NEW BOATS - MAORI 75
If recent developments at some of the top Euro-builders are anything to go by, the modern sportscruiser is taking on an entirely new shape. Think the Wally powerboats, or Windy’s SR52 — or even its Windy Zonda unveiled last month. Yes, the era of plastic tubs with ample horsepower is coming to an end, replaced with sleek, lithe, low dayboats and weekenders that look as good as the wives of those who own them.
Enter Maori Yachts, an Italian builder aiming to capitalise on this trend for Mediterranean stunners with its new Maori 75, which it describes as — yes, you guessed it — a dayboat. Designed by Italian studio Nauta Yacht Design, the Maori 75 is the new flagship for the yard, which also builds a Maori 50 with plans for a baby 37 on the boards.
At 75 feet, you might think that the 75 would offer a wealth of conveniences — multiple cabins, flybridge, tennis court — but no, the concept is very definitely for those who like sociable outings with a large number of friends in warm climes. The expansive deck area is offered with either a T-top and bimini or a hardtop, and gives guests a choice of lounging and sunbathing areas — and it even has a ‘diving area’ at the stern.
This is not to say that there isn’t more to the 75, and in spite of its low freeboard — designed to enhance the connection with the sea — it does have a series of interior compartments, each with its own access. Aft is a crew cabin, while forward lies a guest cabin. The star of the show, though, is the midships owners suite, a wide, expansive room with hull strip windows and a contemporary ultra-light ambiance.
Power comes from twin MAN engines driving waterjets to give an estimated top speed of 32kts and a cruise speed of 28kts. — Tim Thomas