Written by Kerryn Caulfield, Executive Director, Composites Australia.
Maritimo, an Australian luxury motor yacht manufacturer, was founded in 2002 by Bill Barry-Cotter, a pioneering force in Australian boatbuilding and a relentless innovator whose deep understanding of offshore powerboat racing has directly influenced the structural integrity, hydrodynamics and efficiency of Maritimo vessels.
Based within the Coomera Marine Precinct on the Gold Coast, Maritimo has grown into a globally recognised luxury motor yacht brand, with a workforce of 350. Its Hope Harbour facility is a comprehensive sales and service centre, located just 10 minutes’ drive south of the Maritimo headquarters.
Maritimo builds motor yachts across three series: the M-Series Flybridge, S-Series Sedan and Offshore-Series. The M-Series, notably the new M50, was announced at the 2024 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show and will debut in 2025. This model features updated designs and technologies inspired by Maritimo’s larger models like the brand’s flagship M75, effectively distilling the best features of its larger counterparts into a compact, luxurious and competent long-range cruiser.
The M50 integrates an enclosed flybridge, wide walk-around decks, and an enhanced master stateroom with a larger ensuite and expanded storage spaces. This model sets a new standard in its class with efficient shaft drive technology and high-efficiency propulsion systems, with the Volvo D13 800 engines. The hull design incorporates reduced drag, balancing fuel efficiency with performance-driven capabilities.
Maritimo’s offshore racing division sets the company apart as the only luxury motor yacht manufacturer with a dedicated in-house racing team. The racing division serves as a platform for developing and testing cutting-edge technologies, which can be incorporated into Maritimo’s production yachts. This competitive spirit fosters a strong sense of teamwork and camaraderie among employees throughout the company, driving continuous improvement in design, performance, and engineering across their entire range of luxury motor yachts
Phil Candler, Maritimo Operations Manager stated, “With new models continually introduced and production increasing to keep pace with demand, our staff numbers and contractors have grown yearly. As a result, training remains an ongoing commitment—not just for the essential skills it brings to the company, but for the profound effect an apprenticeship qualification can have on a young person’s life.”
He continued, “In the luxury and high performance world, technology aligns far more closely with traditional shipbuilding craftsmanship than many might think. Advanced engineering, digital tools, cutting-edge materials, high-end interior finishes and next-generation accessories enhance the craft, but the human touch, expert judgment and deep material knowledge remains irreplaceable – technology serves as an extension of the tradesperson’s skill, not a replacement for it.”
Maritimo’s patented bonding system is the foundation of their yacht construction. This step-change process integrates the hull, deck and superstructure into a unified monocoque structure, forming the vessel’s structural integrity.
By utilising an internal liner that spans the hull’s length, Maritimo achieves a smoother finish and reduces noise and vibration, creating a more comfortable cruising experience. The result is a lighter yet stronger vessel capable of withstanding the rigours of long-range cruising while maintaining exceptional fuel efficiency.
Every motor yacht is constructed using a controlled lamination process and proprietary bonding technology developed to fortify structural integrity. The emphasis is on reliability, with systems designed for easy maintenance and long-term durability. The production facility is inspired by the Toyota 5S methodology: Sort, Systematise, Shine, Standardise, and Sustain, enhancing workflow efficiency and safety standards.
Ongoing training and a culture of continuous improvement further support craftsmanship and innovation among workers.
Sea trials provide a comprehensive evaluation of a vessel’s performance, functionality, and seaworthiness, ensuring it meets ocean-going standards. These trials can involve up to 10 hours of rigorous testing. On-board systems, including communication devices, safety equipment and amenities, are carefully inspected to confirm they are in optimal working order. Meanwhile, propellers, stabilisers, electronics and steering systems are fine-tuned to ensure peak performance before delivery.
Maritimo was born global, with its luxury motor yachts crossing oceans to reach discerning owners worldwide. The company continues to chart new horizons with an expanding international dealer network spanning North and South America, Europe, Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Whether moored in the marinas of Florida, gliding through the Whitsundays, or exploring the islands of Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, Maritimo’s magnificent bluewater, long-range cruising vessels provide a seamless blend of performance, luxury and adventure, delivering Australian craftsmanship to the world’s most sought-after cruising destinations.
Beyond motor yacht manufacturing, Maritimo fosters a sense of community among owners. Owner events include Maritimo Musters and Migrations are curated opportunities for owners to engage with each other through shared cruising experiences. The brand champions a lifestyle that blends performance, comfort and camaraderie, reinforcing its position as a premier luxury motor yacht manufacturer.
Maritimo M50 Specifications
- Length: 15.69 metres 51’5”
- Beam: 5.22metres 17’2”
- Draft: 1.39m 4’6”
- Fuel Capacity: 3700 litres 977 US Gallons
- Water Tank: 750 litres 198 US Gallons
- Cabins: 2 Standard
- Berths: 4 (plus 2 x fold out double beds )
- Engine Options: 2 x Volvo D13 800 mhp engines (previous model), with newer models potentially featuring different engine configurations14.
Features and Performance
Design and Layout: The M50 offers a spacious and versatile layout, including a large full-beam master stateroom and an enclosed flybridge with an internal staircase. The aft galley and bi-fold doors seamlessly merge indoor and outdoor spaces45.
Performance: The M50 with standard engines can reach a top speed of approximately 30.5 to 31 knots. It features shaft-driven reliability and extended cruising legs, making it suitable for long-range travel45.
Fuel Efficiency: The M50 showed a significant improvement in fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor, the M48, with a reported 10% reduction in fuel consumption during sea trials5.
