Design and Construction
The hull is solid, hand-laid glass-reinforced plastic with an integrated wing keel and a protected skeg-hung rudder constructed of solid, hand-laid glass reinforced plastic. Amel's proprietary flat-woven biaxial cloth produces a laminate stronger than standard chopped-strand mat, and the solid GRP layup is credited with long-term durability. Five watertight bulkheads compartment the hull so that a collision need not flood the whole boat. The deck carries Amel's molded synthetic "faux-teak" surface, which gives secure grip when wet and demands far less upkeep than real wood, though edges can occasionally lift or show wear. The wing keel holds the centre of gravity low while keeping draft to 6 feet 9 inches.
Rig and Handling
The ketch rig carries 1,377 square feet of upwind sail area across a 409-square-foot mainsail, 764-square-foot genoa, and 204-square-foot mizzen, with electric furling on all three. From the helm, almost every sail function is managed at the touch of a button, and the unique rigging setup places individual loads low and manageable. The SA/D ratio of 19.1 and D/L of 223 confirm a heavy cruiser tuned for comfort and safety over light-air velocity prioritize comfort and safety over light-air speed. Under the 100 hp Yanmar, many 2000 models cruise at 7 to 8 knots, and a retractable bow thruster aids close-quarters control. The midships "Amel Drive" C-drive transmission centers machinery weight and exits the shaft horizontally.
Accommodations
Most boats left the yard in the standard Owner's Version: two large cabins and two heads, with the aft owner's stateroom a genuine sanctuary around a large double berth and en-suite standard "Owner's Version" layout with two large cabins and two heads. The deep, centrally placed cockpit is nearly enclosed by a hard windscreen and dodger, a layout that keeps the crew protected. A U-shaped galley offers deep sinks and bracing points for rough-water cooking, while abundant storage spans huge lazarettes and lockers. Exceptional volume and rare systems integration distinguish the interior from typical cruisers of the era.
Known Issues
The Amel Drive demands attention: oil leaks and seal condition should be checked, as a neglected unit can require a costly rebuild. Electrical complexity follows from the yacht's heavy reliance on 24V systems and electric furlers—wiring and all winch and furler motors warrant inspection. The retractable bow thruster must deploy and retract smoothly; left unused, it becomes a common failure point. Standing rigging uses a unique setup, and the age of the stays should be verified since many insurers require renewal around the ten-year mark.
Refits and Ownership
Late-production "Red Line" boats added technical and aesthetic refinements such as improved electronics and interior finishes. Amel's after-sales department in La Rochelle still supplies parts and advice for the class, a meaningful ownership backstop. With 158 gallons of fuel and 264 gallons of water, the specification supports extended independent cruising.
The Verdict
The Super Maramu 2000 is a purpose-built ocean voyager that trades light-air sparkle for structural compartmentation, protected helm ergonomics, and push-button sail handling a couple can manage. Its systems density and unique drivetrain reward owners who stay ahead of seal and wiring maintenance.
Pros
- Five watertight bulkheads and solid GRP hull for collision survivability
- Deep, windscreen-protected cockpit with near-total sail control from the helm
- Midships C-drive and retractable bow thruster for weight balance and docking
- La Rochelle after-sales support still active for parts and technical advice
Cons
- Amel Drive seals and 24V electrical system need disciplined inspection
- Bow thruster seizes if not exercised; rigging stays need age verification
- Heavy displacement and moderate SA/D prioritize comfort over light-air speed
