moody ds yachts

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Moody 41DS review: Could this model win you over to the decksaloon lifestyle?

• November 19, 2020

With the introduction of its smallest decksaloon model, has Moody defined a new genre of 40ft cruisers? David Harding sails the Moody 41DS

Product Overview

Manufacturer:, price as reviewed:.

Whatever your opinion of decksaloons, there’s something extremely civilised about being able to walk ‘inside’ from the cockpit, staying on the same level and looking out through big windows.

Of course decksaloons are nothing new, and they come in all shapes and sizes. The one on Moody’s 41DS, however, is likely to win new converts, including people who might otherwise be tempted by a catamaran or even a motorboat. Opening to the cockpit via a push-and-slide door, it gives you a virtually uninterrupted 360° view of the outside world.

You have the galley immediately next to the door, with a large hatch opening to the cockpit for extra light and ventilation. Descending to the depths to put the kettle on will become a distant memory.

Galley, dining-lounging area and chart table occupy the decksaloon, which has virtually unrestricted views all round

Moody’s newest decksaloon model is all about inside/outside living space – and a lot of each. A hard top covers the cockpit forward of the wheels, the centre canvas section sliding away so you can sit in the sun if you choose. Naturally you have a bathing platform at the stern and there’s also a seating-cum-lounging area in the bow, creating a sort of forward cockpit.

And down below? Well, the Moody is truly cavernous. Bill Dixon’s team drew a boat with plumb ends, high freeboard, full forward sections, near-vertical topsides, a broad stern incorporating a soft chine, and the beam carried well forward, creating a vast volume for the interior designers in Germany to play with. It has been used to create a supremely comfortable interior for a couple with occasional guest or second couple.

No attempt has been made to squeeze in extra berths or cabins, so the Moody boasts living space and stowage on a scale few boats of this length can match.

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Form following function

If the first time you see the Moody is from the bow, your eye will inevitably be drawn to the broad flat stem with its hard corners. That aside, there’s nothing particularly out of the ordinary about the hull shape in the context of a modern voluminous cruising yacht.

The full bow sections will more than accommodate the small loss of buoyancy from the bow thruster in its tunnel and support the weight of the optional 100m of stainless steel anchor chain, not to mention a full water tank under the berth in the owner’s cabin. Helped by the broad stem, a deep forefoot allows the bow thruster to be mounted well forward for maximum effect.

Staying below the waterline and moving aft, we find an L-shaped iron fin keel of moderate proportions giving a draught of 2.25m/7ft 5in. That’s unless you pay extra, as had the owners of Aurelia , our test boat, for the 1.85m/6ft 1in alternative. Propulsion is via a saildrive well forward of a single deep rudder.

Photo: David Harding

Back above the water, fold-down boarding steps neatly incorporated into the solid stainless steel tubular guardrails help you scale the topsides. The sunken side decks are protected by high bulwarks and extend all the way to the bow – just as on the original Moody 45DS that we tested back in 2008.

Overhead is a deck-stepped double-spreader rig of high-fractional configuration. It supports a self-tacking jib and a mainsail that, though slab-reefing as standard, is almost invariably going to be of push-button in-mast persuasion, as on our test boat.

Moving towards the stern you find twin wheels with seats right aft. The forward lower section of the cockpit sole is on the same level as the deck saloon’s. By now, with 15-20 knots blowing across a gloriously sunny Solent, I was keen to leave the marina behind and see how this voluminous shape behaved at sea.

Life on the ocean wave

As you’d expect of a modern yacht with a bow thruster (and the option of a stern thruster), manoeuvring presented no particular challenges. That said, windage would inevitably be a factor in a breeze.

In open water the 57hp of Yanmar pushed us along quietly and smoothly, 1,500 rpm giving 6.3 knots and 2,100 rpm 7 knots. Hinging up the cockpit sole reveals the engine set in its smooth, wipe-clean moulding and with a good amount of space all round. Additional access is from the front, via the decksaloon.

You have a choice of helming position under power or sail. Standing at the wheel to see over the coachroof might initially seem the obvious approach, though you will have a blind spot immediately forward of the bow unless you’re well over 6ft tall. Much of the time it’s better to look through the windows (all in toughened glass) from one of the helm seats.

Wide seats behind the twin wheels give a good choice of helming position. Photo: David Harding

Structural advances have allowed pillars to become smaller and window area much larger than would have been possible only a few years ago, so your visibility is largely unrestricted if you sit down.

The biggest challenge can be reflection in the glass, especially if you’re on the starboard side and facing the double layer of reflections from the open door slid across inside the aft end of the saloon. It helps to move around periodically, both from side to side and to alternate between standing and sitting. I found it useful on occasions to stand on the helm seat for a totally clear view over the coachroof – a position that’s unlikely to feature in Moody’s book of good practice.

Setting sail is straightforward enough (more on that later). A Seldén Furlex 304 is standard for the self-tacker, as is the pair of electric Lewmar 45 primary winches. You can use the port one to furl or reef the jib if you need to.

Visibility forward through the deck saloon from the cockpit is good, though reflections can be distracting. Photo: David Harding

With the main fully unfurled too and a few tweaks made, we settled down to beat into a breeze that ranged between 12 and 22 knots. At its upper end this was probably as much as the boat wanted under full sail, but the flat water gave us options that wouldn’t have been on offer in a seaway and we were perfectly comfortable most of the time.

This is a boat that definitely likes to be sailed ‘full and by’ in the old parlance: sailing deep enough to keep the log reading in the mid 6s felt best for VMG and gave us a tacking angle of within 85° on the compass. Matching the polars might have been easier with the help of a folding prop instead of the fixed three-blader.

