Review: Elling 49' "E4"

The ensuite master head is to starboard. This becomes an interesting and functional multi-purpose area. Plenty of mirrors, particular suited for the taller population, cabinets, and Corian counter space. Aft of the toilet is a mechanical compartment that houses the watermaker and inverter, out of the way, yet accessible. Forward on the port side of the head is a large glass enclosed shower although a better door fastener would be preferred which is odd because all of the high quality latches throughout the vessel work impeccably. To starboard of the shower and still forward is a door to a utility closet that has a watertight door to the “generator room” housing the 11kW Onan. Not exactly spacious, but a less than hefty mechanic can service all of the mechanical innards.

The forepeak cabin offers two single beds, cabinets, hanging locker, and an opening hatch for fresh air, natural lighting, or emergency escape. The optional layout includes a double bed plus settee.

The full length twin bunks are plenty sufficient for the kids, grandkiddies, crew or short-term visitors. Generous hanging locker and huge storage in the bilge. There is also one of the large removable wall panels to access the outboard side of the engine. An alternative cabin layout includes an office setup with a desk/berth conversion.

Brilliant! The wine storage is right at the base of the engine access panel Not sure if it will make the engine run happier, but it will the captain for sure! While it looks like 2 open wine lockers, the secondary one is actually a reflection exemplifying the outstanding finish work on the cherry cabinetry. But not to disappoint, forward of the open wine cellar is another identical one. Or for the non-imbibing party-poopers, this of course can be used for backup dry goods and galley stowage.

No stooping over and getting sweaty in this engine room. With the twist of a wrist, the quick release of 4 latches with a supplied tool releases the panel on the inboard side of the galley. For hourly underway checks for temp, fluids, and engine eyeballing, this is a great way to be in the air-conditioned environs. A hinged panel would negate even having to set it aside for the quick visits. For more involved tinkering, remove one and/or two of the other panels for 270 degree access. Low noise and vibration levels are achieved with insulation consisting of multiple layers of wood, rubber, foam, aluminum and silicone and the engine bed being integrally molded into the hull. The Aquadrive anti-vibration drive system plus the Aquamet engine mounts further assure diminution of sound and vibration. The stainless steel shaft and 5 blade nibral prop are custom designed. In addition to the Volvo 435hp, Elling offers several power plant options including a wing engine for plan B.

The Elling E4 is well suited for the entry level boater. With low maintenance and simplicity of systems, a novice would have a short learning curve. The salty sailor would feel at home with the style and speed reminiscent of blow bag boats. For the fuel sucking, big boat crowd looking for economy, this multi-purpose cruiser offers the space and amenities often found in 65 footers. And for all who appreciate quality, the E4 truly offers a Dutch treat.

High five to Elling Yachts… and pass the munchies!

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Review by Judy Waldman​

Specifications:

LOA: 49 ft
Beam: 14 ft
Maximum Draft: 4 ft
Bridge Clearance: 12 ft
Headroom: 6 ft 5 in
Dry Weight: 30000 lbs
Engine: one Volvo Penta 435hp D6 Diesel
Fresh Water Tanks: 230 Gallons
Fuel Tanks: 400 Gallons
Holding Tanks: 40 Gallons


For more information contact:

Neptune Marine
Veerdam 1
5308 JH Aalst (Gld)
Netherlands
+31(0) 418 673 103
home | Neptune Marine

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DETAILS​

Coming up for air, the Elling E4 passes the Nautilus test, then rights itself. On March 14th, 2014, a fully finished Elling E4 will be rolled over "live" in front of the world's marine media. You are also invited to the event; The Elling 360 degree Capsize Challenge...

http://elling360.com/

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Hand laminating the Kevlar armoring in the hull combined with the solid lamination schedule gives Ellings their puncture resistant characteristics. As well, Elling provides a 6 year anti-osmotic blister warranty to their Awlgripped hull; the superstructures are white gel-coat. There are always four Ellings under construction: one each in the laminating hall, painting hall, mechanical build, and in the carpenters’ hall. Construction time is 10 weeks. Let me reiterate that for emphasis: a 49 foot semi-custom luxury yacht can be delivered 10 weeks from order.

That's not a sat dome! As part of a rigorous testing process, a bail () is lowered onto the roof to test structural integrity, pneumatic seals and operation of the roof slide mechanism after being subjected to extreme duress.

How tough is this boat? Unfortunately the bragging rights of the Elling construction were tested … and proven. An owner crashed his Elling into a concrete bridge at a speed of 14 knots. All woodwork in the forward cabin was completely crushed as was the glass fiber in the laminate – however, the Kevlar was still intact. Although the front of the yacht was completely weakened and soft, water didn’t penetrate the Kevlar layer. The vessel returned to the yard on its own bottom where repairs were completed in time to display the yacht at an upcoming boat show. Now that’s a testimonial!

The aft deck is so spacious that one forgets this is only a 49 foot yacht. Bringing the upholstered stools up from the salon allows 6 to be seated comfortably for al fresco dining. Plenty of floor space to increase the party capacity if deck chairs are tucked away in the stowage beneath the dining settee.

Self righting capabilities and bullet proof skin top to bottom fore to aft should reduce the need for a ditch boat scenario, but to keep the thinking ahead philosophy in tact, stowage for the life raft is appropriately located for a fast exit.

Boarding is from the aft deck or from the near amidships port and starboard gates. Beneath each of the gates are steps recessed into the hull that make high and low tide boarding or side deck access from the dinghy easy and safe. I have been at a fixed dock on several occasions where this feature spared me from the leap or stretch that gets old after enough near misses.

The quick release mechanism for engine access is a quarter turn with a key x 4. Fast and easy. I would have a few extra of these little gadgets for backup including one tucked away in the owner’s safe.

Elling E4 Exterior Deck Plan...

Elling E4 Accommodations...