From Open Waters to Intimate Interiors – The Art of Styling Yachts

There’s something inherently romantic about styling a yacht – a space suspended between worlds, part home, part vessel, part gateway to the unknown. Whether you’re outfitting a sleek coastal cruiser or an Arctic explorer built for long-haul expeditions, styling a yacht is all about balance: comfort meets utility, beauty meets endurance, luxury meets restraint.

At Pfeiffer Design, we recently had the pleasure of styling an Arctic explorer yacht – a vessel designed not just for weekends of leisure, but for real adventure. Long journeys, remote locations, ever-changing elements. Alongside Design Unlimited, who designed the interior spaces, our task was to style this incredible yacht, embracing its extreme nature while softening it for the everyday explorer.

We share all our favourite aspects of the Arksen 85, from the hard finishes and joinery designed by Design Unlimited, to our finishing touches in the styling.

Designing for the Everyday Explorer

Unlike a holiday yacht, where styling might focus on sun-drenched deck life and summer linens, a long-distance explorer yacht must act more like a home. That means the interior needs to work harder – to offer warmth, tactility and a deep sense of place, no matter the latitude. Styling here is not about decoration, but about storytelling and sanctuary.

Begin by layering soft, natural textures – thick wool throws, leather-wrapped handles, tactile timbers and beautifully weighted upholstery that invites you to sink in after a day on deck, like the ones implemented here by Design Unlimited. Select a palette of rich, earthy tones that echo the environment: for the Arksen 85, stormy greys, glacier whites, washed sea-greens and soft, smoky blues. These hues not only connect the interior to the outside world but help create a space that soothes the senses.

Materials that Move with You

In marine environments, materials matter. Everything is in motion – the boat, the air, the sea – and styling must accommodate that constant change. Loose, breakable objects are kept to a minimum. Instead, look to build in beauty: joinery that becomes sculpture, panelling that brings warmth and rhythm, lighting that adjusts with the mood and the time of day. The details incorporated by Design Unlimited on the Arksen 85 feel effortless, establishing a sense of purpose and longevity.

Durability is equally key. Surfaces need to withstand salt air and temperature shifts. Fabrics should be UV-resistant and ideally water-repellent. Lean on technical outdoor textiles that still feel soft and luxurious but can endure life at sea.

Creating Cosy, Layered Spaces

For longer journeys, comfort is not a luxury – it’s essential. Cabin spaces should feel like proper bedrooms, not just berths. Upholstered headboards, blackout blinds and ambient lighting with dimmers for softness will enforce this. Banish harsh white lighting in favour of warm, layered glows that create a sense of calm, especially in high-latitude environments where daylight hours fluctuate dramatically.

Storage must be clever and considered. The beautifully executed joinery and integrated lighting by Design Unlimited played a key role in achieving this on board – concealing clutter while revealing thoughtful details like pull-out reading lamps, lined drawers for jewellery and integrated charging points. These touches go a long way in creating an effortless and elegant onboard experience.

Bringing Personality Aboard

Styling a yacht also means telling a story. Who’s aboard? Where are they going? What matters to them? For our Arctic explorer, the styling was guided by a sense of quiet strength and discovery. We layered in books on wild landscapes and expedition photography, chose pieces that referenced the polar environment and selected handmade ceramics that felt rooted in place, not trend.

It’s important to avoid styling that feels too “coastal cliché.” Instead, embrace a refined nautical nod – brass details, vintage marine maps, weathered finishes – and blend these with contemporary craftsmanship and personality-led touches. A yacht, after all, is not just a vessel – it’s a reflection of its owner’s world.

Final Thoughts

The best yacht interiors don’t fight the elements; they speak to them. They understand the rhythm of the sea, the solitude of the open water, the joy of small luxuries in remote places. Whether you’re sailing the Norwegian fjords or waking to sunlight on the Mediterranean, a beautifully styled yacht should ground you while still reminding you that you’re somewhere extraordinary.

With thoughtful design, layered comfort and a deep respect for the journey, it’s possible to create an interior that not only endures the voyage – but enhances it, one nautical mile at a time.

We thank the Arksen team for allowing us to be involved in this project. The end result truly defines the balance between rugged functionality and refined comfort – an interior beautifully brought to life by the expert craftsmanship and considered detailing of the Design Unlimited team.