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ME 97E
The
news from Marlow/Norsemen is big, in that we have completed our largest
Marlow Explorer to date. We introduced this stunning new Marlow at a
private debut party in Miami on Feb. 16, 2011 before she was open for
inspection at the Miami International Boat Show, Feb. 17-21, 2011. We designed this new Marlow with
the environment and top performance in mind using everything we have
learned over a lifetime of building, repairing and using boats. The new
97E is, of course, built using our own proprietary Full Stack Infusion ©
which has no equal in the marine industry. This process removes the
ability of human error in laminating, eliminating good days, bad days,
contamination, atmospheric considerations and a host of other potential
problems from the equation.
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The 97E offers
features not seen previously in our industry and a standard of quality
rarely seen, if at all. Simply put, there is no other production builder
capable of or committed to this level of building. The 97E deviates from
the recent trend towards barge like beam to length ratios in an attempt
to overcome archaic fiberglass boat building methods dating from the
late 1940s. It is customary for most builders to construct their
offerings similar to a tract home with rafters, floor joists, studs and
a whole host of space and strength robbing, useless and unnecessary
framing to support an inferior hull and superstructure strength. This
results in huge volumes of interior and exterior space being absorbed by
that stick framing as well as a greatly reduced final strength and
integrity of build. The construction method and materials used in a
Marlow eliminate a container load of useless framing wood, plywood,
studs, supports, etc., transferring that space directly to usable space.
Overall height can be markedly lowered, resulting in a lower center of
gravity and higher performance in any sea condition.
 Of late, designers have been pushed and prodded to exceed common sense
boundaries of beam to length ratios, with some 65’ yachts nearly twenty
feet wide, far beyond normal naval architecture standards if decent
performance is a criteria. One well known builder’s offering at 65’ and
just under 20’ beam is such a poor performer that with 1600 horsepower
on tap, it struggles to achieve 13 knots cruise speed at the engine
manufacturer’s recommended throttle setting and consumes 65 gallons of
fuel per hour to achieve that not so lofty number. As a comparison an
eight year old 65’ Marlow with a beam of 18’4” achieves a top speed of
over 24 knots and cruises easily at 18 knots with the same power, while
consuming 25% less fuel. Yet the usable interior volume of the
accommodations is larger on the Marlow 65 as are the machinery spaces,
storage, bilges, etc.
The new 97E features a beam of 21’ and exceptional waterline length at
around 92’, allowing displacement speed cruising with superior economy
and significantly higher speeds than would be possible if we built a
barge like design. In fact we believe that despite its Bureau VERITAS
unrestricted navigation certificate, it will be the fastest, best
performing raised pilothouse offshore yacht in the world with equal
power. We have run this yacht since it's arrival and have found a top
speed of 29K and a very comfortable cruising speed of 23-24K. The range
at 25K is about 950 miles and a range of 4000 miles is attainable with a
speed of 9K. We believe
it will travel twice as far as some well known large yachts that are
marketed today, at similar speeds. A dock queen it will never be.
The
flexibility of layout design options inherent in these yachts due to the
construction methods employed, allow the owners to build a yacht for
their unique personal styles. The first ME 97E has a closed Command
Bridge and a luxurious master suite on the main deck. The second ME 97E
has open fly bridge and on deck raised pilothouse with a navigation
station, a large galley and informal dining seating.
 Featuring a grand salon and separate formal dining room with a unique on
deck door opening directly to the U shaped galley, activities can be
carried out less obtrusively while providing fresh air to the galley
when chosen.
The
huge on deck master is difficult to describe with its own direct entry
from the salon or a private
door to the exterior. A stunning Shanxi black granite sole is found in
the master head and across its flawless finish a hand carved solid
Sichuan Pure White soaking tub has a view of the surrounding sea while a
leisurely bath is enjoyed. A very large separate shower, hand carved
marble sinks, vanities and accessories grace the balance of this
luxurious yacht.
 Below features six beautiful guest cabins plus aft crew quarters. Three
of the luxurious cabins are VIP style with one featuring twin double
beds. Guests will be afforded their own private commissary with full
cooking facilities for a late night snack and European laundry
facilities.
The 97E
has the Marlow developed solar roof system to recharge
house batteries offering seamless 8 KW inverter power for on board
appliance use. Her hydraulic transom door and swim platform allow water
toys and brilliant access to crew quarters. At sea the Captain will be
able to access the machinery spaces via a wonderful companionway in all
weather.
There are two “Country Kitchens” on the 97E for outdoor activities; one
on the expansive aft deck and one on the enormous flying bridge area
complete with day head. Private lounging areas are tastefully and
thoughtfully provided about the yacht for quiet reading or just taking
in the sun.
Perhaps best of all, the new Marlow Explorer 97E is simply stunning from
all angles and represents our intention to build the world’s finest
yachts at great value.
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