The superyacht industry is witnessing a surge in boat tender and chase boat offerings, and at the forefront is the innovative B-Craft with its latest creation, the Akoya tender. This vessel not only promises an abundance of customization options but also embarks on a unique tour through some of Europe’s most picturesque boating havens. For prospective clients, it’s an enticing invitation to experience a sea trial, allowing them to grasp the potential of a boat designed to meet diverse needs.
Founded by a father-son duo, Roeland and Joris Van Aelst, B-Craft operates out of Belgium, with their vessels constructed in The Netherlands. Both Roeland and Joris are avid cruisers, driven by a vision to create a boat they deemed necessary yet currently absent in the market. Traditional production boats, suitable for activities like wakeboarding or functioning as chase boats, often prioritize performance over style and convenience. Many of these boats fail to stow easily on superyachts, and their customization is limited to mere color choices and fabric options. B-Craft aims to fill this gap by introducing the Akoya, which marries functionality with elevated aesthetics.
At 28 feet (8.6 meters), the B-Craft Akoya is engineered to support a variety of watersports, highlighted by its impressive 450-hp Volvo Penta Forward Drive propulsion system. This innovative stern drive features forward-facing, counter-rotating propellers, providing smooth water conditions critical for activities like wakeboarding. The performance capabilities are equally compelling, with a cruising speed of 20 knots and a thrilling top speed of 45 knots. The Akoya also distinguishes itself as a sophisticated megayacht tender; its wakeboard tower cleverly stows and deploys beneath a hatch, enhancing the vessel’s sleek profile. With seating for eight along its 8’4” (2.55-meter) beam, options such as automated bimini, side-boarding platforms, and sunbeds elevate its luxury quotient. Perhaps most impressively, B-Craft emphasizes extensive custom options, allowing clients to tailor everything from accessories and fabrics to unique layouts and premium materials.
The Akoya’s upcoming roadshow aims to tackle a prevalent challenge for potential boat buyers—gaining firsthand experience of a vessel in its intended environment. “One of the biggest challenges for prospective boat buyers is finding the opportunity to experience a vessel where they actually intend to use it,” shares Joris Van Aelst. By bringing the Akoya directly to famous boating destinations, B-Craft provides clients a rare opportunity to get behind the wheel and appreciate what differentiates this tender. After already making waves in Lake Como, Italy, the Akoya will continue its journey to Marina Dalmacija in Croatia for sea trials on July 17 and 18, as well as additional sessions from August 8 to 12. Following this, it will return to Lake Como from August 15 to September 5, with on-water demonstrations scheduled in conjunction with prestigious events like the Cannes Yachting Festival and the Monaco Yacht Show.
Additionally, the roadshow will introduce potential owners and captains to B-Craft’s innovative Akoya configurator, which is accessible via their website. This interactive tool allows users to experiment with colors and finishes while visualizing the outcomes from various perspectives. Currently boasting over 27 million combinations, the configurator highlights B-Craft’s commitment to personalization. The Van Aelsts are also working on design packages aimed at enhancing their other models, including the Akoya Cabin and Tahiti, for a fully customizable experience in the near future.
For those interested in experiencing the Akoya firsthand, appointments for the roadshow can be scheduled through a dedicated sign-up page on the B-Craft website.
B-Craft bcraftboats.com