For a boat of this nature it was a creditable performance, even allowing for the near-ideal conditions. Elvstrom’s FCL laminate upgrades from the standard Dacron sails are undoubtedly worth having, not least because the greater stability of the fabric allows the mainsail to carry a larger roach.

A large locker in the bow, with a hatch in the bottom for access to the bow thruster and forward for the anchor locker

We also had the optional outer forestay and a genoa on an electric furler. Given factors such as the Moody’s high windage and the modest spread of sail with the self-tacker, extra canvas would be welcome in under 10 knots or so. Instead of a genoa, you might favour a lighter sail designed for greater wind angles if you reckon on motoring upwind in light airs anyway.

Since we were enjoying moderately fresh conditions, we waited to unfurl the genoa until the wind was approaching the beam, and then surged along with the log nudging over 8 knots at times.

In terms of general obedience, the Moody was not found wanting. The rudder is big enough to maintain grip beyond what would be considered normal angles of heel for a boat like this, unlike on some earlier Moodys that have been known to spin round and face whence they came with little provocation.

A hatch in the stern between the helm seats houses the liferaft stowage, and also opens to the lowered bathing platform

Helming positions are comfortable from windward or leeward, giving good sight of the jib’s luff, and the feel through the Jefa steering is positive. Our test boat had the optional Carbonautica composite wheels, a well-worth-having upgrade from stainless steel.

Given the nature of the boat, it would be churlish to moan too much about particular aspects of the performance and handling. Nonetheless, as it’s designed to – and does – sail, a few observations are worth making. Visibility of the headsails when you’re furling or unfurling them from the cockpit isn’t great. It’s is a function of enjoying the protection of a decksaloon and a hard top: you can’t have it all ways.

Managing the rig

Colour-coding the lines, led aft through tunnels to the clutches and winches forward of the helm stations each side, would make life easier. On our test boat they were all white with variations of black and grey fleck.

Access from the stern to the steering mechanism is good

As for sail trim, a self-tacking jib will always twist open too far when the sheet is eased. Similarly, a mainsheet taken to a fixed point close below the boom (such as on top of the coachroof) will also lose its downward component. At times when sailing upwind we felt like de-powering slightly.

Dropping the traveller would normally be one of the first steps if you had one. Easing the mainsheet with this arrangement will principally twist the sail open even if you crank the vang on hard, and is a de-powering tool to be used in moderation. Realistically with the Moody, reefing the mainsail to the first batten will probably be the answer.

Still in the cockpit and looking at other aspects, perhaps my biggest grouse is the all-too-common absence of stowage for small items – binoculars, phones, drinks and so on that you want to be able to grab without having to dive into one of the cavernous lockers either side beneath the cockpit seats (and you have to be very careful not to trap any lines near the hinges when you close the heavy lids again).

The 57hp Yanmar lives beneath the cockpit sole, with additional front access

These lockers contain the two diesel tanks and leave copious amounts of space for everything else, while the liferaft lives just above the static waterline in the stern, below the helm seats, and would be easy to slide into the water with the bathing platform lowered. A hatch in the stern gives access to the inside of the transom and is often awash, so you would want to be sure that it seals as it should.

Moving forward, the recessed side decks are easy to negotiate but there’s nothing to stop green water running aft all the way to the cockpit. On the leeward side it should flow straight out through the stern. If you get green water on the weather deck, it seems likely that some of it will end up in the cockpit’s lower section. Drains here should get rid of the water, though its arrival might come as a surprise to people who weren’t expecting to get wet feet.

Inside living

In the decksaloon we find the galley along the port side, a chart table forward to port (with the optional third helm station on our test boat) and a large seating area around the table to starboard. Spend another £2,500 or so and you can lower the table at the push of a button to create an extra double berth or large lounging area. Mahogany joinery is standard, the golden oak on Aurelia being among the options.

Bright and airy in the galley and full visibility from the chart table

Lifting the sole board in the galley reveals steps down to the ‘cellar’, a utility area complete with space for a washing machine and a second fridge as well as stowage and access to some of the electrical systems. On the whole, access to the essential systems seems good throughout the boat, partly because of the general and very welcome lack of cramming. Interior mouldings are used sparingly and much of the interior is formed by the joinery, allowing access to the outer hull.

When you go forward from the decksaloon and drop down a level, you find the main electrical panel to starboard by the steps, protected by a hinged door.

Straight ahead in the full bow is the master cabin, complete with semi-island berth. There is stacks of stowage and hanging space, an abundance of natural light, more than generous headroom and a spacious en-suite heads and shower. As standard, this heads is shared (via an extra door) with the guest cabin to starboard. I suspect most owners will choose the additional heads to port in a space otherwise used for walk-in stowage.

Full bow sections, lots of light and plenty of height make for a big and bright owner’s cabin

The guest cabin can have a double berth, twins, or twins with an infill for a double conversion. As the pictures show, the overall styling is modern without being garish and the detailing and quality of finish are hard to fault.

Beautifully finished and designed for real cruising, the Sirius has a more traditional feel.

Price: €502,521 (ex. VAT)

Features pronounced chines, with twin rudders and an aft cockpit over one or two double cabins.

Price: €380,000 (ex. VAT)

With aft helms giving familiarity to monohull sailors, this voluminous cat sails well and offers plenty.

