US builder Metal Shark has unveiled its first 48-metre aluminium catamaran explorer yacht named Magnet.
The first hull in the builder’s M48 high-speed, long-range catamaran yacht model, Magnet was built at the yard’s facility in Franklin, Louisiana.
Designed in-house, Magnet features “chiselled lines” inspired by Metal Shark’s military patrol vessels and is built on an Incat Crowther catamaran hull form.
Spread across three decks, Magnet is powered by twin 2,600-BHP MTU IMO Tier III diesel engines for an ocean-crossing range of 11,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 10 knots. The yacht reached a top speed of 27 knots during sea trials.
Elsewhere, Magnet features an aft deck crane for launching and retrieving tenders. An upper deck sundeck is equipped with sofas, al fresco dining areas and bar while the flybridge sits forward. The interior, which has been decorated in the style of a “high-end city apartment” features large windows for far-reaching ocean views and spans 393 square metres of living space.
Accommodation is for a total of 10 guests across a master cabin, VIP and three additional guest cabins. The M48 model however can be configurated to accommodate additional guests or crew. The crew quarters, wine cellar, workshop and refrigerated storage sits on the lower deck of the twin catamaran hulls.
Speaking about the build, Magnet’s owner George Wallner said: “I wanted a serious, rugged, purpose-built vessel capable of reaching the remote, unspoiled destinations that you can’t get to with an airplane.
“With Magnet, I can travel quickly to faraway places, and everyone onboard can enjoy the adventure. Upon arrival, we can stay for extended periods, independently and comfortably, without reliance on a large crew.”
Metal Shark chief executive, Chris Allard, added: “With Magnet, you can run from New York to Miami in under 48 hours, you can cross oceans at 17 knots, and you can comfortably enjoy long-range global travel without refuelling concerns.”