A shift toward scalable, commercially viable electric-marine design is emerging as the dominant theme in Arkup’s next phase, following its acquisition by The Ark Companies. While the brand initially gained attention for its solar-electric, liveable vessels, the new ownership is steering the company toward a broader platform of recreational and commercial craft that support decarbonisation across the US market.
“Arkup has set out to assemble a world-class team and set of partners to drive the brand’s growth in this next chapter,” says Sam Payrovi, chief executive of The Ark Companies, emphasising that the strategy now hinges on building integrated products rather than one-off luxury concepts.
Arkup, based in Miami, manufactures solar-electric yachts and marine platforms designed for zero-emission operation (details are on its website). The company is now working more closely with established marine and industrial design firms as it attempts to unify sustainability, production quality and the user experience under a more standardised approach.
The Ark Companies acquired Arkup in the second quarter of 2025, positioning it within a group of three start-ups focused on maritime transportation, hospitality and advanced manufacturing. That said, MIN has been covering Arkup’s boats since 2022, when the company announced it had 20 pre-orders on the books for the Arkup 40, with the first model due to hit the water in Q3 2022.
A key part of the shift is the partnership with Lyman-Morse, the Maine boatbuilder with nearly five decades of experience in new builds and refits. Lyman-Morse will take over production of the Arkup 50 and future vessels. “This collaboration allows us to merge our 48-year heritage of craftsmanship with visionary design and cutting-edge technology,” says Drew Lyman, president of Lyman-Morse.
Design studio Pininfarina will lead the interior and exterior redesign of Arkup vessels, bringing its background in automotive, architectural and industrial projects. Paolo Trevisan, vice president of design, says the partnership reflects “a more sustainable and design-driven future on the water.” The collaboration will extend beyond the Villa 50 to future models, including the in-development Villa 75.
The company has now opened pre-orders for the Villa 50, described as the second generation of the Arkup 50. The model incorporates contributions from both Pininfarina and Lyman-Morse and is aimed at customers seeking a low-emission, autonomous platform for on-water living or recreation.
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