Super Maramu 2000 (Amel) Information, Review, Specs

Produced from 1999 to 2005, the Super Maramu 2000 built upon the legacy of its predecessor, incorporating a range of improvements to its interior layout and equipment levels.

History and Design

The Super Maramu 2000 emerged from Amel's shipyard in La Rochelle, France, a company founded by Henri Amel in 1965 with a foundational commitment to building robust, comfortable, and easily managed sailing yachts. Henri Amel himself was the primary designer for most Amel models, including the Super Maramu series, instilling his philosophy of uncompromising quality, innovation, and self-sufficiency into every vessel. The Super Maramu 2000 specifically, an updated version of the 1989 Super Maramu, reflects Amel's continuous dedication to refining their blue water cruising designs.

A hallmark of Amel's design ethos, prominently featured in the Super Maramu 2000, is the well-protected center cockpit, often integrated with a substantial dodger, which provides exceptional safety and comfort in challenging sea conditions. This design choice is a testament to Amel's deep understanding of the needs of serious cruisers. Amel also distinguishes itself by its early and consistent adoption of fiberglass (GRP) for hull and deck construction, known for its durability in ocean voyaging. During its production run, a common engine upgrade was from the standard Yanmar 4JH4-HE (78 HP) to the more powerful Yanmar 4JH3-HTE (100 HP), with about 80% of the fleet eventually featuring the 100 HP engine, which became standard in 2003. The Super Maramu 2000 was recognized for its excellence, being voted "Best Boat of the Year" by the American review Cruising World.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Amel Super Maramu 2000, with its ketch rig and substantial displacement, is designed for comfortable, capable offshore passages rather than outright speed. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.45, she suggests good performance in lighter winds for a cruiser of her size, providing sufficient canvas to keep moving without being overly sensitive. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of approximately 34.4% indicates a moderate level of stiffness, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway, a hallmark of Amel's design. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 223.36 firmly places her in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser, signifying a robust and substantial vessel capable of handling diverse ocean conditions.

The hull speed of 8.61 knots, coupled with her design ratios, indicates a yacht built for steady, predictable progress over long distances. Owners generally praise the Super Maramu 2000 for its excellent balance and ease of handling, particularly due to features like her ketch rig which offers versatile sail plans for different wind conditions. The fully enclosed center cockpit also enhances safety and comfort for the crew, especially in adverse weather.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Amel Super Maramu 2000 reflects Amel's commitment to luxurious and practical accommodations designed for extended liveaboard comfort. While specific headroom figures are not provided in the data, Amel yachts are known for their spacious interiors. Typical layouts feature a large owner's cabin aft, often with a generous offset double berth and an en-suite head, providing a private and comfortable retreat. Forward, a spacious saloon serves as the central living area, characterized by quality joinery, often in African Mahogany, showcasing Amel's attention to detail and robust finish quality.

The galley is typically well-equipped and designed for functionality at sea, often featuring ample counter space and storage. Additional cabins, often a V-berth or Pullman berth forward, provide accommodations for guests, usually with a dedicated forward head. Throughout the interior, Amel prioritizes practical storage solutions, often integrating numerous lockers and drawers. Ventilation is typically well-addressed with a combination of overhead hatches and portlights. The overall impression is one of solid construction, durable materials, and a layout optimized for long-distance cruising comfort and self-sufficiency.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Amel Super Maramu 2000 consistently praise its legendary build quality and the solid, safe feeling it instills, particularly in challenging ocean conditions. Many commend the vessel's capability as a true blue water cruiser, highlighting its comfortable motion, robust systems, and the protection offered by the signature center cockpit. The ease of handling, often attributed to the ketch rig and well-thought-out deck hardware, is another frequently cited strength, allowing for manageable single or short-handed sailing.

However, common maintenance aspects noted by owners, as with any complex vessel of its age, include potential issues with original equipment that may require updating or servicing, such as engine components (despite the reliable Yanmar, routine checks are essential), and general wear and tear on rigging and seals over time. Some owners have discussed maintenance topics like C-drive seals and bilge pump problems in online forums, indicating areas that might require attention for an older vessel. The passionate global community of Amel owners, including dedicated forums and groups, further supports prospective and current owners with shared knowledge and advice, reflecting a high degree of confidence and satisfaction with the Amel ownership experience.