Cape Town-based Askari Yachts has launched its first Askari 65, a 65-foot aluminum long-range cruiser designed for extended offshore cruising. The new yacht combines a practical ocean-going platform with flexible accommodations and a layout geared toward owners who want to travel farther and spend more time aboard.
Designed by Du Toit Yacht Design, the Askari 65 has a marine-grade aluminum structure that allows the builder to customize layouts without creating a new production mold for each configuration. The first hull has four double en suite staterooms, including an aft master, while alternative arrangements can provide three en suite staterooms plus dedicated crew accommodations.
The main deck centers on indoor-outdoor living, with an aft cockpit connected to the galley through a large opening servery window. A forward cockpit and foredeck lounge provide additional outdoor space, while the flybridge adds another living area and an upper helm. Its hydraulically folding hardtop carries a 6,000-watt solar array and can be lowered to reduce the yacht’s overall profile.
A full-standing-height engine room sits aft of the master, with a watertight, fire-resistant door separating the machinery space from the accommodations. Aft of the engine room, a hydraulic transom door provides access to a dedicated garage for water toys, diving equipment and other cruising gear.
Twin Yanmar 4LV170 diesels give the Askari 65 a cruising speed of 8.5 knots and a maximum speed of 14.5 knots. With 1,228 gallons of fuel aboard, the builder estimates a range of about 2,300 nautical miles at 8.5 knots, increasing to as much as 3,100 nautical miles at economical displacement speeds.
Following its Cape Town launch, the first Askari 65 is scheduled to head to the United States for its international debut at the Annapolis Powerboat Show, October 8–11, 2026.
