An explorer go-anywhere motoryacht with its distinctive configuration custom-built for a seasoned yachtsman has completed a visit to Belfast Harbour and today is continuing its travels to Co. Donegal, writes Jehan Ashmore.
With a 14,000 nautical mile range, the M.Y. Scintilla Maris can achieve voyages across the oceans. It has a cruising speed of 9 knots that can cover 9,000 nm and a maximum speed of 14 knots. It was launched in 2023 by Damen Maaskant in the Netherlands, which also built its recycled 45.6 m trawler steel hull that incorporates state-of-the-art technology in electric propulsion, navigation equipment, and vessel management systems.
The luxury yacht charter and sales broker, Burgess, which celebrates its 50th anniversary, has the 499 gross tons M.Y. Scintilla Maris listed for sale on the market for an asking price of €18,950,000. Its 8 crew serve those on-board surroundings that Burgess describes as the epitome of comfort, quality, and seakeeping characteristics, with refined interior and exterior amenities that make for an alluring combination of a superyacht.
Afloat has identified the fishing number of the former beam trawler as the HD-23, having consulted the broker’s website pictorial. A model of its previous role is on display among the 4 decks, comprising a sun deck, bridge deck, and the main and lower decks, where its overall appearance still strongly resembles its hard-working fishing role.
The 10-guest M.Y. Scintilla Maris previously toured off the Scottish west coast, taking in stunning scenery while leisurely at anchor off locations, among them North Ballachulish and Lismore, both on Loch Linnhe and Loch Melfort, and before Belfast, Afloat also tracked a call that took place off Cushendun, Co. Antrim.
On the main deck, there is a welcoming, full 9 m beam main galley that features a design as a ‘country kitchen’ to foster culinary interactions with its chef.
Large glass doors connect the lounge to the motor yacht's amidships-located beach club; this is where fishing gear and the hold were once occupied. Guests can indulge in an outdoor shaded ‘paradise’ with a lounge area, a bar, a galley, and water-level boarding platforms. In this area, which is bordered by two sides, stepless access to the water is permitted for tenders and toys. Its setting is invitingly suitable for social activities, be it for barbecuing, al fresco dining, or formal gatherings along with sunset cocktails.
There is also an outside cinema to entertain guests late into the night.
On the outdoor Portuguese bridge, ambient heating is provided, and on the main deck aft, there is an observation platform for 6 people located 15 m above sea level.
Accommodation is for 5 cabins, including a master suite, which is based on 3 x doubles and 2 x twins, and all are located on the lower deck. The amidships master suite boasts a 1.5m diameter skylight and a lofty 2.4m ceiling height, while the other cabins with portholes are separated from the master suite but located ahead near the bow.
The Marshall Islands-flagged vessel has hybrid propulsion and dynamic positioning (DP) systems and has the following green credentials with a RINA CY Class/Green Plus and is Polar Code compliant.
