The Legacy And Luxury Of Moonen Yachts
With its renowned history in Dutch yacht building, Moonen Yachts represents the epitome of luxury in yachting. Under the visionary leadership of Australian husband and wife team Matthew and Louise Baxter, this iconic shipyard has experienced an impressive and ongoing revival since 2019, blending rich Dutch heritage with innovative designs. IYC sat down with the couple to understand what sets Moonen Yachts apart from other builders.
The Baxters first found Moonen when noticing AURORA in their home waters, north of Sydney. When later enquiring about a yacht for themselves, they discovered the builder was struggling and instead purchased the shipyard itself. "We injected capital, which was essential, and have continued to invest in the company to develop it into a global brand," says Louise.
Matthew adds: "We asked the yard how they could do the job they are doing better; and then we invested heavily, putting in the best equipment. While you can build 30 yachts at a time, our boats are works of art, and to get decent quality, we focus on building just two a year." This family-owned company's commitment to excellence is evident in each yacht it produces.
A Luxury Lineup
Following the previous success of the Moonen 84 and Moonen 97, the 110 Mustique represents the next evolution in the yard's lineup. This 110' (34m) model is penned by Rene van de Velden, with naval architecture by Diana Yacht Design and interiors by Studio Indigo. IYC currently has one of these 2023 Moonen 110 Mustique models for sale.
This collaboration with Rene van de Velden and Diana Yacht Design continues in the yard's larger 122" (37m) Martinique fast displacement series. For these models, Hollander Yacht Design has been tasked with the interiors. The seventh model is currently being built, for sale with IYC, and slated for delivery in spring 2025. Looking ahead, the future sees a new, larger 42-meter model in development.
Quality Over Quantity
"We aren't designing to compete with yards that mass-produce; we focus on our brand and that quality," says Louise. This commitment to quality is evident in every detail, including the yard's use of the best materials and passionate team members.
"Our vision is to maintain the DNA, keep attention to detail and quality, and never compromise in any way, which is essential as our clients love the distinctive Dutch pedigree build," adds Louise.
Matthew emphasizes their vision: "The whole philosophy is to build the most beautiful boats that people aspire to own at some stage - our clientele is those who understand quality. They are so beautiful from the moment you step onboard, you can see the quality throughout, from a small hinge to the entire engine room."
Timeless Design
The sleek, elegant, and timeless lines developed with modern and clean detail are the shipyard's hallmarks. Preserving their distinctive look is key, but Moonen still embraces modernity throughout the design process.
Louise explains when designing the Martinique and future larger models: "We have kept the core image so that it can still be identifiable as a Moonen but have modernized it. Our larger models will be modern versions of the classic Moonen but never spaceship-like or something that is way off the focus of our DNA."
Sense Of Spaciousness
Moonen yachts are designed to maximize space and comfort for on-the-water adventures. This attention to spatial design ensures that owners and guests can enjoy their time onboard in the utmost comfort. Despite the modest LOA size, the sense of spaciousness is unparalleled in all Moonen models. There are ample accommodations for groups and families, accommodating up to 10 guests.
The Mustique models benefit from high ceilings, over 7' (2m), and a forward-facing full beam owner stateroom with 180-degree panoramic views. Meanwhile, the main saloon also has floor-to-ceiling windows, giving a sense of spaciousness and enabling natural light to flood the interiors. Outside, the exterior decks and top deck are over 775 square feet. The larger Martinique also has a surprising interior volume at 345 GT, boasting exceptional comfort and space across its balanced decks. 
Various Customisation Options
Moonen understands that each owner has unique tastes and preferences. "There is room to tweak the interiors; you can always add, but it's hard to take away," Louise explains, highlighting their semi-custom approach to creating interiors that can be personalized to suit individual tastes. This flexibility and in-house teams allow owners to make their Moonen yacht their own, with requests taken throughout the build process.
Matthew explains that when it comes to design collaborations: "We don't reach out to everyone; we pick the designers who give us the best possible design for what we want to achieve." The shipyard currently collaborates with esteemed interior designers such as Hollander Yacht Design and Studio Indigo, ensuring a perfect blend of style and functionality. "We put in the best materials that are durable and stand the test of time," Louise adds, underscoring Moonen's commitment to longevity and quality.
Cruising Capabilities
Each Moonen is designed for serious cruising, with the naval architecture and hull designs courtesy of Rene van der Velden and Diana Yacht Design. The superior quality and unrestricted cruising class mean Moonens are capable of long-range journeys. The larger Martinique model is perfect for transatlantic and global travel, with a 4000 nautical range at 10 knots. Similarly, the Mustique has a long-range capability of 3900 nautical ranges at 9 knots. Both models are also ideal for island-hopping cruising throughout the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and the east coast of the US. Thanks to both models' shallow drafts, this also makes for effortless cruising in destinations such as the Bahamas.
Unlike larger superyachts, Moonen yachts are designed to maintain the ability to access marinas worldwide. Matthew adds: "Our models aren't going to be the size that will push you to be anchored; that is a critical part of owning a Moonen." This versatility, combined with the worldwide power connectivity available on all models, makes these yachts ideal for various cruising styles.
Experience Moonen With IYC
IYC is proud to have Moonen Yachts within its growing portfolio, bringing these exceptional Dutch-built luxury yachts to discerning clients worldwide. Whether you are drawn to a superyacht on a smaller platform such as the Mustique, or the Martinique's tri-deck volume and long-range capabilities, a Moonen yacht combines a blend of pedigree yacht building, innovative design, and luxurious comfort.
For more information on available Moonen Yachts, contact the IYC team today.