Finding Time to Enjoy – Selene Ocean Yachts
by John Curnow, Global Editor, Powerboat.World 6 Nov 12:00 PST
Interestingly, this title relates to both sides. For me, it was necessary to allocate time to learn more about Selene, as they aren’t typically at the forefront of people’s minds. That’s fine; they acknowledge this. Moving forward, the time they invested in detailing the who, what, and why of Selene became invaluable. The exciting part is that this headline played perfectly into the hand-crafted essence of their boats and their trawler-style, displacement speeds. Time, indeed.
What was impressive was the vast array of models Selene offers—24 in total, with the Ocean Explorers and Classic Explorers marking the beginning. These vessels range from 38 to 128 feet in length. Furthermore, they’ve successfully delivered over 400 crafts over 25 years. Their two building sheds, covering 13,936 square meters and a 2,973 square meter warehouse, combined with a water-side yard, paint an impressive picture.
Want more? The icing on the cake is a brand-new production facility that will span an impressive 38,000 square meters. There you go; that’s your mic drop moment.
Regarding the Australian operation, it possesses a distinctly American flair. That refers to Victor Kiam—you know, “liked it so much I bought the company.” While not the entire operation, one Director, Terry Goldacre, and General Manager, Darryl Harkness, have owned or currently own Selene motor yachts. The third Director, Ben Appo, began as a shipwright and now oversees all build aspects. That’s what you call a hands-on approach.
What underpins the brand? Regardless of the location, Selene owners genuinely love their vessels. In the US, regular rendezvous are organized, and here in Australia, owners cruise extensively, often spending up to six months on board—the norm, not an exception.
The details lie with buyers who conduct thorough research, necessary since Selene isn’t a brand you’d typically recall (yet). There’s a very tactile quality to them, paired with livability, ensuring that spaces onboard are accessible with just a few steps instead of steep ladders. If you’re getting older or have knee issues, you’re probably resonating with this now.
Harkness shared a relevant example: “At a recent show, a couple came aboard after owning another brand, and they mentioned not even using their flybridge because it’s far too challenging to navigate, especially with food and drinks.”
Appo shared another fitting anecdote: “I had visitors from New Zealand come aboard, and the gentleman asked, ‘What are you going to tell me about this boat?’ I responded, ‘Nothing at all. Just walk around and see for yourself.’ When he returned, I inquired how it went. He simply replied, ‘Wow. I didn’t expect this. What’s the price?’ After I answered, he said, ‘I’ll be looking for a new boat in a year or two, and I’ll reach out to you. This is a totally different experience compared to our current vessel.'”
Selene yachts cater to individuals desiring a capable boat easily handled by a couple, with the option to accommodate extended family, including children. The safety of the hull, build quality, and bulwark height speak volumes about that aspect.
Having adaptable spaces is part of the charm, allowing for areas to enjoy personal time (Boom. Boom. Basil Brush). Areas such as the single-level flybridge, cockpit, Portuguese bridge, and foredeck cater to this. Many owners opt to remove the tender chocks after launching, transforming that space with additional tables and umbrellas for a truly al fresco experience. As a full-keel displacement boat, a Selene allows for that, by the way.
“Ease of maintenance and operation is another vital aspect. Our Classic Explorer 53 operates on a single John Deere engine, consuming just 20 liters per hour at 7.5 knots, simplifying long-distance journeys,” Harkness remarked.
“Thanks to the superb build quality, it’s also economical to maintain, and come resale time, a well-kept boat looks fantastic and holds significant pre-loved value.”
Appo affirmed, “The potential to fulfill specific requests, like incorporating a treadmill, combined with outstanding quality, captivates buyers who already own vessels. Founder Howard Chen is meticulous, and most staff members have been part of the team for over ten years, starting in Taiwan, now based in Zhuhai near Macau, amidst many furniture manufacturers.
“Many aspire to work at Selene due to Howard’s esteemed reputation; he treats everyone nicely, which reflects in their dedication. This is a labor-intensive type of boat—everything is handcrafted. The GRP is all hand-laid, with cabinetry made in situ, ensuring the boat remains creak-free at sea.”
Not all boats are created equal; Selene offers vessels with vinylester resin applied to the double bias and chopped triaxial mat for the initial five layers, while only polyester is utilized above the waterline. High-density foam is employed for engine mounts, and the main bulkheads, stringers, and longitudinals offer rigidity for long-term viability. This also ensures genuine safety at sea. Think robust, and you’ll understand.
“Once, while unloading them at the Port of Brisbane—where staff frequently lift boats for import and export—they remarked that these (Selenes) are the quietest vessels we’ve lifted,” Harkness noted regarding the previous point.
“The finish on the stainless steel, glass, and interior design garners the most compliments. It’s entirely hand-built and hand-finished, requiring countless hours. There are very few power tools at Selene—perhaps a drill, and it isn’t even cordless,” Appo stated.
Once you reach the 62-foot range, you transition to twin engines, featuring stabilizers and thrusters to customize your vessel. Below this, you may opt for a main engine and a wing engine in smaller crafts, with the latter potentially functioning hydraulically as a backup.
From the outset, Howard’s vision involved constructing exceptionally capable ocean-going trawlers that also look appealing. They have certainly achieved that, even if they haven’t dominated the marketing arena. Nonetheless, if you’re only going to excel at one thing, at least it’s the right one.
However, this will have to evolve to ensure proficiency in both building and marketing, especially with a new 128-foot superyacht on the horizon, along with fresh models. Intriguingly, the 128 will be offered with GRP, steel, or aluminum hulls. That will definitely stir things up!
Undoubtedly, this will encourage more owners to explore globally, literally traversing the seven seas—one ocean at a time… Please send photos.
It can often be challenging to identify elements like a genuine sense of space, including practical storage solutions. Comments like ‘feels larger’ or ‘real usability’ are often attached, but it’s less common with boats that have a lower profile compared to similar vessels. Knowing that less weight aloft mitigates countering motion, being closer to the heavy components in the engine room is beneficial. Similarly, reduced wind resistance minimizes listing.
Vertical motion is the first thing to unsettle people, sending them scurrying for the head or leaning over the bulwark. Again, a lower profile assists, along with that full keel beneath you. At displacement speeds, you must navigate through rough conditions, even seeking shelter somewhere to avoid them. Keeping people in prime condition enhances decision-making, directly correlating to rule number one—safety at sea.
Currently, there’s word about a semi-displacement range under development. This is promising news for anyone desiring such flexibility. An axe bow will undoubtedly clarify which version of the Selene ethos you are considering, particularly if it achieves speeds of 22-25 knots—quite evident.
The new superyacht will also provide buyers added choice. With Howard Chen’s pragmatic design approach, both new ranges will embody a straightforward, practical boating ethos appealing to those wishing to spend time on board rather than tied at the dock.
Time brings confidence, especially when done right, something Selene owners often express. They find comfort in that, and indeed do so.
If you seek to slow down, savor time, and create memories that only genuine sea time can offer to your extended family, prioritize Selene in your research. You’ll be grateful for it. Individuals like Darryl and Ben won’t push the boat on you, per se, but will happily help you realize your boating ambitions. It’s a pleasant experience, genuinely.
That’s all, really. Powerboat.World has a wealth of material from all around the globe. If you’re unable to find what you seek, use the search function at the top of the landing page, just above our logo. Should you still not find what you want or wish to share something, don’t hesitate to contact us via email.
In closing, please take care,
John Curnow
