The Moody 64, the new flagship of the Moody Yachts International range, made its debut this morning at the Southampton Boat Show. Built by Princess Yachts, in collaboration with Moody, this new cruising yacht is the largest the company has ever produced and, according to Moody, looks set to open exciting opportunities and markets for the company.

At £900,000 this new Bill Dixon-designed cruising yacht, aimed at the budget end of the large cruising market has already attracted four orders. The first boat is heading straight for the Canary Islands in October for the start of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) in November.

While this new boat features all the cruising comforts you would expect, there was a distinct overall ‘unfinished’ feel which is surprising from Moody, a company more usually noted for its attention to detail finish. Understandably the boat on the stand is the first off the mould but the uneven gelcoat finish of the hull and wood shavings in the lockers were definite ‘I’ve been finished in a hurry’ giveaways.

Down below in the main saloon, the teak woodwork is complimented by cream leather furnishings which surround the round, expanding table which provides the centrepiece. In the galley everything is provided including a microwave, large freezer, a wine bottle stage (for 40 bottles) and ample space for a dishwasher. And because, unlike a racing boat, weight is not such an issue, the working surface is cut from relatively heavy Avonite.

The en-suite owner/master cabin, with its double berth and acres of hanging/storage is situated aft, while the guest cabin and the four remaining berths, two of which could be used for staff, are positioned forward.

The 230hp Yanmar diesel is housed in an engine space off the main corridor aft, opposite the office area which doubles as a spare bunk room if required.

While we have yet to test sail this new boat, Simon Limb (Princess Yacht International’s sales manager in the sailboat division) was keen to point out that the 64 performs well, is light on the helm and clocked an average of 9 knots on the delivery trip from Plymouth.

For more details, contact Moody Yachts International at www.moody.eu.com .