With a specification sheet that reads ‘cruising speed: 41 knots’, it is quite clear that Otam’s new 80 HT motor yacht named Mystere is no ordinary island hopper. This beast was engineered and built for one thing only – mind-blowing speed. In anticipation of her world debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival next month, we take a quick look inside this Italian stallion.
Launched in March this year as Otam’s fourth unit in its Millennium Line of high-speed power yachts, Mystere could not only exude pure performance and top notch technology for this line to be successful. Crucially, guests would also have to be able to enjoy a comfortable and relaxing experience on board as a true Mediterranean yacht commands. Achieving a top speed of 48 knots while your mimosa rests motionless on the cockpit dashboard, however, is just as difficult as you might imagine. Otam’s special deep V-hull provides a smooth ride even in choppy conditions.
That blistering top speed figure was achieved during her first sea trial through the two MTU M94 engines that power the twin Arneson surface drives. Power is on tap from the word go, and pulling the sticks back just ever so slightly to settle in at a comfortable cruising speed of 41 knots means you will reach St Tropez in no time as Monte Carlo slowly fades into the distance.
The sleek wind-shaped exterior has minismised the available outdoor relaxation areas, but all the necessary chill-out spots are still there. An enclosed lounge area on the aft deck means guests can relax in a wind-free zone even when underway and a large aft-facing sun pad that can be covered with a bimini provide all the relaxation you need.
Diving head first into the crystal clear Mediterranean waters is the best way to start your day on Mystere.
Mystere is surprisingly spacious on the interior despite those narrow eye-slit windows. The reason for this is the use of lighter, smaller and far sturdier furnishings and fittings than what you will find on a conventional yacht. This minimalist approach is not only necessary to keep weight on board to a minimum, but also creates a clean and simple interior that will handle the stresses of travelling at nearly 50 knots.
Opting for two engines instead of four, the owner also allowed Otam’s designers considerably more space to work with in terms of the cabin layout on the lower deck. The master suite is placed midships adjacent to the engine room with a twin cabin separating the VIP suite that is placed all the up forward in the bow.
The galley is also on the lower deck and benefits from the natural light that drips through the skylights in the foredeck structure.
