Experience the Thrill and Stability of Arksen Discovery 8 on Rough Waters

Published: 30 Oct 2025
The Arksen Discovery 8, the first RIB from British adventure brand, Arksen, makes its dynamic debut, showcasing unparalleled performance and innovative design.

The Southampton Boat Show witnessed an exciting buzz with the debut of Arksen’s first Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB), the Discovery 8, which stole the spotlight with its anticipation-filled unveiling. Recently, an exclusive opportunity to put this magnificent marine creation through its paces in rough waters, showcased its impressive offshore capability while revealing the essence of its innovative design. Following in the footsteps of its prototype, the Discovery 8 has been refined over time into an enticing blend of rugged aesthetics reminiscent of an SUV and serious offshore capability. The striking hull and deck design signals its intent as a proper offshore vessel. It sports a deep V hull with a fine entry and sharp, cleanly resolved spray rails, expertly designed to deliver peerless performance in challenging conditions. The boat features a revolutionary deck layout, painstakingly designed with an effective solution for boarding from the water. The seating arrangement is notably tailored to boost security, integrate useful features such as armrests, drained cupholders, and wireless phone chargers. The versatile cockpit shines with several innovative features, including a vast locker and an optional grill removable wet bar. The helm, neatly offset to port, creates a convenient starboard walkway and keeps the throttle safe from traffic. This clever layout generates extra room for a spacious heads compartment within the console, featuring neat inclusions such as a sink, fabric shelving, and a proper electric loo with a holding tank. Tested with the maximum power option, twin 4.2L V6 250hp outboards, the Discovery 8 demonstrates outstanding stability and strength at sea, even in challenging conditions. Cruising at an efficient 30 knots sees the engines turning a relaxed 3,500 RPM, consuming approximately 60 L/hr— a testament to the boat’s efficient and excellent design.