Maritimo M600 Black Edition Review – A beautifully simplified package managing a complex selection
by John Curnow, Global Editor, Powerboat.World 21 Oct 18:10 PDT
On the move – a dedicated long-range bluewater cruiser – Maritimo M600 Black Edition © Maritimo
You’re either an enclosed transom boater or you’re not. With that said, let’s consider that there are two types of enthusiasts who are drawn to the stunning Maritimo M600 Offshore Motor Yacht. They tend to be either multigenerational boaters, including their furry companions, or fishing aficionados. This is quite straightforward in the broader perspective.
I fall into the category of enclosed transom boaters. It must be my traditional outlook. While I would happily spend a day on one of Maritimo’s splendid Adventure Decks, I would generally prefer one of their boats featuring three numbers in the model name. I hold onto the hope that I’ll once again reel in a big fish.
My initial experience with a Maritimo M600 was aboard “O is for Oh Yeah!”, which was configured specifically for fishing. Fast forward a couple of years, and the new Black Edition has made its debut, showcased in our WorldMarine.Media News Show at Sanctuary Cove just a few months ago.
The advantage of being aboard the latest model is that it has been designed for multigenerational use, presenting an excellent opportunity to not just observe the advancements of the Black Edition, but also to evaluate the flexibility of this remarkable platform.
Maritimo’s Marketing Manager, Simon Stewart, elaborates on the reasoning behind the new Black Edition (available for the very popular M55, M60, and M600). “It boiled down to how we could present this in a way that’s easily recognizable for buyers, allowing them to select the components that will enhance their use of the boat. We gathered all the feedback and options available, then packaged them in a format that clients can choose to fit their individual needs.”
Organizing it all
The challenge was that the nine essential focus areas meant there were thousands of noticeable and subtle enhancements in the Black Edition. The variations and combinations are extensive, ranging from the removal of a washer and dryer to the addition of consoles on the now larger bridge deck, to the installation of a practical and stylish foredeck lounge with forward-facing seating, which, when combined with removable shading, optimizes an often-overlooked space.
Overall, there are primarily two major categories for the ongoing list of improvements: aesthetic and ergonomic/functionality. The two standout features (possibly because they have the most significant impact) are the foredeck arrangement and the cockpit console, which have significantly enhanced the space and effectively utilized what is an expansive area. It’s all about recognizing the options available, assessing which ones are needed, and checking them off your list.
Another fantastic addition is the teak inserts on the steps of the walkaround deck, which are also illuminated, and the rounded edges enhance usability. This single enhancement reflects the guiding principles of form and function throughout the entire design. Another example is the white, louvered engine room vents, which not only look better but also improve airflow to that essential area.
Inward-swinging gunwale doors have become essential in regions with many fixed docks. This feature has now been added, ensuring you retain access to the side deck without compromising rope locker space.
A more extended Juliet deck above allowed for the upper cockpit lounge to be positioned approximately 600mm further back while still being shaded. Additional space can be customized with various seating and storage/refrigeration options depending on the style of saloon doors selected.
More is indeed more!
One clear winner is the lounge itself, featuring angled returns that foster conversation among occupants. They also allow unimpeded access around the lounge and table, and the entire entertainment console still tilts for full access to the lazarette; but the true benefit comes from the additional features the unit offers.
The transom gates retracting into their recesses is a fantastic feature. A larger ‘boot’ provides ample space for a bigger fridge and BBQ. Additionally, the ‘standing’ access to the lazarette is impressive. Yes, the 700l of fresh water is now stored in a tank at the front of the lazarette (with more produced by the watermaker for those blissful Hollywood showers), and this means the additional bunkering is now only 1000l, bringing the total to a commendable 5500l. This means you could potentially cover up to 3000nm, depending on your cruising speed and engine choice. Even when pushing the limits, you can still look at 500nm, which connects Sydney to Mooloolaba in one leg, with extra margin to spare.
If you’re fishing, there’s still space for a small fighting chair, along with a live bait well in the coaming and fish well in the cockpit sole, which has been slightly shallower but remains practical for substantial catches.
On the ‘outside’ section of the bridge, you still have the option to enclose the area, but the flexible layout includes wrap-around seating with infills, a selection of consoles, or an optional additional head to starboard, and a possible aft helm position providing complete visibility over the cockpit and impressive sightlines.