Price: €311,990 (ex. VAT)

It’s fascinating to see how Bill Dixon and Moody have developed the decksaloon yacht since the Eclipse range of the 1980s and 1990s. The changes in 30 years are quite remarkable. As for the question of whether the Moody 41DS is a lifestyle cruiser, the answer has to be a resounding ‘yes’. In some contexts such a description might be seen as a euphemism at best. In this case it’s what the boat is – simply and unashamedly. This is a boat for people who, whatever their boating background, want to spend extended periods aboard, most probably in port or at anchor much of the time. Purists, performance sailors and bluewater yachtsmen would be unlikely to give it a second glance unless planning a major change of direction in their sailing career. By contrast, it will provide a lot to think about for those who might alternatively be considering a catamaran or a motorboat for the space, one-level living and sheltered cockpit. So calling it a lifestyle cruiser is anything but an insult. It’s not that this boat won’t perform respectably well under sail, because it does, or that there’s any reason why it shouldn’t complete the ARC and sail home again too, because it could. It’s just that the Moody’s purpose and its strengths lie elsewhere, and its ‘strengths elsewhere’ are pretty impressive.

• Yachting Monthly
• Digital edition

Moody 41 DS: A deck saloon that pushes all boundaries

• March 10, 2021

Adopting a fresh approach to deck-saloon design, the Moody 41 DS is an exceptionally roomy cruiser that pushes a lot of boundaries, says David Harding

A genoa or off-wind sail can be flown from an extra furler in front of the self taking jib. Credit: David Harding

Product Overview

Moody 41 ds, manufacturer:, price as reviewed:.

First test of the Moody 41 DS

Enthusiasts of deck saloons often reckon there’s something missing if a boat doesn’t have one.

After all, especially in higher latitudes, why wouldn’t you want to able to sit inside and see out?

Whether you’re enjoying the view of the anchorage or scanning the horizon on passage, you stay warm and dry and within easy reach of the cockpit – which is still there for when you want to be outside.

What’s not to like?

Pursuing this logic has led to the launch of many a deck-saloon yacht over the years, but none quite like the Moody 41 DS.

The aft seats will comfortably accommodate two. Sail controls are led to clutches and winches within easy reach of the helm stations. Credit: David Harding

This new Moody has taken the ‘one-level living’ approach found on multihulls and motorboats and applied it to a 12m (40ft) monohull.

You walk straight into the deck saloon from the cockpit with no steps or companionway to negotiate.

From inside, thanks to the full standing headroom and large window area, you have an uninterrupted view so you can cook, sit at the chart table or just relax while staying in touch with the outside world.

It’s the same concept as on the Moody 45 DS , which we tested in 2008, but most 40-something-foot deck-saloon cruisers (and even those substantially longer) have the deck saloon at a lower level than the cockpit.

Acres of space

In addition to being one of the few single-hulled sailing yachts in her size range to adopt the one-level approach, the Moody 41 DS draws attention to herself in a number of ways.

The hard-top has an opening centre section and extends seamlessly from the deck saloon to just forward of the wheels. Credit: David Harding

She offers a vast amount of space for a start. Bill Dixon’s team drew a boat with plumb ends, high freeboard, full forward sections, near-vertical topsides, a broad stern incorporating a soft chine, and the beam carried well forward, creating an enormous volume for the interior designers in Germany to play with.

They used it to create a seriously comfortable interior for a couple with an occasional guest or second couple.

No attempt was made to squeeze in extra berths or cabins, so the Moody 41 DS boasts living space and stowage on a scale that few boats of this length can match.

Another notable feature is the way she not only brings the outside in but also brings the inside out.

For example, a hard top extends aft from the deck saloon over the cockpit to a point just forward of the twin raised helm stations, the centre canvas section sliding away so you can sit under cover or in the sun as you choose.

If you want to be completely in the open, go to the bow, where you have a seating-cum-lounging area creating a sort of forward cockpit.

Or move all the way aft and lower the hinge-down bathing platform.

Few 40-footers offer as many separate spaces for socialising on deck.

Apart from the broad flat stem with its hard corners, there’s little to strike you as out of the ordinary in the context of the modern high-volume cruising yacht when you meet the Moody 41 DS for the first time.

The full bow sections will more than accommodate the slight loss of buoyancy from the bow thruster in its tunnel and support the weight of the optional 100m of stainless steel anchor chain, not to mention a full water tank under the berth in the owner’s cabin.

Helped by the broad stem, a deep forefoot allows the bow thruster to be mounted well forward for maximum effect.

Staying below the waterline and moving aft, we find an L-shaped iron fin keel of moderate proportions giving a draught of 2.14m (7ft).

The Yanmar diesel lives beneath the cockpit sole and is easy to reach from above from the front via the deck saloon and from the sides. Credit: David Harding

That’s unless you pay extra, as had the owners of Aurelia, our test boat, for the 1.85m/6ft 1in alternative.

Propulsion is via a saildrive some way forward of a single deep rudder.

Form following function

Back above the water, fold-down boarding steps neatly incorporated into the stainless tubular guardrails help you scale the topsides.

Ascent accomplished, you find sunken side decks protected by high bulwarks and extending all the way to the bow – again, just as on the 45.

Overhead is a deck-stepped, double-spreader, high-fractional rig.

A large locker in the bow provides ample stowage as well as access to the bow thruster and chain windlass. Credit: David Harding

It supports a self-tacking jib and a mainsail that, though slab-reefing as standard, is almost invariably going to be of the push-button in-mast persuasion as on our test boat.

Moving towards the stern you find twin wheels with seats right aft, above the forward lower section of the cockpit.

From here you can stand and see over the top of the deck saloon – though you will still have a blind spot ahead of the bow unless you’re well over 6ft tall – or, as is suggested, sit down and look through it.

