Ocean Alexander 84R

Ocean Alexander packs a ton of style and open spaces into the 84R. From the hydraulic swim platform to the large upper deck, she is designed to maximize the views.

Ocean Alexander has seen steady success in the recreational yacht market for a long time, which is why I’m impressed with the major changes they’ve implemented in their model lineup the last couple years. Temptation to not rock the boat is strongest during times when boats are selling successfully, yet Ocean Alexander has built on their strong position in the U.S., launching the Divergence line of outboard-powered boats and then the Revolution line of motoryachts. The first yacht heard round the world was the 90R that debuted at the 2019 Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show. I had the chance to go through the second iteration—the 84R—a year later at the 2020 Lauderdale show. The boat’s prominence in the builder’s display was a tip of the hat to how important this new model is to Ocean Alexander.

The first party trick I noticed on the 84R was the first thing you see when stepping aboard from the hydraulic swim platform: With the press of a button in the cockpit, the enormous transom lifts up to reveal a true beach club, complete with a shower and ample storage. This space, I’m told, can be customized depending on the needs of a customer. Want a rack for standup paddleboards or a dedicated space to store fishing gear? They can accommodate both requests.

The most impressive space aboard this new model is the salon and the acreage of space it encompasses. Opening the salon door, again with the push of a button, you can clearly see through the space to the lounge on the bow. If this main level wasn’t so well-appointed with luxurious social spaces, you’d (read: I’d) be tempted to play a game of two hand touch here, it’s that big.

Four staterooms below deck define the living accommodations; a true master suite is the envy of everyone aboard. But I don’t think anyone will be spending much time belowdeck on this superyacht of an 84-footer when they’re not sleeping. It’s the top deck that the smart money says will be the hangout spot of choice. It is available with either an enclosed or open bridge, but I tend to think the enclosed version, like the one on hull number one that I got aboard, will be the more popular choice. There is a comfortable lounge for six guests to carry on a conversation just behind three unbelievably comfortable helm chairs that face an exceptionally ship-like helm—and if you’re lucky, open water ahead.

If I were the captain of an 84, I would enjoy dropping the hook in a remote bay and unwinding on the aft section of the sundeck. With a large grill, plenty of cold drink storage and a number of seating options—even a hot tub aft—it surely offers the best views in the house. Now, back to that hot tub; I’m not usually a fan of them on boats—I tend to think that there are enough systems to maintain without small pools—but I have to admit, the thought of taking off my boat shoes and soaking my show-weary feet was mighty tempting, albeit frowned upon by brokers everywhere.

Beside the smart social spaces on the upper deck, I was glad to see that OA integrated a life raft within easy reach to starboard. On a boat this luxurious, it’s nice to see that safety didn’t take a back seat to style.

Another smart nod to safety that I noticed on the 84 and most other Ocean Alexanders recently are the exceptionally wide, protected side decks and beefy stainless rails that keep you secure in a squall.

A revolution is rarely caused by a single event, or in the case of boatbuilding, with a single model. Now that they’ve added the 84 to their line … we’re talkin ‘bout a revolution.

Ocean Alexander 84R Specifications:

LOA: 83’6”
Beam: 20’8″
Draft: 5’11”
Displ.: 227,732 lbs.
Fuel: 2,370 gal.
Water: 660 gal.
Standard Power: 2/1,650-hp MAN V12
Cruise speed: 18 knots
Top speed: 24 knots
Base price: $6 million

This article originally appeared in the May 2020 issue of Power & Motoryacht magazine.