Malua Features

Interior Layout

The interior layout is unique to Malua with openness and functionality in mind.  There are strategic stainless steel handholds to move about the vessel in any sea state.  The lateral galley and adjacent dining area are open and together. The saloon is part of the navigation area yet separated so that the skipper can sit at the chart table while others are around the dining table.  The main toilet doubles as the wet area and is next to the companionway while the second head is off the main cabin which is part of the workshop.  A double cabin in the stern, perfect for family or crew and a separate quarter berth completes the layout.  All bunks have European styled inner spring mattresses.

Hull and Deck

The hull is solid GRP built to Australian survey standard (approved for charter 2004), with an integrated keel and skeg, and one piece, cast lead ballast which is encapsulated within the keel. The raised saloon and aft cockpit keep the weight down low for an easy and safe motion. The sugar scoop provids ideal swimming and safe boarding characteristics.  The cockpit layout is ideal for entertaining.

Sails and Rigging

With single handed passage making as a primary design goal, Malua has been set up to achieve this without the necessity to leave the cockpit either to raise or lower sails or to reef while under way.  All halyards are led aft from turning blocks at the base of the All-Yacht Spar mast to a two-speed power winch with Lewmar jammers.  The genoa winches are two-speed Anderson 50 while the stay-sail winches are powered Anderson 40.

Cockpit

A major feature of a cruising vessel is a safe cockpit – close to centre of gravity, high sides, wide enough to step from one side to the other and a stern walk through to make easy boarding when Med moored or boarding from a RIB.  The integrated sugar scoop is a practical and safety extension.  The coamings are high for good back support and the seats is long enough for a day or night berth.

Galley and Refigeration

The design concept for the galley is that most food is prepared while at anchor in the presence of crew and guests, therefore a lateral galley opposite the saloon table was built.  With an L shaped washing up area with two sinks, the chef can be secure if at sea.  The large fridge freezer is alongside the stove.

Navigation and Radio Equipment

Visiting distant lands requires that navigation and communication equipment are accessible by the skipper at all times.  The captain's reclining seat at the navigation table with the on-passage quarter berth are right where the equipment can be seen and used.  This is the nerve centre of Malua.

Safety Equipment

From the higher than normal deck lifelines and secure stanchions to the many handholds and bilge pump set-up the safety of the crew and vessel has been designed into the construction.  Malua has weathered many severe storms with little impact on the crew and vessel.  A testament to the safety features.

Electrical

The electrical equipment and systems are designed for redundancy, backup and fail safe operation with relays, switches and fuses to provide adequate power for long-term isolated cruising in any weather.  Large battery banks, solar panels, alternators, regulators and wind generators provide the power to run the vessel.