Here’s hull number two of Moonen’s 97-foot steel displacement cruiser line, Sofia II. She launched in November, for repeat clients of the yard who are stepping up from an 84. This launch comes just a few months after the first in the series, Darsea, premiered. (See this video of Darsea for more details.)
Moonen developed the 97 based largely on the four-stateroom layout of the 84, but also on the greater interior volume afforded by the Custom Moonen 96 Clementine. The series is targeted to clients seeking a long-range yacht between Moonen’s 72- and 124-footers. Styling comes courtesy of René van der Velden Design over a round-bilge hull by Diana Yacht Design.
Since Moonen builds its megayachts on a semicustom basis, Sofia II does bear some differences in comparison to Darsea. For one, her flying bridge extends out over the main aft deck. She also has a folding bimini instead of a hardtop the way Darsea does and two tender cranes compared to just one. Inside, maple trim, instead of wenge, accentuates the cherry paneling, and the galley and guest staterooms are configured a bit differently. It’s also interesting to note that Sofia II is the first Moonen to feature a Night Navigator3 thermal-imaging system, for enhanced night vision and security.
Delivery is set for early 2009.
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