Lifeboat stowage is beneath the helm seats in a space enclosed by the hinge-down bathing platform. Credit: David Harding

Structural advances have allowed so much more glass (toughened of course) and less pillar than would have been possible only a few years ago, so seeing through from the helm is easy enough most of the time.

The potential problem is reflection, especially if you’re on the starboard side and facing the double layer of reflections from the open door slid across inside the aft end.

Having to think about these things is an inevitable consequence of one-level living, because the deck saloon is all above deck whereas the Moody’s established rivals have theirs at a lower level.

On the Sirius 40DS , for example, it’s more than 2ft lower and designed to keep your eye-level the same whether you’re sitting in the cockpit, sitting inside or standing inside.

Those on the Nordship 40DS and Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 42 are lower again, giving you a good view to either side from within but less of a view forward and little if any aft.

Mechanical advantage

Decisions made about what works best for visibility, it’s time to harness the power of the bow thruster and 57hp of Yanmar diesel to get under way.

Slab reefing is standard, but most owners will opt for the easy-to-handle in-mast furling. Credit: David Harding

This presented few challenges on the day of our test, even if windage would be a consideration in a breeze.

In open water the Yanmar pushed us along quietly and smoothly, 1,500rpm giving 6.3 knots and 2,100rpm giving 7 knots.

Hinging up the cockpit sole reveals the engine compartment with its smooth, wipe-clean mouldings and a good amount of space for access.

Setting sail is straightforward.

A Seldén Furlex 304 is standard for the self-tacker, as is the pair of electric Lewmar 45 primary winches.

You can use the port one to furl or reef the jib if you need to. Sails unfurled and a few tweaks made, we settled down to beat into a breeze that ranged between 12 and 22 knots.

At its upper end it was as much as the boat wanted under full main and jib, but the flat water presented de-powering options that wouldn’t have been on offer in a seaway and we were perfectly comfortable most of the time.

This is a boat that definitely likes to be sailed ‘full and by’ in the old parlance: sailing deep enough to keep the log reading in the mid-6s felt best for VMG and gave us a tacking angle of within 85° on the compass.

Matching the polars might have been easier with a folding prop instead of the fixed three-blader.

For a boat of this nature it was a creditable performance, even allowing for the near-ideal conditions.

Elvstrom’s FCL laminate upgrades from the standard Dacron sails are undoubtedly worth having, not least because the greater stability of the fabric allows the mainsail to carry a greater roach.

We also had the optional outer forestay and a genoa on an electric Furlex 304.

Given the Moody’s high windage, substantial wetted area and modest spread of sail with the self-tacker, extra canvas would be useful in under 10 knots or so.

Lifting up the sole by the galley reveals a utility-cum-stowage area, here accommodating a washing machine and second fridge. Credit: David Harding

Since we were enjoying fresh conditions, we waited to unfurl the genoa until the wind was approaching the beam, and then surged along with the log nudging over 8 knots at times.

In terms of general obedience, the Moody 41 DS was not found wanting.

The rudder is big enough to maintain grip beyond normal angles of heel for a boat like this, unlike on some earlier Moodys that I have known to spin round and face whence they came with little provocation.

Seeing the sails

Helming positions are comfortable from windward or leeward, giving good sight of the jib’s luff, and the feel through the Jefa steering is positive.

Our test boat had the optional Carbonautica composite wheels as a well-worth-having upgrade from stainless steel.

Given the nature of the boat, it would be churlish to moan too much about particular aspects of the performance and handling.

Nonetheless, as she’s designed to – and does – sail, a few observations are worth making.

Full hull sections and firm bilges generate internal space as well as form stability. Performance is good for a boat of this nature. Credit: David Harding

Visibility of the headsails when you’re furling or unfurling them from the cockpit isn’t great.

It’s is a function of having a full-height deck saloon and a hard top: you can’t have it all. Colour-coding the lines, led aft through tunnels to the clutches and winches forward of the helm stations each side, would make life easier.

On our test boat they were all white with variations of black and grey fleck.

As for sail trim, a self-tacking jib will always twist open too far when the sheet is eased.

Similarly, a mainsheet taken to a fixed point close below the boom will also lose its downward component – and there’s no traveller.

Sail-trimmers will need no further explanation.

Continues below…

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Moody 45DS Saloon

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We take a closer look at the Moody 42 and see what she's all about

Nordship 40DS

Extra photographs from Yachting Monthly’s test of the Nordship 40DS

Still in the cockpit, perhaps my biggest grouse is the all-too-common absence of stowage for small items – binoculars, phones, drinks and so on that you want to be able to grab without having to dive into one of the cavernous lockers either side beneath the cockpit seats (and you have to be careful not to trap any lines near the hinges when you close the heavy lids again).

These lockers contain the two diesel tanks and leave copious amounts of space for everything else, while the liferaft lives just above the static waterline in the stern, below the helm seats, and would be easy to slide into the water with the bathing platform lowered.

A hatch in the stern gives access to the inside of the transom and is often awash, so you would want to be sure that it seals as it should.

Moving forward, the recessed side decks are easy to negotiate but there’s nothing to stop green water running all the way aft.

There’s little to interrupt your view from the deck saloon, which houses the galley and a large lounging area, as well as the chart table. Credit: David Harding

On the leeward side it should flow straight out through the stern.

From the weather deck, it seems likely that some of it will end up in the cockpit.

Drains here should get rid of it, though its arrival might come as a surprise.

Inside space on the Moody 41 DS

In the deck saloon we find the galley along the port side, a chart table forward to port (with the optional third helm station on our test boat) and a large seating area around the table to starboard.

Spend another £2,500 or so and you can lower the table at the push of a button to create an extra double berth or large lounging area.

