The performance and operational capabilities of the new luxury offshore RIB are put to the test during a sea trial by Skipper ONDECK off Lavrio.
The day in Lavrio started most favourably with the sea in front of us resembling a glass mirror, as we held the keys to the brand-new APX Artemis 9m by STS Yachting. The black hull (RAL 9017) with its imposing hardtop stood moored at the pier, inviting us to push it in its natural element. The vessel holds official CE certification, confirming its high safety standards from the very first moment.
PRESSING START: THE FIRST IMPRESSION
Stepping onto the deck, the build quality of STS Yachting wins you over even before starting the engines. The foam decking provides excellent grip along with a soft feel underfoot, while the CZone digital switching powers everything up and gives complete control over the marine electrical installation with a single touch on the screen. Firing up the twin Mercury Diesel MD 3.0 V6 engines (2×270HP), the low, deep rumble of the diesels immediately betrays the power hidden within the well-ventilated engine room. Leaving the harbor speed limits behind, we drop the throttles. The response from the Bravo 3 sterndrives is instantaneous. Without any bow rise, the deep-V hull (advanced fiberglass composite) planes progressively and smoothly. With the sea as smooth as glass, we open the throttle all the way. The speedometer reads 44+ knots. The boat stays locked onto its course, with the hydraulic steering gear offering absolute precision and a sense of confidence even at top speeds.
TESTING MANEUVERS AND COMFORT
Time to see how the boat performs in tight turns. At 35 knots, we turn the wheel sharply. The Artemis 9m responds immediately, takes the correct bank angle, and carves its trajectory without sliding even a centimeter. Seated in the six ER Pro shock-mitigating seats with their premium Öhlins suspension systems, the sensation is almost surreal. Even when we deliberately cross the wakes of other boats to test the shock absorption, the suspensions swallow every vibration, leaving the body completely rested, while around us extends the premium lounge seating package for the rest of the passengers. Stabilizing our cruising speed at 38 knots, we check the gauges: fuel consumption stands at just 1.3 liters per nautical mile! With the dual vinylester tanks totaling 580 liters (2×290L) and featuring a fuel system with water separator filtration, we quickly calculate that you can almost cruise the Aegean without a refueling stop.
LIVING ON DECK
Stopping offshore to inspect the interior spaces, you understand why Project Artemis was engineered as a premium tender and expedition vessel. The interior marine toilet compartment offers full autonomy, the 120L fresh water tank with fore & aft deck connections feeds the shower and hot water boiler, while wireless charging stations and integrated storage compartments keep devices and personal items ready and protected. From the windscreen demisting system, marine windscreen wiper, and powerful searchlight, to the diesel air heaters, underwater lights, and lithium service batteries, it is clear that this vessel is built for year-round cruising. As for superyacht support needs, the carbon fiber ski pole, stainless swimming ladder, full aft platform layout, anchor winch with anchor and chain, fender quick-lock mounts, and dedicated lifting points confirm the emphasis on practicality.
Returning to the pier at Lavrio, the impression left by the APX Artemis 9m by STS Yachting is that of a perfectly balanced vessel. It combines the explosive power of 540 diesel horsepower with efficiency, cutting-edge technology, and the comfort of a luxury lounge. Whether serving as a demanding superyacht tender or an independent long-range cruiser, the Artemis 9m sets new standards in its class.
SPECIFICATIONS
Overall Length: 9.10m
Beam: 3.06m
Top Speed: 44+ knots
Engines: Twin Mercury Diesel MD 3.0/ 270HP V6
Fuel Consumption: 1.3 L/nm at knots
Fresh Water System: 120L
Construction: Advanced fiberglass composite hull
