Yacht Class n°35 (dec 2023/jan-feb 2024)

Gulf Craft

The half-Navetta, half-Explorer style of the Majesty 111 does not leave one indifferent. Livability is one of the qualities that make her highly recommendable. Her launch at the Monaco Yacht Show confirmed Gulf Craft’s intention to take an ever larger place in the world of “new generation” flybridges.

Written by : Alain Brousse – Photo : DR

The Emirati group Gulf Craft, based in Umm al Quwain, some sixty kilometres north of Dubaï (Persian Gulf), has been a major player in the yachting world for several decades with motor yachts from 60 to 175 feet. These are divided into two families: the Nomad SUV (65, 70, 75, 95 and 101 feet) and the Majesty (100, 110, 120 and 160 feet) with a clear program: family cruising in comfort and luxury. In terms of construction, Gulf Craft has focused on composite material, in order to improve the weight-power ratio and increase the solidity of its boats. Its chairman, Mohammed Ashaali, considers it to be one of the strong points of the brand. The Majesty 111, the latest addition in the Superyacht range, is no exception. Her exterior design and interior fittings are the result of a close collaboration between Team Gulf Craft and Phathom, a design studio from the Netherlands with a number of prestigious vessels under their belts. She has a rather conquering silhouette, reminiscent of both a Navetta and an Explorer, particularly with her inverted windshield.

A very spacious and cosy main deck

High on the freeboard, the Majesty 111 suggests a significant volume on her main deck, which we will find out, starting with the ​​30 m² cockpit. It accommodates a large table surrounded by chairs and a settee, making it an ideal dining area for twelve passengers. In addition to the pleasure of tasting the chef‘s cooking, guests will enjoy a spectacular sea view, enhanced by the transparency aft pulpit. On the same level, two glass doors open onto an interior that is very bright thanks to large side windows. Panoramic views and natural light add to the appeal of the space. One will feel right at home in the lounge, with its L-shaped settee for six and two armchairs, or even four, or in the dining area (8 guests) from where one can see the beautiful staircase leading to the upper deck, highlighted by a skylight. Let‘s stay on the main deck. On the port side is located the galley with a porthole and top-of-the-range equipment; which the chef will use to delight the owners and their guests. With stainless steel furniture and light oak floors, the decor is as carefully crafted as in any other volume. The general style is contemporary, with light sofas, furniture and carpets. Here, too, the yard pays close attention to the buyer, who makes the decisions.

A master suite of 40 m²

Beyond the galley, the front part of the main deck (40 m²) is for the owners. It has a very calming atmosphere, thanks to its discreet and modern luxury. Comfort is assured in this spacious full-beam suite, which of course offers an en suite bathroom (separate shower and high quality marble) and an equally interesting dressing room with numerous drawers. The king size bed has been placed in the opposite direction of travel and the sea view is provided by two huge portholes. To port is a large sofa, while to starboard is a desk that doubles as a hairdressing station. The visit to the main deck comes to an end with this very friendly owner‘s area. Now, let‘s head for the lower deck where guests are greeted with a good sleeping capacity. In other words, there are five cabins, each with its own bathroom : one VIP, two double cabins and two twin cabins. Which is undoubtedly an asset for charter.

A substantial maximum speed

The upper deck is designed with a large aft terrace with coffee tables or deckchairs. Beneath the hardtop is the dining area (a circular table for eight) then a very cosy lounge and finally the wheelhouse. Here, facing the console, there is a leaning post instead of a more cumbersome armchair. There is also an L-shaped settee for four people and a table on the starboard side to watch the navigation. In terms of performance, the Majesty 111 surprises to some extent, as we are more used to top speeds of 15 to 18 knots in this category. Powered by two 1 900 hp MANV12 diesel engines, the semi-planing hull reaches a more flattering 20 knots at full throttle. And for the mile-eaters who will be satisfied with 12 knots, the Majesty 111 will be able to sail for 1 700 miles without refuelling. An asset for long cruises and charters.