Mahogany joinery is standard, the golden oak on Aurelia being among the options.

Along the port side of the deck saloon, the galley includes a double sink, a three-burner hob, a fridge with access from the front and top, and a large port opening to the cockpit. Credit: David Harding

A standard feature is the ‘cellar’: lifting the sole in the galley reveals steps down to a utility area complete with space for a washing machine and a second fridge as well as stowage and access to some of the electrical systems.

On the whole, access to the essential systems seems good throughout the boat, partly because of the very welcome lack of cramming.

Interior mouldings are used sparingly and much of the interior is formed by the joinery, allowing access to the outer hull.

Choosing a second heads to port saves having to share the owners en-suite. Credit: David Harding

Going forward from the deck saloon and dropping down a level, you find the main electrical panel to starboard by the steps, protected by a hinged door.

Straight ahead in the bow is the master cabin, complete with semi-island berth, stacks of stowage and hanging space, an abundance of natural light, more than generous headroom and, of course, a spacious en-suite heads and shower.

In the guest cabin you have a choice: twin berths, a double, or twins that convert to a double. Credit: David Harding

As standard, this heads is shared (via an extra door) with the guest cabin to starboard.

I suspect most owners will choose the additional heads and shower to port in a space otherwise used for walk-in stowage.

The owner’s cabin in the bow offers a semi-island berth, generous stowage and plenty of light. Credit: David Harding

The guest cabin can have a double berth, twins, or twins with an infill for a double conversion.

As the images we have featured show, the styling of the boat is modern without being garish and the detailing and quality of finish are hard to fault.

The test verdict

There’s no doubt that the Moody 41 DS does exactly what she was designed to do.

She offers a vast amount of accommodation, together with the sort of inside/outside living space never before seen on a boat of this size.

The full-height, walk-in deck saloon has its pros and cons.

The optional third helm station at the chart table means you can keep watch from inside. Credit: David Harding

Dixon and Moody made a bold move adopting this approach on a 40-footer but, by choosing not to follow the path trodden by most boats of similar size, they have created something strikingly different.

If you don’t like it, there are alternatives.

If you do like it, you will probably love it.

If the concept suits you, you’re unlikely to be disappointed by other aspects of the design.

Handling under both power and sail is straightforward on the whole and the ergonomics work well.

Quality of construction, finish and attention to detail all seem up to the mark too.

Would the Moody 41 DS suit you and your crew?

This is not a purist’s boat – and she’s not meant to be.

She’s a boat for people who, whatever their boating background, are likely to want to spend extended periods aboard, most probably in port or at anchor much of the time.

Nonetheless, while she might not conform with every blue-water sailor’s idea of what a long-distance cruiser should be, there’s no reason why she shouldn’t cross oceans.

View aft from the forecabin, showing the en-suite heads and the steps up to the deck saloon. Credit: David Harding

I even had a call from a well-known racing sailor looking for a different sort of boat.

At the other end of the spectrum, I would not be surprised if she attracted newcomers to sailing who like the idea of a boat with a conservatory and fail to understand why all boats don’t come with one.

She might also find favour among people who would otherwise be homing in on – or perhaps moving away from – owning a catamaran or motor boat, not wanting the beam of one or the running costs of the other.

With so much to offer, I suspect the Moody 41 DS is likely to find wide appeal.

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Moody DS 54 Boat Review

• By Herb McCormick
• Updated: March 19, 2018

Once upon a time, Moody Yachts was a very English company building boats in Great Britain (for nearly 200 years) that exemplified what we’d expect from a longtime British boatyard. In other words, their vessels were stout and robust, quite seaworthy and somewhat conservative, with straightforward interior layouts and accouterments. They weren’t necessarily flashy, but they certainly got the job done. Those days are long over. Now, Moodys are built in ­Germany by Hanse Yachts, which took over the brand a decade ago and has become one of the world’s most prodigious, prolific and sophisticated production boatbuilders. And nowhere is this change more evident than with a model introduced to the United States last fall, the Moody DS54, the initials standing for “deck saloon.” Interestingly, the hull of the Moody, with modifications, is the same one employed in a pair of larger Hanse offerings, the 575 and the 588, and was designed by the German naval architecture office Judel/Vrolijk, which is best known for high-performance raceboats, including America’s Cup winners. The interior was then fashioned by veteran Moody designer Bill Dixon of Dixon Yacht Design, making the DS54 a collaboration, of sorts. Even so, this is definitely not your grandpa’s Moody.

That’s evident from the boat’s powerful lines, with a straight stem forward, a long waterline and commanding topsides, dotted with six windows in the hull to each side. The pilothouse is relatively low and sleek, with an eyebrow overhanging the forward window. Teak decks are standard; the foredeck is low and flush (there are fitted cushions that make a cozy daybed), and leads to a solent setup with twin Furlex furlers on the bow. The double-spreader Seldén rig incorporates a self-tending staysail. There’s a substantial bulwark topped by a stainless-steel handrail, both of which make wandering up the side decks a safe and comfortable experience. All in all, it’s a quite handsome and imposing profile.

One of the signature features of the design is the spacious cockpit with a pair of long settees sandwiching a large, foldable table, all of which can be closed off in inclement weather with an overhead retractable soft Sunbrella Bimini; it can also be rolled back when the sun shines. There are twin wheels, each fronted by a set of large pods with engine and (bow and stern) thruster controls, sailing instruments, chart plotters and so on. Large and comfortable helmsmen’s seats are situated all the way aft. All sailing controls and running rigging are led aft to port and starboard Lewmar winches just forward of the Jefa Steering pedestals. The transom folds down hydraulically to create a substantial swim/­boarding platform. To top it off, there’s even a nifty retractable passerelle for Med mooring.

