B-Craft Akoya: A Belgian Vision Redefining the High-End Sport Tender
A family passion turned into a remarkable boating innovation. With the launch of the B-Craft Akoya, Belgian start-up B-Craft — founded by father and son Roeland and Joris Van Aelst — brings a new and refined perspective to the world of luxury tenders and sporty day cruisers.
For the Van Aelsts, summer holidays have always revolved around the water: mornings spent wakeboarding or waterskiing, afternoons picnicking on board or diving in for a swim, and evenings moored at waterfront restaurants or cafés. But something was missing. No boat they owned ever truly met their needs. The ones good for watersports lacked style, the stylish ones couldn't handle rough seas, and none offered the versatility of a superyacht tender.
So Joris, after completing his studies in Naval Architecture and Transportation Design, decided to create the boat that didn’t yet exist. Following six years of research, design, adjustments, testing and collaboration with national and international partners, the B-Craft Akoya prototype is now a reality. And it has far exceeded initial expectations.
His professional background as a designer in the superyacht industry is unmistakably reflected in the Akoya. With refined lines, attention to detail, and a forward-thinking technical approach, the result is a boat that seamlessly blends character and elegance. It’s a stylish, high-performance craft that is equally at home as a day boat or as a tender on a premium superyacht.
Among its standout features is the patented 'Rig' system: an integrated watersports pole that, combined with a forward-facing propeller and pre-set configurations, delivers outstanding performance for waterskiing, wakeboarding and wakesurfing. Once the action ends, the pole fully retracts into the side deck, leaving a clean, minimalist layout and transforming the Akoya into an elegant day cruiser. It can dock gracefully at a Riviera residence or fit seamlessly in a superyacht garage.
At 8.6 metres long and 2.55 wide, the Akoya is powered by a 430 hp Volvo Penta Ocean X engine. It’s also the first boat built in Europe to feature a forward-facing propeller — a detail that significantly improves handling and ride comfort. The aft platform includes two generous storage compartments for wet gear, as well as a built-in shower to rinse off before stepping back aboard dry.
The boat’s digital systems offer a refined and intuitive user experience. Most functions — including the custom retractable anchor, the pop-up dining table, the automatic bimini, and the adjustable swim platform, sunbeds and engine hatch — can be operated from the helm or remotely via smartphone or tablet.
Comfort on board is treated with utmost attention. From high-quality materials and a state-of-the-art sound system to onboard refrigeration, LED and underwater lighting, USB charging ports (seven in total), a cocktail bar and hot water system, every detail is crafted with the user in mind. Magnetic crockery prevents spills, and the integrated chessboard adds a playful twist. As a final touch, the boat can even be equipped with a Méraud watch that doubles as an elegant dashboard clock.
The B-Craft Akoya is much more than a sport boat. It’s a moving design object — a convergence of technology, lifestyle, and performance. It reimagines what it means to sail in style, blending functionality with an experience-led philosophy.
With this model, Roeland and Joris Van Aelst have created a true disruptor in the world of tenders and day cruisers. Proof that innovation and excellence can come from emerging players, and that Belgium, too, can write a new chapter in high-end yachting.
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