Inside, the new floating dash is a stunning feature, tailored to accommodate your choice of screens – no generic solutions here. Maritimo’s custom electric seats and newly designed footrest complete the essential updates. Think M75, and you’ll understand the class. The cruising lounge now includes a coffee table that is extremely functional.
Many changes in the interior are so subtle they could pass unnoticed. Such as the seamless headliner, mood lighting, or a cozy space for the safe, alongside the slightly lower bed in the VIP Stateroom and new drawers. The galley features a new ‘waterfall’ island bench that can accommodate all necessary utilities.
However, the pièce de résistance is magnificent in both its form and presentation. This includes relocating the tower pantry to the opposite side, resulting in a 600mm longer return in the galley for increased workspace, with overhead lockers placed above the stove now allowing direct access to the aft section of the famous Vista Windows. Let there be light! Winner. Winner. Chicken dinner. No doubt about it…
Did someone mention an optional wine fridge? Don’t worry! It hasn’t vanished; it’s now positioned facing the main saloon, beneath the end of the bench that holds the sink. Relief!
Taking her for a spin
Consider the M600 Black Edition as weighing 35 metric tonnes when fully fueled and loaded with water. There are four engine options available. Twin Volvo-Penta D13 straight-sixes generating 800hp each, paired with the more accessible ZF transmissions, or a pair of Scania’s Di13 inline-sixes with 900hp each, allowing for either ZF or Twin Disc final drive. Ascending the range, you may select the Volvo-Penta D13 sixes at 1000hp each, or the exceptional Scania bent eights at 1150hp each. The PTOs on the gearboxes will drive the hydraulic thrusters, while one of the engines will provide power for Maritimo’s race-inspired steering system.
Surprisingly, the difference between the base engine and the top model is not as daunting as one might think. The M600 cruises at a consistent pace of 24 knots. This cruising speed suggests that you should consider the powertrain options on the higher end; however, often you’ll observe improved overall travel time versus fuel consumption by taking this route. For example, if you’re four knots faster for ten hours during daylight, you would travel an additional 40nm each day. That’s a direct route from Gold Coast to Brunswick Heads.
Our experience with the twin 900hp Scanias resulted in an impressive initial launch onto the plane in the mid-teens, maintaining a cruising speed of about 20 knots, reaching the high 20s at full throttle, with the latter consuming 170l each.
Our day off Gold Coast was quite peaceful, though this was merely a precursor to the crescendo of weather that developed later in the afternoon. The usual one-meter rolling swell from the southeast combined with a possible 10-centimeter chop on top. A vague Nor’wester was predicted, and its barely discernible strength likely resulted in the shift to a gentle Nor’easter upon our return.
Sailing downwind yet into the swell, we maintained a speed of 20.5 knots while consuming 110l each, fully loaded with fuel and water. The 30-inch wheels below ensured a typical Maritimo super-smooth journey, and the gentle roll (without stabilizers engaged) was almost soothing. Oh, the joy; but remember, this is work, not play.
A discussion point
This led to a conversation about stabilization, which nowadays sees even slight rolling as excessive. It’s no surprise that there’s ongoing innovation in this market segment, as companies aim for low power consumption while also being effective across varied speeds – a task that’s much more complex than the phrase might suggest! The entire active trim aspect will be increasingly vital moving forward, not just for comfort, but also for consumption and range.
Having this conversation is crucial. Historically, bridges were compact spaces for work. By enlarging them, enclosing them in glass, and adding fridges and TVs to keep occupants entertained, the center of gravity inevitably shifts upwards, as does the overall mass.
Having been in the background for several years, the stability question re-emerged around five years ago. Make boating more accessible, after all… So, if you’re the sort who counts cup holders in cars, then you must consider stability for your boat. If not for yourself, then for your companions, which, in essence, will enhance your entire boating experience. Understand?
Time to sail home (or perhaps sail away forever?)
Having experienced both versions, I can wholeheartedly affirm the versatility of Maritimo’s M600 platform to cater to the needs of its two target markets. With the new Black Edition, Maritimo has made crafting your ideal boating dream even more tailored and enjoyable.
I can also say that the excitement of selecting options will only be overshadowed by the pure delight of lounging with sundowners on the foredeck or reeling in a giant tuna at 12 knots that will soon become fresh sashimi. Time for some chilled Sake…