The cockpit and the main saloon are each situated on the same level and accessed through sliding glass doors, much like on a catamaran. There are several different accommodations plans from which to choose, including either a galley up in the saloon or one down a set of five stairs, out of the way of the central living space (our test boat included the latter). Either way, there’s a generous U-shaped settee to port with an adjacent dining table, and a spacious navigation station to starboard with all the tools (including autopilot controls) necessary to make it a tidy indoor steering station. The owners suite is forward; a double cabin is aft. There’s also a guest cabin in the middle of the boat (or two cabins if you opt for the galley-­­up arrangement).

Construction is top-notch, with a fiberglass layup that employs isophthalic gelcoat and vinylester resin with a ­balsa-core sandwich above the waterline. The keel is iron and is available in a shoal or deep-draft configuration. A state-of-the-art CZone ­digital switching and monitoring system is the hub of the electrical system, instruments, gauges and so forth.

The DS54 impressed our Boat of the Year judging team. Said judge Ed Sherman: “This is part of that new genre of deck-saloon models where they’ve actually decided, ‘OK, we want people in the main saloon to be able to look out the windows and see the world around them versus looking through a skylight when you’re buried deep down in the bowels of the boat.’ That layout always annoyed me. It seemed totally illogical. But Moody has figured it out. It’s a nice all-round view up there.”

“I think it was the first of many times we heard the word lifestyle during our dockside inspections,” said judge Bill Bolin. “The company is very strong on the notion that this is a boat that caters to those who want to entertain on the boat, that are going to spend a lot of time in the cockpit, which they maximized. And with the deck saloon on the same level, you have a giant living space for playing, or entertaining, or whatever you want to do there. They did that very well.”

“There’s a good trend of opening up these side decks on new boats, and on the Moody, that was just exemplary,” said judge Tim Murphy. “Because it was a deck saloon, there was a rail inboard that was just beautiful, that took you up to the mast. You couldn’t ask for better, smoother handholds, with no edges. And then outboard you’ve got this true rail that goes all the way around the boat. There’s no other boat we’ve seen that has such secure side decks.”

Unfortunately, we tested the boat on a light-air day with the wind never touching more than 5 knots. Even so, the DS54’s performance was pretty stellar, making over 3 knots in little more breeze than that. I’d love to sail this boat in a bit of a blow. I’m generally not a fan of in-mast mainsails, but the one on the Moody, set on a Seldén spar, sported vertical battens and was a good-looking sail. I also like the solent rig, which is a very versatile option for long-range cruising, providing easily managed sails no matter the conditions, light or heavy.

All in all, for a boat with a price tag north of a million bucks, you’d certainly expect a first-class yacht that is a cut above your average cruiser. Moody has delivered on that promise, honoring an old name with a fresh new design that will take its owners far and wide in ample style.

Specifications

Moody Yachts 978-239-6598 yachts.group/moody.gb

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Moody Unveils DS48: A New Dimension in Bluewater Yachting

Moody introduces the DS48 – a medium-sized bluewater yach t designed to meet the most discerning needs. Following the success of its predecessors, the award-winning DS41 and DS54, the DS48 continues the Mood y legacy with its expansive saloon offering a panoramic 360-degree view of the surroundings. Unique to Moody is the comfortable and secure walkaround deck with a high bulwark and fixed railing, providing a distinctive experience akin to a catamaran on a single hull.

Collaboratively designed with Bill Dixon and the Dixon Yacht Design team, the DS48 epitomizes the signature blend of volume and performance seen in the Moody DS range. This 48-foot gem promises the typical Moody ‘monomaran’ experience, ensuring a seamless transition between the generously protected cockpit and the deck saloon.

The interior is exceptionally spacious, a testament to the voluminous hull design. While offering a safe and comfortable sailing experience in all conditions, the DS48 stands out as a true owner’s boat for blue water sailing, boasting perfect sailing characteristics. Versatility is key, with numerous layout variations making it adaptable for various preferences and needs.

Moody DS48 Key Features

Hull: Composite bulkheads laminated to the hull guarantee maximum structural stability. The DS48 features a standard tunnel bow thruster with a holding function, complemented by an optional retractable stern thruster for precision in tight spaces. The large dinghy garage accommodates an inflatable boat up to 2.8 meters, with the optional Moody Smart Tender System making dinghy operations effortless.

Deck: The iconic Moody walkaround deck ensures exceptional safety at sea, featuring a high bulwark and fixed railing. The foredeck offers a spacious sun pad, and an optional dinette is available, complete with a table stowed in the separate sail locker. The floating roof, resting on sturdy aluminum supports, can be covered with solar panels for extended autonomy away from the harbor.

Rig: The high-performance rig with three pairs of spreaders and a sail area of up to 156 sqm ensures excellent sailing characteristics. An optional furling mast with a double forestay is available.

Cockpit: The openable soft top reveals two cockpit tables, ample seating areas, and additional seating options in the rear cockpit area. An optional wet bar at the stern with a barbecue grill, fridge, and sink enhances hospitality. Two large stowage lockers provide ample space for a long voyage. The elevated helmsman’s position offers an unobstructed view, and the bathing platform, accessed via a comfortable staircase, leads to the water through optional bathing stairs.

Deck Saloon: Seamlessly laminated safety glass windows in the saloon offer a 360-degree panoramic view. The spacious L-shaped galley features a three-burner gas cooktop, large worktop, and optional amenities such as a dishwasher and up to 380-liter refrigerator capacity.

