Bluewater motor yachts are specifically designed for long-distance ocean cruising, offering durability, comfort, and self-sufficiency. Selecting the right yacht involves considering factors such as seaworthiness, range, amenities, and maintenance requirements. Below is a curated list of eight exceptional bluewater motor yachts, each offering unique features tailored to discerning cruisers.
8 Best Bluewater Motor Yachts
1. Nordhavn 120
The Nordhavn 120 is a luxury expedition yacht renowned for its robust construction and long-range capabilities. Designed for global exploration, it combines comfort with the ability to navigate challenging oceanic conditions.
Specifications:
- Length Overall (LOA): 36.58 meters (120 feet)
- Beam: 8.53 meters (28 feet)
- Draft: 2.13 meters (7 feet)
- Displacement: Approximately 500 gross tons
- Cruising Speed: 10 knots
- Range: Up to 4,000 nautical miles
- Fuel Capacity: Approximately 45,000 liters
- Water Capacity: Approximately 5,700 liters
- Accommodation: Up to 12 guests in 5 staterooms
- Crew: Up to 6 crew members
Analysis:
The Nordhavn 120’s steel hull and full-displacement design ensure stability and safety in rough seas. Its efficient fuel consumption allows for extended voyages without frequent refueling stops. The yacht’s expansive interior spaces are thoughtfully designed to provide luxurious living quarters, dining areas, and recreational facilities, making it ideal for long-term cruising.
2. Ocean Alexander 90R
The Ocean Alexander 90R is a sleek, modern motor yacht that blends performance with elegance. Designed for the discerning cruiser, it offers a combination of speed and comfort suitable for extensive ocean travel.
Specifications:
- Length Overall (LOA): 27.43 meters (90 feet)
- Beam: 6.71 meters (22 feet)
- Draft: 1.68 meters (5.5 feet)
- Displacement: Approximately 200 gross tons
- Cruising Speed: 12 knots
- Range: Approximately 3,000 nautical miles
- Fuel Capacity: Approximately 30,000 liters
- Water Capacity: Approximately 4,500 liters
- Accommodation: Up to 8 guests in 4 staterooms
- Crew: Up to 4 crew members
Analysis:
The Ocean Alexander 90R’s fiberglass hull and planing design provide a smooth and efficient ride, balancing speed with fuel efficiency. Its spacious flybridge and open aft deck are perfect for entertaining, while the interior boasts contemporary styling and high-end finishes.
3. Sunseeker 131 Yacht
The Sunseeker 131 Yacht is a luxurious motor yacht that exemplifies British craftsmanship. With its striking design and powerful performance, it caters to those seeking both adventure and opulence on the water.
Specifications:
- Length Overall (LOA): 40 meters (131 feet)
- Beam: 8.1 meters (26.6 feet)
- Draft: 2.5 meters (8.2 feet)
- Displacement: Approximately 300 gross tons
- Cruising Speed: 14 knots
- Range: Approximately 2,500 nautical miles
- Fuel Capacity: Approximately 40,000 liters
- Water Capacity: Approximately 6,000 liters
- Accommodation: Up to 10 guests in 5 staterooms
- Crew: Up to 7 crew members
Analysis:
The Sunseeker 131’s deep-V hull design ensures excellent sea-keeping abilities, making it suitable for bluewater cruising. Its expansive sundeck, jacuzzi, and beach club area provide luxurious amenities, while the interior features bespoke furnishings and state-of-the-art technology.
4. Benetti Oasis 34M
The Benetti Oasis 34M is a modern motor yacht that combines Italian elegance with innovative design. Its spacious layout and advanced technology make it a top choice for long-distance cruising.
Specifications:
- Length Overall (LOA): 34 meters (111.5 feet)
- Beam: 7.6 meters (24.9 feet)
- Draft: 2.2 meters (7.2 feet)
- Displacement: Approximately 250 gross tons
- Cruising Speed: 12 knots
- Range: Approximately 3,500 nautical miles
- Fuel Capacity: Approximately 35,000 liters
- Water Capacity: Approximately 5,500 liters
- Accommodation: Up to 12 guests in 6 staterooms
- Crew: Up to 6 crew members
Analysis:
The Benetti Oasis 34M’s GRP hull and semi-displacement design offer a balance between speed and stability. Its expansive main deck features an open-plan layout, and the beach club area with a swimming pool enhances the onboard experience.
5. Riviera 78 Motor Yacht
The Riviera 78 Motor Yacht is an Australian-built luxury vessel designed for long-range cruising. Combining innovative design with robust construction, it offers a blend of performance and comfort suitable for bluewater voyages.
