Archipelago Yachts has announced the opening of its new dedicated shipyard facility in Newport on the Isle of Wight, opening to accelerate growth, increase build capacity and strengthen its presence within the UK’s renowned marine manufacturing sector.
The new facility provides Archipelago Yachts with its first wholly controlled production line, enabling the company to bring key capabilities in-house and support the next phase of its growth. The Newport shipyard has been established as both a production base and an innovation hub for the brand. By operating its own facility, Archipelago Yachts gains greater control over build quality, timelines and experimental development work that would be more difficult to pursue within third-party yards.
The Isle of Wight was selected for its deep heritage in aluminium and commercial vessel construction, as well as its strong marine skills base. Newport, the island’s capital, offers excellent transport links and river frontage for efficient vessel launch operations.
The new yard is configured to support up to four vessels under construction simultaneously, significantly increasing Archipelago’s throughput. The facility is expected to enable production of up to six boats per year once fully optimised, helping to reduce delivery times and support growing global demand for the company’s explorer-style motor yachts.
The shipyard strengthens Archipelago’s ability to:
-
Build multiple aluminium vessels concurrently
-
Accelerate prototype and R&D programmes
-
Develop advanced propulsion and alternative fuel solutions
-
Invest in next-generation manufacturing processes
The company is currently investing in enhanced manufacturing techniques, including laser welding, to improve precision, efficiency and structural performance.
A central focus of the new facility is Archipelago’s ongoing work in low- and zero-carbon marine technology. The yard will act as the primary development base for the company’s methanol range-extender project, an important step forward in hybrid and electric vessel capability.
Archipelago is committed to supporting the regional marine ecosystem. The company currently employs approximately 14 people at the facility and is prioritising collaboration with local suppliers and partners where possible.
The investment also aligns with the ambitions of Maritime UK Solent to strengthen the South Coast’s marine innovation cluster. The company is exploring future apprenticeship opportunities as part of its long-term workforce development plans.
Stephen Weatherley, CEO of Archipelago Yachts, said: “Establishing our own shipyard gives us the space and capability to accelerate Archipelago’s ambitions, particularly around zero-carbon propulsion and advanced vessel design. Just as importantly, it allows us to invest in skills, support the local marine economy and build a foundation for the next generation of the business.”
The new facility is already active, with the Archipelago 47 and Archipelago 40 currently in build and both scheduled for launch toward the end of summer 2026. A further three to four vessels are expected to enter production in the coming months, underscoring strong market momentum.
For more information visit https://www.archipelago-yachts.co.uk
