Nordhavn 46 MKII — Reimagined 46 for Modern Cruising
Alexandra
The South Coast shipyard in Kaohsiung will begin delivering the first Nordhavn 46 MKII hulls in 2026, continuing Pacific Asian Enterprises’ legacy after producing 82 original Nordhavn 46s between 1989 and 2003. With a certified cruising range of 3,000 nautical miles, a full fuel capacity of 1,200 gallons and fresh water capacity of 400 gallons, the MKII targets long-range passagemakers while adding contemporary systems and greater onboard volume for cruising couples without full-time crew.
What changed: hull, systems and seakeeping
The Nordhavn 46 MKII departs significantly from its namesake predecessor. Overall length increased by only six inches, but the MKII gains more than six feet of waterline length (now 44 ft 7 in vs. the original 38 ft 4 in) by reducing overhangs fore and aft and adopting fuller aft sections. Naval architecture improvements focused on reducing pitching, improving motion at sea and increasing practical interior volume so the boat can carry full fuel and gear without adverse trim issues.
Powertrain and propulsion
Propulsion shifted from a single 140-hp John Deere/Lugger diesel with an optional 30-hp Yanmar wing engine to a twin-engine arrangement using two 140-hp Nanni diesels. The twin configuration allows efficient cruising at roughly 7 knots using half power, and offers redundancy: if one engine fails the other can maintain vessel speed. Twin props spinning in clear water are expected to give better propulsive efficiency than the single-prop-behind-deadwood layout used previously.
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Stability, systems and standard gear
The 46 MKII includes modern stabilizing and electrical systems as standard. Key items are Humphree 24-volt all-speed stabilizers, an 11-kW Nanni genset, a Side-Power bow thruster, Garmin electronics (radar and autopilot), and a full-size GE washer and dryer. Lithium-ion batteries are fitted to reduce genset runtime. Tender stowage with a hydraulic davit is standard, while watermaker hookups are installed though a watermaker itself remains an optional extra.
Layout, deck and handling improvements
Exterior and deck planning on the MKII emphasize contemporary aesthetics and safe deck access. The Portuguese bridge and paravane handling booms of the earlier 46 have been replaced by a cleaner silhouette with hullside windows, a nearly plumb stem, molded radar arch and protected side decks providing pilothouse-to-foredeck access. Flybridge steps are to port, and a passage to the cockpit is to starboard, with tender storage on the aft cabin top designed for easy deployment via the hydraulic davit.
| Specification | Nordhavn 46 (original) | Nordhavn 46 MKII |
|---|---|---|
| Waterline length | 38 ft 4 in | 44 ft 7 in |
| Overall length | ~46 ft | ~46 ft 6 in |
| Fuel capacity | — | 1,200 gallons |
| Fresh water | — | 400 gallons |
| Engines | John Deere/Lugger 140-hp (single) | Nanni 140-hp (twin) |
| Stabilizers | Optional | Humphree 24V all-speed (standard) |
| Range | ~3,000 nm | ~3,000 nm |
Key improvements at a glance
- Longer waterline for improved seakeeping and speed
- Twin engine redundancy and higher propulsive efficiency
- Modern stabilizers and lithium-ion electrical architecture
- Cleaner deck layout and improved access fore and aft
- Increased interior volume for provisioning and liveaboard comfort
Design lineage and brief history
The original Nordhavn 46 was inspired by Jim Leishman and designed as a graduation project by Jeff Leishman; the brothers, together with Dan Streech, remain central to Pacific Asian Enterprises. The MKII is the result of a blank-sheet redesign by Jeff Leishman that preserves the 46’s cruising ethos—robust construction, long range and single-couple manageability—while bringing the model up to 21st-century expectations for comfort, systems and aesthetics.
From a logistics and chartering standpoint, the MKII’s configuration matters for operators and owners planning multiday cruises or charter itineraries. Greater fuel and water capacity, reduced genset dependency due to lithium batteries, and standard stabilizers reduce the need for frequent port calls and increase flexibility for routes across wide ocean passages and island chains.
GetBoat always keeps an eye on news related to sailing and seaside vacations, because these developments affect what clients can expect when choosing charter yachts or private purchases: newer designs that balance autonomy, comfort and efficiency expand options for couples and small crews seeking authentic ocean experiences.
Operational considerations for owners and charter operators
- Provisioning for extended passages is simpler with the MKII’s larger tanks and interior volume.
- Maintenance regimes change with twin engines and lithium systems—spares and technician access should be planned along common cruising routes.
- Berthing and marina logistics benefit from improved maneuverability with the Side-Power bow thruster and twin-screw setup.
The combination of proven ocean-range capability with modern systems makes the 46 MKII interesting both as a private cruising yacht and as a niche offering for specialized charters where comfort and autonomy are selling points. For renters and buyers scouting vessels for coastal cruising, island hopping or longer bluewater legs, the MKII presents a blend of traditional Nordhavn seaworthiness with up-to-date amenities.
If you want a short forecast on how this launch could affect travel and global tourism: the Nordhavn 46 MKII is unlikely to reshape mass tourism on a global scale, but it is meaningful for niche yachting and expedition-style cruising markets. However, it remains relevant to potential customers because incremental improvements in range, onboard systems and comfort influence charter availability, owner preferences, and the kinds of destinations feasible for private expeditions. GetBoat aims to stay abreast of these developments and keep pace with the changing world. If you are planning your next trip to the seaside, consider the convenience and reliability of GetBoat.
Highlights of the 46 MKII show that experiencing a new location by sea is multifaceted: you learn about local culture, nature, the indescribable palette of local colors, rhythm of life and unique service aspects. If you are planning your next trip to the sea, you should definitely consider renting a boat (boat rentals, rent a boat, rent a yacht), as each inlet, bay, and lagoon is unique and tells you about the region just as much as the local cuisine, architecture, and language GetBoat.com
In summary, the Nordhavn 46 MKII keeps the original 46’s DNA—robust construction and a true ocean-going 3,000-nm range—while delivering modern propulsion, stabilization, and increased living volume that benefit both private owners and niche charter markets. For anyone planning yacht charters, boat rentals or a purchase, the MKII is a contemporary option that blends classic bluewater capability with current comforts. Whether you seek a coastal day sail, a multi-day cruise to a clearwater bay, or an extended ocean crossing, platforms that offer transparent listings, specs and ratings make it easier to choose the right vessel. GetBoat.com supports this by providing a global, user-friendly solution for unforgettable touristic experiences—booking or buying yachts, sailboats and motorboats with transparency and convenience for every budget and taste. Adventure awaits.
