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MJM 40Z

The 40Z combines stability, seaworthiness, speed and efficiency.

The 40Z from MJM Yachts is like a greyhound: long, lean and fast. It covers miles effortlessly at speeds between the 20s and low 30s. Diesel stern-drive power provides great efficiency, shallow draft and a sporty feel at the wheel. In three-footers, our test boat loped along at 30 mph, with no spray on the windshield at any angle to the seas. With a high-tech design and construction keeping the center of gravity low, the boat carved turns with confident precision. Added kicks are provided by the Axius joystick system. I enjoyed excellent low-speed maneuverability and “virtual anchoring,” aka Skyhook station-keeping.

Detail runs deep. For example, when the time comes to socialize, the helm and companion seats swivel around and drop to the level of the port and starboard lounges in the pilothouse. In fair weather with the aft curtains drawn back, the pilothouse and cockpit — all on the same level — become one continuous family and friends space. Port and starboard cockpit boarding doors facilitate line handling, grocery toting and dockside entertaining.

The forward cabin provides a queen berth that I didn’t have to climb onto, and the abundant stowage is divided between lockers, drawers and shelves for better organization. There’s a bookcase at the berth’s head, complete with sea rail for keeping reading materials secure. I thought the 30-gallon holding tank small for extended cruising, until I noted a VacuFlush head, which minimizes water per flush, thus reserving water for other uses. Opposite the galley, you choose either a lounge with a table that converts to bunk berths or a dinette with a table that converts to a double. Both layouts offer a privacy curtain.

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With the stellar efficiency I recorded, the 40Z offers long-legged cruising capability that couples can use for exploring. But this yacht can also entertain for a day more elegantly and comfortably than most cruisers its size.

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