Maramu 46 (Amel) Information, Review, Specs

The Amel Maramu 46 had a significant production run from 1978 to 1989, with 288 units built. The design, a collaboration between Henri Amel and Jacques Carteau, aimed to create a serious world cruising vessel. Henri Amel's overarching vision was always to construct sailing yachts that prioritized safety and self-sufficiency for ocean-going adventurers, a principle deeply embedded in the Maramu 46. Amel's manufacturing ethos during this era, and indeed throughout its history, focused on embracing composite materials, specifically fiberglass (GRP) for its durability, making it ideal for ocean voyaging. The company is known for building one design for one purpose in one way, focusing on long journeys and liveaboard comfort. While Amel limited available options on their yachts, post-1985 models of the Maramu sometimes featured articulating whisker poles. There is no public record of significant "MkI vs. MkII" variations, but the design lineage continued with the Super Maramu in the 1990s.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Amel Maramu 46 is a masthead ketch, a rigging type known for its versatility and ease of handling in varying conditions. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.85, the Maramu 46 is not designed for blistering speed in light winds but offers solid performance for its intended purpose as a long-distance cruiser. This ratio suggests a yacht that can maintain comfortable cruising speeds without being overly sensitive to every puff of wind. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.274, while appearing moderate, works in conjunction with her solid fiberglass hull and deep fin keel to provide a stable and seakindly motion, typical of Amel's robust construction. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 274 further categorizes the Maramu 46 as a heavy cruiser. This substantial build contributes to her ability to handle challenging sea states with comfort and stability, rather than prioritizing light-displacement performance. Owners frequently praise the Maramu 46 for its ease of handling, even short-handed, thanks to features like electric genoa furler and oversized sheet winches, allowing for simple sail management in various conditions. The center cockpit design, characteristic of Amel, provides excellent protection and enhances safety during offshore passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The Amel Maramu 46 is known for its spacious and well-appointed interior, designed for liveaboard comfort and extended cruising. The interior joinery is typically crafted from beautiful dark wood, reflecting the brand's commitment to quality finishes. A common layout features a characteristic U-shaped berth in the aft suite, offering excellent storage and often including a desk and large storage spaces, along with an en-suite head. Despite its 46-foot length, Amel typically configured the Maramu 46 with two cabins and two heads, rather than attempting to squeeze in a third cabin, optimizing space and comfort for fewer occupants. The companionway features a high sill and a guillotine-style door, which slides below, providing enhanced security and protection from the elements. Overall, the layout prioritizes functionality and comfort for long voyages, with ample storage throughout and thoughtful arrangements for living at sea.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Amel Maramu 46 consistently praise its solid construction and its exceptional suitability for blue water sailing, often highlighting its ability to be managed short-handed or even single-handed. The boat is frequently described as an "elegant world cruiser" and a "classic" built for circumnavigation. The strong sense of loyalty and dedication fostered by Amel's unique ownership structure (where the company was left to its workers) is reflected in the consistent quality and unique identity cherished by owners. Owners often rely on dedicated forums and groups, such as the Amel Yacht Owners Group, for support and to share knowledge, indicating a highly engaged and supportive community. Common maintenance discussions among owners sometimes involve troubleshooting systems like electric bow furling and boom furling motors, typical for yachts of this vintage with advanced systems for their time. The Maramu 46 is generally considered a highly valued vessel, recognized for its robust build, comfort, and safety on long passages.