Cruising the world is possible on all sorts of vessel sizes. Some production boatbuilders, in fact, have intrepid customers. In noting the growing number of explorer-design contracts, Malcolm McKeon’s design studio decided to apply its expertise. It’s doing so, though, in a bit of a different way. Rather than design a big yacht for big adventures, it created the MMX45 in a more manageable and broadly appealing package.
The MMX45 measures 149 feet (45.4 meters), a length that often falls below the 500-gross-ton threshold. This length also often equates to smaller owners’ parties, and smaller manning requirements. In this case, the studio includes three guest staterooms in addition to the master suite. The master suite, as you might expect, sits on the main deck, with side and forward ports to take in the ever-changing environment. A further set of cabins houses the crew of five.
To ensure few boundaries exist for exploring, the MMX45 should see a 5,000-nautical-mile range at a 12-knot cruise. This makes ocean crossing, whether the Atlantic, Pacific, or other big body of water, perfectly possible. Top speed, should a boost be needed, is expected to be 18 knots. Of course, the hull design is an important component of performance. Since McKeon has a strong background in designing efficient sailing yachts, he applied the same principles. (On a related side note, one such sailing yacht is the “no-compromise” Royal Huisman Project 404.)
Since large-scale expeditions are her focus, naturally the MMX45 will carry plenty of support craft. Of course, McKeon will work with a customer to ensure tender bays and on-deck areas can carry, say, submarines, big tenders, diving equipment, and more. But, do note that he includes a hefty-capacity crane for on-deck toy stowage, as illustrated above.
To ensure guests enjoy these expeditions just as much inside the yacht, the MMX45 features an elevated bridge and observation deck. With unobstructed views all around, imagine yourself checking out polar bears, or sea turtles, or whatever Mother Nature has in store.
Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design .malcolmmckeonyachtdesign.com
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