Taking Time to Appreciate – Selene Ocean Yachts
by John Curnow, Global Editor, Powerboat.World 6 Nov 12:00 PST
It’s interesting how the title relates to both parties involved. For me, it was necessary to take time to learn about Selene since they aren’t commonly recognized as a premier brand, and they acknowledge this. On the other hand, it was about their willingness to spend time explaining the essence of Selene—who they are, what they do, and why. Ultimately, that headline was fitting, reflecting the artistry of their craft and their slow, trawler-style cruising speeds. Time is indeed essential.
The extensive array of models Selene offers is certainly impressive. They manufacture 24 different models, with the Ocean Explorers and Classic Explorers being just the beginning. Their lengths span from 38 feet to 128 feet. Additionally, in 25 years, they have delivered over 400 vessels. Two building sheds covering 13,936m² and a 2,973m² warehouse, along with their waterfront location, contribute to a remarkable picture.
If you’re looking for more, the addition of a new production facility covering an expansive 38,000m² is indeed noteworthy. That’s a striking development.
Regarding the Australian division, there’s a distinctly American influence present. Think of Victor Kiam’s famous quote, “I liked it so much, I bought the company.” While it may not pertain to the entire company here, one of the directors, Terry Goldacre, and General Manager, Darryl Harkness, both have been owners of Selene motor yachts. The third director, Ben Appo, started as a Shipwright, and now oversees every aspect of production. Now that’s what you call being hands-on.
But what does Selene’s brand represent? Regardless of location, owners share a genuine passion for their vessels. In the U.S., regular gatherings take place among owners, while in Australia, it’s common for owners to embark on extensive cruising adventures, often spending up to six months on board.
Buyers typically conduct thorough research, as Selene is not yet a brand you find in frequent recalls. They also appreciate a distinctive tactile quality, combined with livability, where spaces are easily accessible by just a few steps instead of steep ladders. For those with age or knee issues, this is an appealing feature.
Harkness shared an example, saying, “At a recent show, a couple aboard a different brand commented they never utilize their flybridge because it’s too difficult to navigate, especially when carrying food and drinks.”
Appo recounted another relevant story: “A gentleman from New Zealand boarded and asked me, ‘What are you going to try to tell me about this boat?’ I replied, ‘Nothing, just take a walk and see for yourself.’ Upon returning, he exclaimed, ‘Wow! I didn’t expect that. How much is it?’ When I told him, he said, ‘I’ll be looking for a new boat in a year or two and will be in touch with you. This is worlds apart from our current vessel.’”
Selene yachts are ideal for those desiring a capable boat manageable by a couple while still accommodating extended family, including kids. The hull’s safety features, build quality, and the height of the bulwarks contribute to this assurance.
Flexibility in onboard spaces enhances the experience by providing separations that allow personal time (Boom. Boom. Basil Brush). The single-level flybridge, cockpit, Portuguese bridge, and foredeck offer such options. Many owners choose to remove tender chocks after launching to create an open area for tables and umbrellas, embracing an alfresco lifestyle. Being a full-keel displacement vessel, owning a Selene allows for such enjoyment, by the way.
“Ease of maintenance and operation is another crucial aspect. Our Classic Explorer 53 features a single John Deere engine that uses only 20 liters per hour at 7.5 knots, which is excellent for long-range journeys,” remarked Harkness.
“Because of the high build quality, maintenance costs remain reasonable, and if you have consistently cleaned and polished it by the resale stage, the boat retains a strong pre-owned value.”
Appo further noted, “The capacity to integrate custom requests, such as a treadmill, along with exceptional quality, truly captivates buyers who are current boat owners. Founder Howard Chen is meticulous in his work, and many staff have been with the company for at least a decade. Initially based in Taiwan, they now operate in Zhuhai near Macau, a region full of furniture manufacturers.
“Many aspire to work here due to Howard’s stellar reputation. He treats everyone exceptionally well, which fosters serious dedication. This process requires extensive man-hours. Each vessel is hand-built, using laid GRP and customized cabinetry built in place to ensure no creaks occur at sea.”
Not all vessels are created equal; Selene vessels apply vinylester resin to the double bias and choppy triaxial mat for the initial five layers, resorting to polyester only above the waterline. High-density foam supports engine mounts, while main bulkheads, stringers, and longitudinals contribute structural integrity for longevity. This also enhances genuine safety at sea. Envision a robust, well-built vessel, and you’re on the right track.
“During unloading at the Port of Brisbane, where the guys handle numerous vessels for import and export, they remarked that Selenes are the quietest boats they have ever lifted,” Harkness added, emphasizing this point.
“The quality of finish on the stainless steel, glass, and interiors earns us the most compliments. Everything is hand-built and hand-finished, which necessitates countless hours of work—very few power tools are used at Selene, perhaps just a drill, and it isn’t even cordless,” Appo stated.
At the 62-foot mark, Selene transitions to twin engines and includes stabilizers and thrusters for customized functionality. Below this length, one can opt for a main engine combined with wing engines in smaller models, which could be hydraulic as a reserve.
Howard’s vision was always to construct highly capable ocean-going trawlers that are visually appealing. They have certainly achieved that, even if their marketing prowess hasn’t matched. Nonetheless, if you aim for excellence in just one area, at least it’s the right area.
However, this will need to adapt as a new 128-foot superyacht is in development, along with fresh models. Curiously, the 128 will come in GRP, steel, or aluminum hulls, which is bound to surprise some skeptics!
This shift will undoubtedly encourage even more owners to embark on global adventures, traversing seven seas. One ocean at a time… Please send pictures!
Quality perceptions, such as the feeling of genuine space and practical storage solutions, are often elusive. Comments like “feels larger” or “true usability” frequently accompany this experience, but you rarely see it highlighted in brands with a lower profile than other similar boats. It’s well known that weight above affects stability, so the closer you are to the weight of the engine, the better. Less windage also equates to reduced listing.
Vertical motion is typically the first cause of seasickness and discomfort; again, a lower profile helps mitigate this. The full keel beneath you facilitates this stabilization, and at displacement speeds, maneuvering through rough waters is necessary, even if it means seeking shelter. Maintaining crew wellness is essential for sound decision-making, reinforcing the foundational rule—safety at sea.
Currently, there’s talk of a semi-displacement range being developed, which is promising news for those seeking flexibility. An axe bow design will visibly define which version of the Selene philosophy you’re considering, especially if it achieves speeds of 22-25 knots; that distinction will be quite evident.
The upcoming superyacht will provide buyers with additional choices as well. Given Howard Chen’s practical approach and designs, both of these new ranges will genuinely focus on functional boating, appealing to individuals eager to maximize time aboard rather than being docked.
Time instills confidence, particularly when it’s well invested, and that’s a sentiment frequently expressed by Selene owners. They derive comfort from this connection, and it shows.
If you’re looking to slow down, embrace time, and create memories that only authentic time at sea can offer your extended family, not only should you carry out thorough research, but Selene should rise to the forefront of your priority list. You’ll be pleased you did. Individuals like Darryl and Ben won’t push you into a sale, but they will be more than delighted to help actualize your boating aspirations. How wonderful is that?
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Finally, please take care of yourselves,
John Curnow
