Motiva 47 Information, Review, Specs

The Motiva 47 began its production in 2002, emerging from Motiva Yachts' shipyard in Lunderskov, Denmark. Motiva has historically focused on building durable steel yachts, a philosophy clearly evident in the Motiva 47's construction. The builder's ethos centers on producing long-lasting, high-quality vessels, a dedication that sets them apart from many who transitioned to fiberglass. The company's shipbuilding process emphasizes meticulous hull construction, designed to withstand the rigors of ocean passages. Arne Borghegn, a pivotal figure in Motiva's design legacy, contributed his expertise to the Motiva 47, ensuring it adhered to the brand's identity as a capable and comfortable motorsailer. The hull of the Motiva 47 features a fin keel and is rigged as a masthead ketch, a configuration often chosen for its versatility and ease of handling in varying conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While specific sail area figures for the Motiva 47 are not consistently reported, its substantial displacement of 47,178 lbs, combined with a length overall of 46.26 ft and a waterline length of 37.73 ft, firmly places it in the heavy displacement category. This is reflected in an exceptionally high Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 879, indicating a very solid, traditional cruiser built for comfort and safety in a seaway rather than high-performance sailing. The ballast to displacement ratio stands at approximately 0.27, which, while not indicative of extreme stiffness, is coupled with the inherent stability of a heavy steel hull.

The ketch rig, a hallmark of the Motiva 47, contributes significantly to its sailing characteristics, offering flexibility in sail plan management and enhanced comfort, particularly when sailing downwind or on a broad reach. Designed as a "large motorsailer," the Motiva 47 is intended to provide a stable and secure platform, capable of handling challenging conditions with composure. Owners can expect a comfortable motion and good directional stability, making it well-suited for long-distance cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The Motiva 47's hull design is noted for being "spacy," suggesting a generous interior volume for a vessel of its size. While detailed cabin layouts are not widely published, Motiva Yachts, in collaboration with the Tony Dahl Yard, typically provided meticulously fitted interiors, known for their high standard of finish and thoughtful arrangements. These often featured robust wood trim and sturdy materials, aligning with the brand's focus on durability and comfort. Given Motiva's reputation for building pilothouse yachts with inner steering positions, it is likely that the Motiva 47 offers enhanced protection and comfort in adverse weather, though specific details on its maximum headroom or exact cabin configuration are not readily available in public specifications. The general design philosophy points towards practical and comfortable living spaces suitable for extended periods aboard.