Ikigai is a testament to the finest traditions of offshore sailing yacht design — a 25.13-metre aluminium sloop conceived by the acclaimed Judel Vrolijk & Co. design office and built in 2002 by JFA, one of France's most respected performance yacht builders. With a beam of 6.00 metres, a draft of 3.50 metres, and a displacement of 61 tonnes, she combines the structural integrity demanded by blue-water voyaging with the refined proportions of a thoroughbred racing cruiser. Most recently, she underwent a significant refit in 2024, following earlier major works at Vitters Shipyard in 2018 and 2023, ensuring that every system aboard reflects contemporary standards of quality and reliability.
Her hull and superstructure are fashioned from marine-grade aluminium — a material chosen not merely for its strength-to-weight ratio, but for its suitability in the demanding conditions of extended ocean passages. The flush deck design is among Ikigai's most considered architectural choices: all running rigging is concealed beneath the deck, yielding an uncluttered, elegantly spare topside that is as beautiful to look upon as it is safe to crew. Hydraulic winches, a furling boom, and a self-tacking genoa make her remarkably manageable for just two permanent crew members — a deliberate design philosophy that makes her ideal for extended circumnavigation without sacrificing performance or comfort.
Below decks, Ikigai's interior was crafted by GCA in Barcelona, Spain — a studio whose work is characterised by warmth, precision, and a deep understanding of life at sea. Clear-varnished teak runs throughout, lending a honeyed luminosity to every surface. Large windows flood the saloon with natural light, and thoughtful ambient lighting ensures the space transitions seamlessly from sun-drenched afternoon gatherings to intimate evening dinners. The saloon and dining area together form the social heart of the vessel — generous, welcoming, and never ostentatious.
Propulsion is provided by a 300hp Yanmar engine, capable of a comfortable cruising speed of 12 knots under power, supported by a 1,400-litre fuel capacity and a 16 kW Westerbeke generator to sustain every comfort aboard. With 1,200 litres of fresh water capacity, Ikigai is fully self-sufficient for extended passages. She sails under the British flag and is offered for charter across the length and breadth of the Western Mediterranean — from the perfumed coves of Corsica to the golden cliffs of the Amalfi Coast.
Beyond leisurely cruising, Ikigai is also available for racing charters, offering sailing enthusiasts the rare opportunity to experience competitive sailing aboard a yacht that sacrifices nothing in terms of either performance or luxury. Her racing pedigree and her refined livability make her one of the most versatile propositions in the 82-foot charter fleet.