Interior: The DS48 offers approximately 25% more interior space compared to a 58-foot yacht, thanks to the deck saloon overlapping with the aft cabin. Three cabins and up to three bathrooms with separate showers are possible, with the third cabin configurable as a multifunctional space. Abundant natural light in the saloon and cabins, coupled with a thoughtful ventilation concept, ensures a pleasant atmosphere throughout.

Starting at a base price of €864,900 plus VAT, the Moody DS48 will make the international debut at boot Dusseldorf 2024 (20-28 January).

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• Guided tour

River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

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Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

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Designed to Explore

The ethos of Moody Yachts has remained unchanged for many years.  Exceptional engineering, quality above everything else and a simple desire to be the best.

Whether you intend to point your Moody at the horizon and explore what the world's oceans have to offer or simply enjoy time aboard with family and friends, you can be confident that your Moody has been engineered to look after you.

Safety & Strength

As soon as you start to consider a new Yacht, safety has to come first.  With a Moody, you will notice the deep bulwarks, solid guardrails, protected helm positions and many other aspects designed to put your safety first.

The hull is re-enforced with a huge structural subframe to spread the keel and rig loads safely.  The substantial hull to deck joint adds significant strength, which twinned with structural bulkheads create a yacht you can rely on when the going gets tough.

Comfort & Luxury

Spending time onboard should feel as homely as possible and the designers at Moody have left no stone unturned to achieve this.

Spacious cabins, abundant storage, light, ventilation, quality fittings and effective systems aboard a Moody mean that your time cruising will feel second nature.

The luxury that comes from the quality materials and finishings, just complete the experience.

Deck Saloon Living

A number of yachts profess to be deck saloons but very few truly are.

A real deck saloon offers a full 360-degree panoramic view from the saloon.  You can't underestimate just how valuable this is, whether the weather is inclement or simply too hot!

The ability to fully enjoy the beautiful surroundings from the comfort of the saloon, adds a dimension to your time aboard, which is impossible to quantify.

Craftsmanship

You choose a prestige car because not only does it transport you to where you want to go but it does so in such a way that you feel special, everything you touch and feel exudes quality and a Moody is the same.

Beautifully crafted woodwork, rich materials, and attention to detail that is only possible when you put it above everything else.

Genuine luxury achieved.

Latest News

UK DEBUT of the Moody DS48 at the South Coast Boat Show

See the Moody DS48 at Hamble Point Marina

Moody Decksaloon 41

Moody Decksaloon 45

Moody Decksaloon 48

Moody Decksaloon 54

Welcome to Inspiration Marine Group Ltd, the sole UK importer of Moody Yachts. Let us guide you through the exciting adventure of buying a new yacht.

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• News on Bonds

Groundbreaking like every Moody before it: Moody Decksaloon 41 

Never has the philosophy of living on one level been implemented more relentlessly than in the new Moody Decksaloon 41. The elegant deckhouse featuring 360° panorama glazing makes you feel as if you are living in the lap of luxury, whatever the weather. With its exemplary suitability for all weather conditions, the Moody Decksaloon 41 lives up to the Moody tradition in every way. The new Moody Decksaloon 41 — a masterpiece of the art of modern boat-building and engineering.

Presented just for you   your dream Moody

We cordially invite you to your own custom boat show on the yacht of your dreams. Your Moody dealer looks forward to meeting you. They will arrange for an exclusive presentation on the Moody model of your choosing and explain all of the details on and below deck. This personal appointment means no time constraints, no crowds, and it complies with all health and safety rules. Schedule your exclusive consultation today and get ready for an exciting presentation!

Moody Decksaloon 41  Exterior

83 m² sail area, high rig.

A high-performance sail plan gives the Moody DS41 enormous potential for speed. The double forestay that comes as standard makes it easier for you to change the headsail. The upper shrouds are fastened to the freeboard deck and the lower shrouds to the superstructure, enabling you to pass comfortably between them. All those not at the helm can enjoy the cruise in the large, protected cockpit area. There can be no doubt that the Moody DS41 offers you the ideal conditions for an unforgettable sailing experience – right down to the smallest detail.

Lifestyle á la Moody

Via the walkaround deck, you can easily reach the sunbed on the foredeck. If you want a leisurely lunch in the shade after sunbathing, simply go back into the cockpit and extend the Bimini top. All you need to do then is fold out the teak table and take a seat on the soft upholstery. That is luxury living – on board the Moody DS41.

Patip push & sliding door

You can turn the cockpit into an extended living area in next to no time. What's more, you can do so in a classy fashion whilst saving space and using just one hand with the innovative PATIO PUSH & SLIDING DOOR.

Moving – even at anchor

From whichever angle you look at the DS41, its silhouette embodies modern sportiness. The slender bow with a steeply pitched stem and the convex sheerline – it all reveals its dynamic character. The hull windows exhibit the clear geometry that is typical of Moody. With its sweeping roof line, the deck saloon fits in seamlessly with the overall aesthetic.

Moody Decksaloon 41  Interior

The architecture of freedom.

It is not only in the deck saloon that all limitations appear to dissolve. The same captivating atmosphere also awaits you in the owner's cabin. There, it is created by the extraordinarily large window in the foredeck as well as extra-large hull windows.

Sophisticated all-weather concept

Weather conditions can surprise a sailor – but not with the Moody DS41. Thanks to its comprehensive, high-quality equipment, you will be ready for anything. A protected inside helm is located on the port side of the deck saloon. Sail to the place of your dreams, whether north or south. The DS41 can be equipped with auxiliary heating or air conditioning in accordance with your wishes.