Specifications:
- Length Overall (LOA): 23.77 meters (78 feet)
- Beam: 6.18 meters (20.3 feet)
- Draft: 1.8 meters (5.9 feet)
- Displacement: Approximately 105 gross tons
- Cruising Speed: Up to 29 knots
- Range: Approximately 1,000 nautical miles
- Fuel Capacity: Approximately 9,500 liters
- Water Capacity: Approximately 1,000 liters
- Accommodation: Up to 8 guests in 4 staterooms
- Crew: Up to 3 crew members
Analysis:
The Riviera 78’s deep-V hull design ensures stability and a smooth ride in various sea conditions, making it suitable for bluewater cruising. Its powerful engines provide impressive speed, while the spacious interior and exterior areas offer luxurious living and entertainment spaces. The yacht’s design emphasizes ease of handling, allowing owners and crew to manage long-distance voyages with confidence.
6. Swan 58
The Swan 58 is a Finnish-built sailboat designed by Germán Frers, intended as a bluewater cruiser. Introduced in 2020, it combines performance with comfort, appealing to sailors seeking reliable ocean-going capabilities.
Specifications:
- Length Overall (LOA): 18.99 meters (62.70 feet)
- Length at Waterline (LWL): 17.09 meters (56.07 feet)
- Beam: 5.27 meters (17.29 feet)
- Draft: 2.7 meters (8.86 feet) with standard keel
- Displacement: Approximately 25,400 kilograms (55,997 pounds)
- Engine: Volvo D3-150 150hp diesel
- Sail Area Upwind: Approximately 214 square meters (2,304 square feet)
- Accommodation: Available in three or four-cabin layouts
Analysis:
The Swan 58’s construction utilizes vacuum-infused fiberglass with carbon fiber reinforcement, ensuring durability and performance. Its design emphasizes safety and comfort, featuring a well-protected cockpit and spacious interior. The yacht’s performance-oriented hull and rigging allow for efficient cruising, appealing to those seeking both speed and reliability on long passages.
7. Leen 56 Power Trimaran
The Leen 56 Power Trimaran is a French-designed motor yacht known for its innovative trimaran hull configuration. Designed for bluewater cruising, it offers exceptional stability and space.
Specifications:
- Length Overall (LOA): 17.07 meters (56 feet)
- Beam: 11.58 meters (38 feet)
- Draft: 1.2 meters (3.9 feet)
- Displacement: Approximately 22 metric tons
- Cruising Speed: Up to 20 knots
- Range: Approximately 1,500 nautical miles
- Fuel Capacity: Approximately 4,000 liters
- Water Capacity: Approximately 800 liters
- Accommodation: Up to 6 guests in 3 cabins
- Crew: Up to 2 crew members
Analysis:
The trimaran design of the Leen 56 provides remarkable stability and a spacious deck area, enhancing onboard comfort. Its efficient hull shape contributes to fuel savings and extended cruising range. The yacht’s layout is optimized for long-term living, with ample storage and comfortable living spaces, making it a strong contender for those seeking a reliable bluewater cruiser.
8. Greenline Ocean Class 68
The Greenline Ocean Class 68 is a Slovenian-built motor yacht emphasizing sustainability and efficiency. Designed for long-distance cruising, it incorporates hybrid propulsion technology.
Specifications:
- Length Overall (LOA): 20.73 meters (68 feet)
- Beam: 5.5 meters (18 feet)
- Draft: 1.5 meters (4.9 feet)
- Displacement: Approximately 35 metric tons
- Cruising Speed: Up to 18 knots
- Range: Approximately 1,200 nautical miles
- Fuel Capacity: Approximately 3,500 liters
- Water Capacity: Approximately 600 liters
- Accommodation: Up to 8 guests in 4 cabins
- Crew: Up to 2 crew members
Analysis:
The Greenline Ocean Class 68 stands out for its hybrid propulsion system, combining twin 1,000hp diesel engines with dual 60kW electric motors. This configuration allows for silent, emission-free cruising at speeds up to 7 knots, with a range of approximately 40 nautical miles on electric power alone, thanks to its 138kWh battery bank. The yacht’s Category A rating ensures its capability to navigate open oceans safely.
Conclusion:
Selecting the right bluewater motor yacht involves balancing performance, comfort, and reliability. The models discussed—Greenline Ocean Class 68, Leen 56 Power Trimaran, Riviera 78 Motor Yacht, Swan 58, and Leen 51—each offer unique features tailored to different cruising preferences. Whether prioritizing sustainability, innovative design, or luxurious amenities, these yachts provide compelling options for discerning mariners seeking exceptional bluewater cruising experiences.
