Looking at Amel boats 52ft model what is the difference in the models

videorov · #1 (**permalink**) 06-03-2008

in the 50ft range up to the 54ft. Just wonder what is different about the layout of the boats. Im thinking around a 52ft which is my price range looks like.
The 54 is a bit to high for me. Looks like the boat has many features.
Im looking to cruise and liveaboard for 5 to 6 months at a time while Im away from the Idaho winters.

Moonfish · #2 (**permalink**) 06-03-2008

I'm unsure of what the differences are, as I have only been aboard a couple of the 54s at the Miami boat show. But whichever model you end up getting, if you get tired of it, you can always give it to me...

Can you tell I'm a big fan of Amels?

videorov · #3 (**permalink**) 06-03-2008

They seem to more in range of my price. They sure do have lots of extras
on them which is standard on those boats seems. Two freezer etc I like back up stuff.The roller furling on all sails is nice for me, I have to man it all sometimes. Looks like a great boat to test and design my new underwater
panning camera system while relaxing in the Bahamas. Maybe go to the pacific
islands and chat back over the ham radio to my buds. Go see my friend in Thialand and hang out and operate ham radio form over there. I could put some of the rare pacific island on the air with a dx pedition. I can think of many things to use it for and sell some of my remote control underwater panning cameras on the way.

JohnRPollard · #4 (**permalink**) 06-03-2008

I'm not familiar with the 52.

Since the mid/late-90's until recently, Amel had been marketing only the 53. It was called the Super Maramu. The final version of the 53 was called the Super Maramu Millenium, which came out around the turn of the century/millenium. There may have been some noteworthy differences, but as far as I know the "Millenium" package was the same boat as the previous 53s, but with all the upgraded bells/whistles/goodies included and system improvements. Definitely the same hull.

About a year or two ago, the 53 was discontinued and replaced by the 54, which is an all new hull design, not merely a stretched 53. To my eye, it is a more appealing design, and I prefer the deck and interior layouts to the previous 53. I mentioned recently in another thread that I feel Amel gives over to much living space to "engine room" (particularly shortchanging the galley), but others who do not need all that much cabin space may disagree. I also do not particularly care for the helm station -- preferring the conventional location.

camaraderie · #5 (**permalink**) 06-03-2008

Video...check mast heights and keel depths. Most are at 6'8" and 66 ft....That is what turned us off to the superMaramu for East Coast /Bahamas use. I believe the older Mangos have similar issues. Not saying it is not possible...just that things get really funky once you get over 6ft. or 65ft. in lots of places on the ICW or Bahamas or HAVE to go outside and around Hatteras to get north. They are very different boats than most anything else...and you either like 'em or hate 'em...but they are VERY well built and made for couples to handle easily and safely.

videorov · #6 (**permalink**) 06-03-2008

How are the Beneteau large models compare in the 50's size? Are they built
good for ocean crusing and have large fresh water supply other features
the Amel has Rolling furling main and mizzen sail.
Does anyone else build a Boat like the Amel with all the features?

Giulietta · #7 (**permalink**) 06-03-2008

Amels are very good boats, but unfortunately, they are prone to crash accidents...

see..they are so ugly that once you see one, you need to close your eyes...and everyone knows sailing with your eyes closed is dangerous....

Cruisingdad · #8 (**permalink**) 06-03-2008

Video,

This one is for sale in my marina:

1999 Amel Super Maramu 2000 Boat For Sale

I do not mind taking a look at it for you. I know the brokers and could get the skinny on it from its dock neighbors. It is a fresh water boat, which will have a lot of positives for you since you are looking at buying a used boat.

As Cam mentioned (and I can attest to), it is unfriendly for much of West Fl, Keys, and likely the Bahamas. The draft and bridge clearance would completely take it off my list. But you can make your own decision on that.

Just let me know,

- Brian

T37Chef · #9 (**permalink**) 06-03-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by videorov

in the 50ft range up to the 54ft. Just wonder what is different about the layout of the boats.

In my expert opinion I would say there is about a 4' difference

camaraderie · #10 (**permalink**) 06-03-2008

Video...hard to answer your question without some idea of your budget. You appear to want a used blue water large center cockpit cruising boat with all the ameneties.
LOTS of boats fill that niche (or could be upgraded with the ameneties): Hylas, Taswell, Tayana, HR, Shannon, Caliber, Gulfstar, to name a few. What is your budget, crew size and MUST HAVE features?