Over the last several years, MJM Yachts have made the plunge into outboard power, launching 35- and 43-foot boats with multiple outboards — and for its flagship 53z, four 400-hp Mercury Verados — hanging off their transoms.
The concept for MJM’s outboard line is the same as its Volvo Penta IPS-powered models: good fuel economy, a shallow draft and a respectable turn of speed matched to a slippery, Doug Zurn-drawn hull with an unfussy and commodious, sailboat-inspired interior.
In a virtual press conference, CEO Peter Truslow and designer Doug Zurn joined MJM owner Peter Johnstone to introduce their latest outboard vessel and a new direction for the builder, the dual console 3z dayboat.
“These boats are the product of several lifetimes of experience,” said Johnstone, son of founders Bob and Mary Johnstone.
The 3z retains the MJM DNA: handsome, Down East inspired looks, a bit of Carolina flare, and a large, open bridge deck that allows for unimpeded 360-degree views. Like her sisterships, the 3z will feature all-composite construction, but she won’t be vacuum-bagged — instead, it will still utilize resin-infused modified epoxy.
Her design is all dayboat, with three distinctive zones (hence the name 3z, also a nod to its designer’s surname) for lounging, diving, fishing and cruising. A new windshield design retains the safari-style opening windows but allows for passage to large, C-shape seating in the bow.
The 3z is 38 feet, 2 inches with a beam of 11 feet. She’ll hold 250 gallons of fuel. Draft is a skinny 2 feet, 8 inches with the engines down.
Standard engines for the 3z will be a pair of 300-hp Mercury Verados, which the builder claims will push the dayboat to a top speed of 50 mph. At a 38-mph cruise, the boat is reportedly good for a 250-mile range. Joystick piloting will be part of the standard package, with options that include a Seakeeper 3 gyro and an HVAC (heat and AC) for the pilothouse.
According to Truslow, tooling has been completed at the builder’s Washington, N.C., facility for a debut later this year.
The base price for the dayboat will be $595,000.
