The efforts that Moonen has been making to attract customers from American shores is paying off. Hull number nine of the Moonen 122 Martinique series, which sold late last year to U.S. buyers, is 10 months from completion.
The series derives part of its name from its length, a little over 122 feet (37.4 meters). Like the rest of Moonen’s models, the yacht bears a steel hull and aluminum superstructure. These two just joined together, in fact, last week at Moonen’s shipyard in the southern region of The Netherlands. This paves the way for outfitting to begin, with piping, mechanical systems, and of course the interior being installed over the coming months.
The owners, who have cruised aboard various yachts from global shipyards, chose the ninth Moonen 122 Martinique yacht for a few reasons. Firstly, the semi-custom nature of the build was a big attraction. They’re opting for a full-beam master suite, two VIP staterooms, and two twin staterooms. Additionally, with the design team from Vripack, they’re creating a light and airy, calm environment. This should accentuate the 345-gross-ton volume.
Yet another highlight for the owners, a main-deck galley and pantry that aren’t squeezed in amid the guest spaces. Similarly, they’re looking forward to enjoying the spacious sundeck, affording 700 square feet (65 square meters) of relaxation. In fact, they requested the installation of a custom hot tub up here.
While the Martinique series has been quite successful for the Dutch builder, its broadened customer horizons have been as well. In 2024, Moonen began focusing more strongly on the American market. This followed the yard’s owners, Australia-based Matthew and Louise Baxter, discovering the traditional cruising focus and relatively traditional styling resonated stateside. The owners of the ninth Moonen 122 Martinique yacht are among a handful of U.S. clients currently with projects in build there.
Lastly, but not the least reason, the owners appreciated the ability to enjoy long, leisurely cruising. The pocket-size superyacht has a best range of 4,000 nautical miles at 10 knots.
In related news, hull number 10 in the series recently began construction, with delivery available next summer. To get a sense of what the spaces and styling are like, you can book a visit aboard the yacht Ad Astra at the upcoming Palm Beach International Boat Show. She, too, is a Moonen 122 Martinique megayacht, seeing delivery last year. Her owner, who’s also American, pays homage to Ad Astra’s country of origin through an orange bootstripe. Moonen is exhibiting the yacht with IYC, its U.S. sales representative.
IYC iyc.com
Moonen Yachts moonen.com
Vripack vripack.com
More About the Moonen 122 Martinique Yacht Hull 9
LOA: 122’8” (37.38 meters)
Beam: 26’0” (8 meters)
Draft: 7’0” (2.15 meters)
Guests: 12 in 5 staterooms
Engines: 2/1,900-hp Caterpillars
Range: 4,000 nautical miles at 10 knots
Builder: Moonen
Stylist: René van der Velden
Naval Architect: Diana Yacht Design
Interior Designer: Vripack