 which is perfect for long-range cruising. At 14 knots, overall consumption drops to just 150 litres/h, falling still further to a mere 50 litres/h at 10 knots, which is far lower than other yachts of the similar dimensions.
The A100 has a long range also thanks to reduced generator use as electricity is provided by the solar panels that cover almost the entire superstructure.
SOLAR PANEL-DELIVERED AUXILLARY POWER
New generation photovoltaic cells are integrated into the exterior and interior surfaces of the double- glazed panels fitted to most of the superstructure. This advanced, green system comprises 50 square metres of solar panels and provides enough power to drive most equipment and electrical appliances, such as fridges, water pump, WCs, lights, A/V, electronics, whilst the batteries recharge. All of the energy requirements aboard when the yacht is riding at anchor are met with the exception of air conditioning and the induction hob in the galley. The result is a considerable saving on fuel, less pollution and improved onboard comfort because of the significant drop in noise and vibration levels as well as a complete absence of emissions. And all while guests have fun at the swim platform!
The photovoltaic cells in the solar panels have evolved since the first time they were installed by ARCADIA. The new generation system uses monocrystalline cells with eight rather than four sides each which improves their efficiency. Previously, each panel delivered 3.5 kilowatt of power but that figure has now been upped to just under 5 kilowatts: a 40% increase in less than seven years. “The power generated at 24V goes directly to the battery pack and then via an inverter is converted to 220V and then sent to throughout the entire boat,” declared Ugo Pellegrino – Sole Director, Arcadia Yachts.
Every double-glazed panel is filled with a special gas that guarantees a high thermal insulation coefficient, resulting in a difference of up to 18° between the temperature measured on the inner and outer surfaces of the panels: the equivalent of a 20 cm brick wall.
ONBOARD COMFORT
Onboard comfort levels on the A100 are the product of meticulous attention lavished by the yard on noise and vibration damping during the construction phases through the adoption of solutions that minimise guest perception of both factors as much as possible. Furthermore, it is policy on all ARCADIA yachts to avoid the use of steps, creating single-level decks. This facilitates movement aboard and creates a heightened sense of comfort and continuity rarely found on craft of these dimensions.
ABOUT ARCADIA YACHTS
ECOTHINK – A “green” approach that is there in everything we do, in our everyday life, in our work and in the big decisions we make. A lifestyle that Arcadia Yachts has succeeded in transferring to the nautical sector with an idea that marries luxury with aesthetic sensibility, and satisfaction with respect for the environment.
An ecologically-aware thought process that translates into eco-friendly solutions that cut fuel and energy consumption, and reduce environmental impact. So that we can all enjoy the sea in a freer and more responsible way. Because the future of yachting is getting a little greener each and every day.
ECOTECH – The most advanced technological research and the best of Italian creativity focused on providing innovative, effective solutions that constitute a sustainable new frontier for the nautical sector:
> FUNCTIONAL DESIGN that is also highly personal in character and aims to integrate the forms and components necessary to achieving impressive eco-friendly performance levels;
> DOUBLE-GLAZED SOLAR PANELS integrated into superstructures to deliver superb comfort whilst simultaneously recharging batteries and directly powering main onboard systems (excluding Air Conditioning). This is the only way that generator use can be reduced;
> THE HYDRODYNAMIC EFFICIENCY of our semi-planing hull which requires only modest engine power, resulting in very low fuel consumption, emissions and maintenance costs.
> A SOPHISTICATED PLANT to treat waste water to prevent pollution;
> THE ARCADIA ASSEMBLING SYSTEM which minimises waste materials from production and paint processes, as well as construction times.
THE YARD – The yard lies in the very heart of the Mediterranean: it is a 36,000 m2 facility in which artisanal workmanship, modern technologies, attention-to-detail and the surrounding environment are all seamlessly integrated.
THE FLEET – A range of fiberglass models spanning 58 to 115 feet, with new designs in that will boost it to 145 feet and beyond.