Light, uncluttered, spacious: the interior

The interior of the DS41 exudes modern, warm minimalism and offers a generous amount of space everywhere. The cosy U-shaped sofa with the large saloon table and the linear galley create a spacious ambience in the living area. Added to this are the cleverly integrated stowage spaces. The extra-large three-door wardrobe in the owner's cabin is a masterstroke.

Make your yacht unique

Design something that is unique and full of character from the customisable equipment options.

Fashion the interior from a choice of exquisite materials and elegant colours. Pinpoint your yacht's sailing characteristics, from the sailcloth right down to the keel. Configure your on-board equipment – including the engine, sound system and navigation instruments.

Saloon Layout  Layouts for Decksaloon 41

Interior layouts  layouts for decksaloon 41, video gallery , moody decksaloon 41 exclusive explanation.

Every Moody yacht is the culmination of a yacht building tradition that goes back over a century. Behind her good looks, the new Moody DS41 is a startingly clever high-tech boat. Come on board and join her on a day at sea.

Moody Decksaloon 41 Guided Tour

There is room for the entire family on our Moody DS41 and whether your kids are on the foredeck, in the cockpit or in the saloon, you will always be able to keep an eye on them – Moody’s characteristic “one-level-living” makes it possible. Join us on a walk around to discover what else it has to offer. Would you have found all the cleverly hidden storage spaces?

The world is talking about Moody   Reviews and awards

Cruising world boat of the year winner 2023.

Category: Best Full-Size Cruiser

British Yachtings Award 2020 winner

Category: Cruising Yacht of the Year

European Yacht of the Year 2021 - nominated

Category Luxury Cruiser - nominated

Moody DS41 Best Sailboat Award 2023

Best boats 2023 sail september 2022.

The more things change, they more they seem to stay the same. Some of it is timing. Some of it is just the way of the world. Either way, it can be fascinating to see the evolution of the boatbuilding industry over the years, as has been evident in SAIL magazine`s annual Best Boats contest.

Moody DS41: Bericht - YACHT 05/20

HanseYachts AG hat mit der Moody DS41 ihre kleinste Decksalonyacht mit Innensteuerstand herausgebracht. Sie mischt intelligent gute Merkmale von Seglern, Motorbooten und Katamaranen.

Moody Decksaloon 41: Bericht - Yacht Info 1/2019 März 2019

"Living on one level", schon immer das Markenzeichen von Moody, wurde mit der DS41 in die Perfektion geführt. Absolut barrierefrei und mit einem eleganten Deckshaus, dessen 360° Panoramaverglasung hochexklusiven Wohnkomfort in allen Wetterlagen bietet.

Moody DS41: Bericht - Segeln 09/20

Gut behütet und agil: Die Neue aus der Moody-DS-Reihe stellt sich dem SEGELN-Test in der Neustädter Bucht. Bei moderaten drei Beaufort spielt die 41-Fuß-Yacht ihre Starken aus: Bedienkomfort im sicheren Cockpit, viel Platz unter Deck und überraschend muntere Segeleigenschaften.

Moody DS41: Bericht - YACHT 18/20

Ähnliche Konzepte, die selben Vorzüge und trotzdem so heterogen: drei aktuelle Decksalon-Yachten um 40 Fuß im Vergleich. Teil 1: Wo liegen die Gegensätze, und was haben die Schiffe im Wohnkomfort zu bieten?

Moody DS41: Bericht - YACHT 19/20

Drei Decksalon-Yachten um 40 Fuß Rumpflänge im Gruppentest. Teil 2: Wie sie sich segeln und bedienen lassen, wie sie ausgestattet sind und wie sich die Preise einordnen lassen.

Moody Decksaloon 41: Nautica y Yates N°51

La marca propiedad del Grupo Hanse presenta este nuevo Deck Saloon de 12,5 metros de eslora que sigue la filosofía de la cu­bierta a un solo nivel que se inició con el Moody 41 y que está nominado a European Yacht of the Year en la categoría de crucero de lujo.

Moody Decksaloon 41 Review - Mares N°40

El Moody Decksalon 41 ha sido nombrado Yate de crucero del año 2020 en los British Yachting Awards. Este premio especial se decide exclusivamente mediante la votación en línea de los lectores de la revista británica Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting.

Moody Decksaloon 41: Voile Magazine N°300

L'héritage de la croisière luxe – depuis son rachat en 2007 par le groupe HanseYachts, la continuité avec l'architecte historique de ce chantier cree en 1850 sur les berges de la rivière britannique Hamble, Bill Dixon, s'est avérée judicieuse puisque pas moins de quatre modelés sont depuis sortis des moules.

Moody Decksaloon 41: Review - Vela a Motore N°98 08-09/20

Il dodici metri è il terzo arrivato nella gamma Decksaloon del cantiere Moody. Una barca che fa del comfort e della sicurezza in navigazione le sue dot i migliori.

Moody Decksaloon 41  compared

For you to download  documents and specifications, moody decksaloon 41 brochure, moody decksaloon 41 standard specification, moody decksaloon 41 layout option 2.

Lower deck cabin A1-B3 Option

Moody Decksaloon 41 Layout Option 3

Lower deck cabin A1-B4 Option

Moody Decksaloon 41 Layout Standard

Lower deck cabin A1-B1 Standard

Moody Decksaloon 41 Layout Option 1

Lower deck cabin A1-B2 Option

Moody Decksaloon 41 Layout Main Deck C1

Cabin concept main deck C1

Moody Decksaloon 41 Layout Main Deck with Roof

Cabin Concept Main Deck with Roof

Moody Decksaloon 41 Cabin Concept

Moody material and color card, order brochure.

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