MARI-CHA III is an outstanding 44.72-metre sailing superyacht designed by renowned naval architect Philippe Briand and built by the respected New Zealand shipyard Sensation Yachts. This high-performance carbon composite ketch was conceived as the ultimate blend of luxurious ocean cruising yacht and record-breaking racing machine.
Her lightweight carbon construction delivers exceptional stiffness and strength, providing a remarkable sail area-to-displacement ratio. Equipped with towering Southern Spars carbon masts (49m main mast), MARI-CHA III carries up to 1,680 sqm of sail downwind. She has achieved 17 knots in just 14 knots of true wind and famously broke the Atlantic crossing record in 1998, cementing her reputation as one of the fastest super sailors afloat.
Her interior, designed by John Munford, showcases refined Edwardian elegance with marble finishes, fine woods and luxurious fabrics. She accommodates up to 9 guests in 4 cabins, including a full-beam Owner’s suite with private deck access. The spacious saloon and dining area comfortably seat 10 guests, offering a perfect balance between performance and comfort.
Convertible between cruising and racing configurations, MARI-CHA III remains a rare opportunity on the brokerage market — a true icon combining pedigree, speed and timeless luxury.
Key Features
- 44.72m High Performance Super Maxi Ketch
- Naval architecture by Philippe Briand
- Advanced carbon composite construction
- 1998 Atlantic crossing record holder
- Sydney-Hobart record achiever
- Southern Spars carbon rig (49m main mast)
- Up to 1,680 sqm sail area
- Convertible cruising / racing setup
- Full-beam Owner’s suite with deck access
- Edwardian-style luxury interior
Specifications
Overview
- Name:MARI-CHA III
- Yacht Type:Sail Yacht
- Builder:Sensation
- Refits:2025-01-01
Dimensions
- Length Overall:44.72 metres
- Length at Waterline:38 metres
- Beam:9 metres
- Max Draught:4.5 metres
- Gross Tonnage:166
- Displacement Tonnage:126
Construction
- Builder:Sensation
- Year of Build:1997
- Hull Number:SY 8
- Hull Type:Monohull
Performance & Capacities
- Max Speed:15 kn
- Cruising Speed:10 kn
- Fuel Capacity:9400 litres
- Water Capacity:5000 litres
- Range:2000 nm
- @ 10 kn
Engines
- Engine Make:Caterpillar
- Total power:600hp
Materials
- Hull:Carbon Composite
- Superstructure:Carbon Composite
- Deck:Teak
Accommodation
- Guests:9
- Passenger Rooms:4
- Master Rooms:1
- Double Rooms: 1
- Twin Rooms:2


