Arcadia Sherpa 80 Review (2019 Edition)

Arcadia gained recognition through its A range of eco-conscious long-distance yachts. These yachts continue to lead the way in various impressive and significant aspects, playing a pivotal role in the future of yachting with a focus on efficiency and space.

The Sherpa series, currently comprising just two models, includes an appealing 18m (59ft) yacht and the 80 XL. While following the same environmentally conscious path, the Sherpa series presents a more visually imposing presence. Arcadia labels them as "pocket mega yachts," a term fitting for the entry-level model, but the XL stands as a serious cruising vessel in its own right, without the need for such exaggeration.

SUV Muscle

This two-deck vessel presents a purposeful appearance, characterised by tall, robust explorer-like bow sections, an upright bridge, and expansive aft decks. Resembling a modern-day S.U.V., it stands out in its sector thanks to the impeccable quality of its construction and streamlined design.

Slightly shorter than the Arcadia A85, it boasts a similar beam and the added advantage of an extra deck, featuring a private owner-style upper deck as a notable highlight. Despite its size, weighing 63 tons, it is notably lighter than the A85. This weight difference contributes to its ability to reach speeds of up to 23 knots, powered by twin 800hp IPS1050 engines.

Space Ship

The Arcadia design philosophy of spacious hulls is demonstrated here. Available with either a three or four-cabin layout, the yachts offer remarkable space throughout. In the three-cabin version, the galley is moved below decks to maximize salon space. Conversely, in the four-cabin version, with the galley positioned above, ample room is evident both above and below deck.

Every cabin boasts excellent floor space, particularly the expansive master suite. The tall ceilings and full beam of the yacht maximize space, with cabins extending outboard the hull and featuring impeccably finished walls that follow the hull's contours.

A notable feature of the Sherpa XL is Arcadia's emphasis on glass. Each cabin enjoys scenic views, while the deck salon benefits from a wall of glass, incorporating Arcadia's solar roof technology to power the battery banks. Despite the abundance of glass, heat is managed effectively through insulating double-glazed windows filled with krypton gas, reducing heat by approximately 18°C, akin to a 20-centimeter-thick brick wall.

During testing under the Mediterranean sun, the deck salon remained significantly cooler than the outdoor temperature, reducing the reliance on air conditioning and energy consumption.

Glass plays a significant role in the contemporary yacht experience, and Arcadia elevated it to new heights with the A series. While the Sherpa may not reach the same level as its A series counterparts, it still offers ample window area.

The deck salon features a panelled glass roof and wraparound windows, creating a bright and airy space. Inset blinds overhead add to the ambience, making it feel cosy. However, despite being a great space, it may see limited use due to the excellent on-deck social options available.

The salon is equipped with abundant cabinetry, a large pop-up TV cabinet, and the main helm station. In the four-cabin configuration, the galley is located aft and may be the only area that feels slightly small compared to the yacht's spacious live-aboard proportions.

Below deck, the master suite is situated amidships, with the guest quarters forward. Arcadia's commitment to providing the space and volume of much larger yachts becomes evident as you descend a few steps into the master suite. Space is a rare luxury on any yacht, but here, there is ample floor space, with the cabin extending far aft thanks to the IPS pod drive engines.

Hitting Heights

The headroom is impressive, providing a full-beam feel, especially with an open ensuite that can be closed off using a clever sliding door system. However, the ample space available is undoubtedly due to the absence of a lounge area, a feature one would typically expect on a yacht of this size.

Despite the focus on space, it's important to note the sharp, clean, and sophisticated finish onboard. High gloss finishes are complemented by cool white panels, stainless steel, and washed silvery timber. The forward VIP cabin showcases this aesthetic particularly well. With intricate detailing and shaping, the cabin boasts a port side that flares out with the bow and features inset glass. A well-appointed ensuite is located to starboard, offering ample storage. Between the VIP and master cabins are twin ensuite guest cabins, both generously sized with ample floor space.

The main and only helm station is located forward of the salon, right at the very front. Positioned before Arcadia’s large sailing-yacht-style carbon wheel, you're practically within reach of the bows, offering an excellent forward view.

Ideal for cruising, the helm features two proper high-backed seats, situated atop a raised dash pod housing three MFDs. The setup is minimalist, functional, and clean, reflecting the yacht's overall cool vibe.

Stylistically, the Sherpa range injects Arcadia with a sense of purposeful energy. However, this XL yacht offers something even more significant: a fantastic set of decks that provide not just space and luxury, but also a feeling of privacy.

Spanning two levels, there is a wide array of lounge and dining options, complemented by standout features such as the starboard-side tender garage and hydraulic bathing platform, which also serves as a passerelle.

The upper deck, accessible from the salon, offers a more private outdoor space. It remains clear for the placement of free-standing furniture of your choosing and is complemented by large cabinets capable of housing various amenities, from a bar to a barbecue. While open to the sun, this area is ideal for sunbathing, although carbon poles can be installed to create extensive shade if desired.

Below, the main deck aft serves as a complete alfresco living area. Sheltered by the overhang, this often overlooked space feels exceptionally welcoming, with an almost interior-like ambiance.

The dining area is positioned forward, nearer to the galley, and is accompanied by a broad row of cabinets. With open sides, the dining area offers exceptional views through cutaway bulwarks, although Arcadia will also provide sliding doors to enclose the space if desired.

Both decks boast ample width, notably evident in the main deck's lounge area, featuring two expansive facing sofas that extend to a sun pad large enough to accommodate a tennis match. Finished in teak, stainless steel, and Arcadia's impeccably crafted moldings, the entire deck area is sublime.

The simplicity of the Arcadia Sherpa XL is a notable pleasure. It requires considerable courage and skill to design something free from the typical stylistic embellishments found in most yachts, such as swoops, sections, and specifications. The presence of TVs onboard almost comes as a surprise.

The XL's simplicity results in excellently crafted and elegantly finished spaces that require minimal dressing. Therefore, the basic yacht serves as an excellent starting point, with the addition of navigation equipment and some deck luxuries being the only considerations for the buyer.