Arkup, a developer of sustainable and livable marine vessels, has officially unveiled its latest solar-electric houseboat, the ARKUP 50, which will be showcased at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show later this month. This innovative modular solar yacht can be configured with up to two bedrooms and bathrooms, allowing it to function as both a stationary residence and a mobile watercraft—all while maintaining zero emissions. Notably, it also features Starlink internet for seamless connectivity.
Founded in 2016 and based in Miami, Arkup aims to provide luxurious, resilient, and sustainable livable yachts. The company garnered attention with its original model, the ARKUP 75, which was touted as a “liveable yacht” and gained recognition through various media outlets, including Netflix, National Geographic, and Architectural Digest.
While the ARKUP 75 has become a familiar sight in Miami, parked off the MacArthur Causeway, Arkup has now enhanced its sustainable technology in the new ARKUP 50. This updated model offers greater versatility and eco-friendliness.
Before its debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), Arkup introduced the ARKUP 50, part of its Liveable Yacht Series of solar-electric houseboats. The vessel features both upper and lower decks with configurable floor plans, allowing customers to choose between a studio, one-bedroom/one-bath, or two-bedroom/two-bath layout.
The ARKUP 50 is designed with spacious wrap-around exterior decks that can fold up for transit. It is equipped with 12 kW solar panels and a 20 kW inverter, along with a unique jack-up anchoring system that enables extended periods of stability off the water. As Arkup explains:
“Our innovative self-stabilizing, self-lifting jack-up anchoring system elevates the livability of our vessel, setting it apart from traditional yachts. This advanced system allows the yacht to rise above the waves, effectively eliminating any movement that can cause discomfort or sea sickness. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful evening in the bay or hosting guests on the lake, the stability provided by this technology creates an experience akin to being on land, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy life on the water.”
For those opting for the mobile version of the ARKUP 50, navigation is facilitated by a 50 kW inboard electric thruster with a 180° rotation capability and a 23” propeller, as well as a 10 kW thruster on the bow. These motors are powered by a 75 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery pack, which can be recharged in six hours using solar energy. The battery provides a range of 13 nautical miles (NM) at 8.5 knots (9.8 mph) and up to 32 NM at 4 knots (4.6 mph). Additionally, customers can choose to add an air-cooled 15 kW diesel Genset, extending the range to 500 NM at 4 knots.
Designed with Arkup’s “live in the view” philosophy, the interior boasts large windows throughout, offering panoramic views of the marine surroundings. The decks ensure a 360-degree perspective, whether the boat is anchored or cruising.
Connectivity is a key feature, as all Arkup vessels are equipped with Starlink internet, allowing owners to monitor and adjust their yacht’s operations via a mobile app.
The ARKUP 50 starts at $900,000, with prices reaching up to $1.6 million for the two-bedroom configuration. The solar-electric houseboat will be on display at FLIBS from October 30 to November 4.
