The second new design is by Nick Mezas and is available in three sizes of 18, 20 and 24 metres. "Over the past 20 years, Moonen - like many yards - has seen the length of our boats pushed upwards by its clients," says Bilterijst. "This has an inevitable impact on the organisation, product, quality levels and costs. We have had several enquiries from entry level owners, and it is vital that we do not price ourselves out of this area." This new semi-series of smaller vessels will be built to CE regulations rather than class. Although there will be no change in terms of quality ("we can't build anything less than Moonen quality," says Bilterijst), the designs benefit from a careful analysis of systems and equipment. The boats will, for example, feature only one anchor instead of two in a pocket as is usually the case with Moonen yachts, which in turn means just one anchor winch.
"A lower price and smaller yacht will attract a younger public," expects Bilterijst. "This is also the thinking behind the more aggressive styling, while simultaneously retaining the essence of Moonen quality in terms of fuel savings, low noise and vibration levels, and the exceptional comfort of a round bilged hull. We anticipate that these clients will probably steer the boat themselves and travel with young children. The yachts will be fitted with Volvo IPS propulsion, so the engine room is placed far aft. They will fit seamlessly within our fast displacement philosophy and be capable of reaching 22 knots." The IPS configuration leaves lots of space free in the forward section for four cabins. This is in line with the idea that there is unlikely to be a full-time crew onboard. An open-plan layout in the saloon/wheelhouse area also reflects the social aspect of the owner and his friends/family at the helm.
For more information:
Moonen Yachts
Graaf van Solmsweg 52F
5222 BP 's-Hertogenbosch
The Netherlands
Moonen - Home
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