36m Moonen Martinique yacht Moonshine completes sea trials

The sixth unit in Moonen Yachts' 36.3-metre Martinique series, Moonshine, has successfully completed her sea trials. Moonshine will soon be delivered to her owner, after which she will spend her first year cruising the Mediterranean and Caribbean before reaching her new home in San Diego, California.

"We are dedicated to upholding Moonen’s reputation for the very highest quality and attention to detail," said project manager John Bechtold. "During the sea trials hundreds of components are being used simultaneously for the first time, so as builders it’s rewarding to see the yacht performing so well. It’s a wonderful testament to the Martinique’s proven design pedigree and build quality."

Exterior design has been completed in house while her "rich and characterful" interiors are by first-time collaborator Hollander Yacht Design. According to the shipyard, the owners were closely involved throughout the design process and used virtual reality and 3D renderings to make design decisions, including choosing custom furniture and "special materials" from a wide variety of suppliers.

"The end result is a yacht that keeps you entertained and surprised every time you turn a corner,” said studio co-founder Alexandra Nicolaescu. "Drawing inspiration from both the light and dark side of the moon, Moonshine’s main deck is dominated by soft, silver, and beige hues, transitioning seamlessly to a darker, more enigmatic atmosphere on the bridge deck."

The series' fast displacement, steel-hulled exterior is by René van der Velden. The owners required a number of customizations, including changing Moonshine's length from 37.4 meters to 36.3 meters to ensure they could moor the yacht at a specific location.

"It was a real honor and a pleasure to develop and build Moonshine together with the owners, crew and construction team," said project manager John Bechtold. "From day one, they have challenged us to refine the yacht to their tastes and intended use. And that has certainly been successful."

Moonshine has a maximum speed of 17 knots and a range of 4,000 nautical miles when cruising at 10 knots. Accommodation is for up to 12 guests and seven crew.

This news follows the launch of the fifth unit, Lumière, in early March 2024. The seventh unit is also currently under construction according to BOAT Pro.