Motiva 57 Information, Review, Specs

The 57 was developed as a natural progression from the Motiva 56, utilizing a similar hull form but often incorporating refined deck layouts and extended aft sections to accommodate larger machinery and fuel capacities. Because Motiva occasionally offered hulls for owner-completion or utilized the Tony Dahl Yard for high-end bespoke joinery, no two Motiva 57s are identical. However, they all share the fundamental DNA of a "go-anywhere" ship, capable of weathering North Sea gales while maintaining a high level of interior comfort.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Motiva 57 are defined by its massive displacement and high ballast-to-displacement ratio. With a hull weight often exceeding 30 tons depending on the fit-out, the 57 exhibits extreme sea-kindliness; it does not "bounce" through a chop but rather moves with a deliberate, dampened motion that reduces crew fatigue. According to technical assessments of Arne Borghegn’s designs, the semi-long keel and protected rudder provide exceptional tracking, allowing the boat to hold its course even in a following sea where lighter yachts might struggle with yawing.

Under sail, the ketch rig is the preferred configuration for this model, as it breaks the sail area into smaller, more manageable increments for a shorthand crew. While it is not a "pointing" machine and typically requires a stiff breeze to overcome its inertia, the 57 excels on a reach. In light air, the vessel is designed to operate as a true motorsailer; its large internal fuel tanks and powerful engine (often in the 150-200 HP range) allow it to maintain high cruising speeds when the wind dies. The transition between sailing and motoring is seamless, and the pilothouse offers a secondary steering station that allows the navigator to maintain a watch in total climate-controlled comfort.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Motiva 57 is where the Danish commitment to "hygge" and nautical practicality converge. The centerpiece is the raised deck saloon or pilothouse, which provides 360-degree visibility—a feature that transforms the experience of long-distance voyaging by keeping the crew out of the elements. Because of the 57’s significant beam and steel construction, the interior volume is comparable to much larger fiberglass yachts, offering expansive stowage and massive tankage hidden beneath the floorboards.

Standard layouts typically feature a palatial aft owner’s cabin with a center-line berth and en-suite head, a large linear or U-shaped galley in the walk-through, and multiple guest cabins forward. The use of solid teak or mahogany joinery is a hallmark of the shipyard-finished models. Prospective buyers should note that because some hulls were sold for private fit-out, the quality of the "living experience" can vary significantly; shipyard-finished boats (often linked to the Tony Dahl Yard) command a premium for their superior cabinetry and integrated systems.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

The primary concern for any prospective Motiva 57 buyer is the integrity of the steel hull. While Motiva’s construction standards were exceptionally high, steel requires diligent maintenance to prevent oxidation from the inside out.

• Ultrasonic Hull Survey: A specialized surveyor must perform an ultrasonic thickness test (audio gauge) across the entire hull, focusing on the "turn of the bilge" and areas under the chain lockers where moisture often traps against the steel.
• Insulation and Condensation: Early steel boats can suffer from "sweating" if the insulation is not continuous. Buyers should inspect behind the cabinetry for signs of "ice-point" condensation or rust streaks originating from the frames.
• Teak Deck Longevity: Many Motiva 57s were fitted with teak decks over the steel sub-deck. If the fastenings have compromised the steel or if water has become trapped between the teak and the metal, significant localized corrosion can occur. Inspect for "bleeding" rust stains on the deck's vertical surfaces.
• Complex Systems: As a flagship model, the 57 often carries complex hydraulic systems (bow thrusters, furling) and extensive 24V/220V electrical grids. A thorough audit of the wiring and hydraulic hoses is essential, as many of these vessels are now reaching the age where "original" systems require replacement.

Community & Resources

While Motiva Yachts remains a niche builder, the brand enjoys a dedicated following among the "Steel Boat" community. Owners often congregate in informal networks such as the Motiva Owners Group or technical forums like CruisersForum, where the specific nuances of Arne Borghegn’s designs are discussed. Because the yard is still located in Lunderskov, Denmark, it remains the ultimate authority for technical drawings and historical build data for the 57 model.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Ocean-Going Security: The "tank-like" steel construction provides peace of mind that fiberglass cannot match in hitting debris or ice.
• Pilothouse Luxury: Exceptional 360-degree visibility and climate control for all-season cruising.
• Massive Volume: Huge storage capacities for fuel, water, and provisions make it a premier circumnavigator.
• Danish Craftsmanship: High-quality joinery and a timeless aesthetic.

Cons:

• High Maintenance: Steel requires constant vigilance regarding paint systems and corrosion prevention.
• Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement makes the boat sluggish in winds under 10-12 knots without engine assistance.
• Draft and Weight: Its size and weight limit options for smaller marinas and shallow-water cruising grounds.