Maxi 999 Information, Review, Specs

The Maxi 999 was produced by Maxi Yachts, a builder founded by the esteemed Swedish sailor and Olympic medalist Pelle Petterson. Production of the Maxi 999 spanned from 1985 to 1991. During this era, Maxi Yachts focused on creating robust vessels with durable fiberglass construction, aiming to provide accessible yet capable cruising yachts. Petterson's design ethos prioritized ingenious interior layouts that offered ample room and standing height, even on boats of this size. The Maxi 999, in particular, features a "slightly more spacy hull design" that contributes to its interior volume. The Maxi 999 also served as the precursor to the later Maxi 1000, which evolved from its successful design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Maxi 999 is characterized by its moderate weight and good performance capabilities, making it a stable and stiff vessel. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.0, the Maxi 999 suggests good performance, especially in lighter air conditions. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 36% indicates a solid level of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 213 further classifies it as a moderately weighted design, contributing to its overall balanced performance.

Equipped with a fractional sloop rig, the Maxi 999 is noted for having a relatively generous sail plan compared to similar sailboats, which can contribute to its speed. Owners often find it easy to sail, partly due to its fractional rig and the potential for a self-tacking jib, allowing most lines to be managed from the cockpit. The boat exhibits superb course stability and hull rigidity, contributing to a secure feel on the water. While generally praised for its speed and handling, some anecdotal reports suggest that the bow might tend to pound or slam in significant waves when sailing close-hauled. Its fin keel design provides excellent maneuverability. Overall, the Maxi 999 is recognized as a fast-sailing family yacht that offers enjoyable performance for various sailing enthusiasts.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its 32-foot length, the Maxi 999 is known for its surprisingly spacious interior, offering comfortable living quarters suitable for extended cruising. The boat typically features a forward owner's cabin with a generous double berth. Aft, there are often two additional cabins, each providing berths with a length of 2.00 meters. The thoughtful design by Pelle Petterson ensures good standing height throughout the cabins, with reported headroom of 1.90 meters (approximately 6.23 feet). The layout usually includes a separate dining area and ample space to move about, showcasing Maxi Yachts' commitment to practicality and comfort. While specific details on interior materials are not universally noted, the boat is generally built with Swedish craftsmanship in mind, implying a focus on durable finishes.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Maxi 999 generally appreciate its combination of comfortable accommodation and capable sailing performance. The boat is frequently described as a friendly family yacht, praised for its ease of handling and robust construction. The generous interior space and multiple cabins are often highlighted as significant strengths, offering more berths and standing room than might be anticipated for a boat of its size. The Maxi 999 is also regarded as a good value on the second-hand market. While overall positive, some owners have noted that the bow can sometimes slam when sailing hard to windward in choppy conditions. The active online forums and associations dedicated to Maxi yachts, including the Maxi 999, indicate a strong community of owners who value the brand's legacy of quality Swedish boat building.