By Capt. Ken Kreisler
While knowing it would be making a splash with its new 3z Outboard, MJM is instead creating a tidal wave of excitement in the under 40-foot market.
Inspiration comes from many places. In the case of highly esteemed MJM, and as it has been from its inception in 2002 with the introduction of the 34z, its vision and attention to detail; its commitment to construction and design, has enabled the company to set new limits of what is possible in the luxury cruising yacht sector.
If there’s anything we’ve come to expect from MJM it’s innovation, comfort, style, and maximizing the use of all spaces aboard the entire model line for safe and enjoyable time out on the water. With this latest offering, they have achieved their goals and then some.
To begin with, and even before the first computer-generated stroke of her exterior lines were drawn, imagination and forethought, powered by ‘what if…’ were put into play. The initial idea was to create a dual-console boat offering an enclosed pilot house featuring Strataglass rollups for the sides or even sliding glass panels as well as electrically-operated front opening windows. From there, MJM, in its always-present mind set, would produce this model with all the comfort, amenities, and exclusive features that makes them one of the premier builders in today’s market.
With that relatively blank slate to work on, the creative team of designers and construction personnel, and with safety and stability in mind for a boat under 40-feet in length, made sure she adhered to ISO CE Certified Category B “Offshore”.
ISO stands for the International Organization for Standardization and is made up of 165 member countries. It is non-governmental and is the world’s largest developer of voluntary international standards the use of which creates products and services that are safe, reliable, and of good quality. As every MJM yacht is certified to the highest ISO Category possible, built to the standards of the International Marine Certification Institute, and while any prudent mariner would avoid or rarely meet any dangerous and adverse conditions, it is reassuring to know that your vessel meets these specifications.
Construction techniques include the use of epoxy resin instead of polyester or vinyl ester materials so as to add more adhesion and extra strength to the final product. The mold itself is coated with an epoxy-compatible gelcoat, and once released, will produce a truly yacht-finish exterior. Look down the hull of any MJM yacht and you will see a flawless, mirror-finish.
The outer skin of E-Glass cloth goes over the waterproof Corecell structural foam, and finally the inner skin of E-Glass. MJM utilizes “advanced-precision vacuum infusion.” Although this process has been around a while in the aviation field; think F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet, it has only been seen in one-off ultraperformance yachts. MJM is mum on their proprietary epoxy-based resin formulation but relies on it for a better bond of core surfaces that are mechanical as well as adhesive. Next is a proprietary spec unbalanced woven quad-axial E-glass to enable the dialing in of exact engineering with the result of greater strength and a reduction in weight” according to second generation Chairman, Peter Johnstone. Destructive testing shows MJM’s infusion process in NC leads to 25% better mechanical properties for a given set of materials versus a vacuum bagged wet-preg processes. The hull grid and foam-cored stringers as well as the bulkhead landings are fully encapsulated in a fiberglass laminate and absolutely no wood is used in her structure. What does this mean for you the boater? It means that thanks to technology, MJM hulls are 15% lighter and 10% stronger while MJM decks are now 25% lighter and same strength. The result is an increase in seaworthiness, lower center of gravity for stability, fuel efficiency and, according to MJM, produces a stronger structure designed for longevity. And in case you’re wondering; older MJMs were built with the most advanced materials and processes at the time. In fact, they were so well built that they exceeded all the standards of their day and are still superior to contemporaries on the market today.
With her deep-V hull shape, whose DNA has been successfully developed over the years with efficiency and expertise, the 3z Outboard, utilizing a low center of vertical gravity design, and combined with the dynamic stability created while underway, promises exceptional sea-keeping abilities whether enjoying a day out with family and friends or taking some extended time away from your home dock.
And that brings us to what this outstanding MJM yacht is all about; being out on the water and enjoying the lifestyle to the fullest. To that end, she is equipped with all the amenities and creature comforts we have come to expect from this builder.
The 3z Outboard is designed with a single level deck layout, allowing for easy, unobstructed passage back and forth from helm to transom. You and your guests will be able to enjoy the full ‘three zones of fun’ MJM has built into her.
Forward, the ample and spacious open bow area features comfortable seating and, as found throughout, additional storage below. The recessed anchor locker, with washdown and Muir windlass, is self-draining. Moving amidships is the air-conditioned pilothouse, with a pair of sunroof hatches in the overhead. This is a protected space which not only affords great views all around courtesy of wide windows but, just aft of the starboard helm, with another one to port, are settees able to sleep two with privacy curtains when necessary. The helm itself is well laid out with all controls and equipment within easy reach. And with that great visibility, the skipper will have not had any problem managing the seaway.
There is a full private head with a shower to port and a storage locker opposite. Both Stidd 500 helm and companion seats are fully adjustable and are able to rotate 360°, and between those settees is an unfolding teak table. Aft and to port is a convertible double sunlounge offering yet another possible relaxing/sleeping/hangout/seating space. The transom walkthrough allows for getting swimmers in and out of the water—a handy Scandvik hot/cold shower is also located here—and a starboard boarding door ensures safe and easy access getting on and off. And there is additional storage and optional generator and Seakeeper3 gyro stabilizing system compartment located on the starboard side of the cockpit.
On the power end, a pair of 300-hp Mercury Verado outboard engines for in-your-face performance combined with joystick controls featuring Skyhook and auto-trim, will remove any docking and close quarters situational anxiety from the equation. And if you’ve never experienced joystick controls, not to worry. The learning curve is quite easy and once you get the hang and feel of the ‘stick’, your time at the helm will be enhanced. The Garmin electronics package includes GPSMAP® 8612xsv, GMI™ 20 display, VHF 215 over Helm, Mercury Smart Pilot Autopilot, and Mercury Vessel View MFD for advanced and critical engine information. Socializing, exciting water sports, safe and comfortable weekend cruising, command and control of your machinery and systems, and a spacious layout are all built into the MJM 3z Outboard.
With the introduction of the 3z Outboard, the company has soared to new heights. She is as complete a day boat and weekender as anything you will find in its class. Superior fit and finish, a dynamic profile, convenient and efficient outboard power, the kind of creature comforts and amenities found on much larger vessels, and most importantly the MJM logo signifying a well-built, well-designed boat that will provide safe and enjoyable time aboard. The MJM 3z Outboard will be your personal statement of ownership.
