Our test M53 revealed an updated Maritimo interior scheme designed by David Stewart. The details jazzed up the whole package, while still remaining on brand. The builder avoids flashy treatments, preferring more timeless design elements that will still look good 20 years from now. Our test boat featured Maritimo’s trademark aft galley. It’s one of those items that lead you to question why it took so long for production builders to embrace the concept. A sliding, three-panel glass-and-aluminum door allows a seamless transition to the cockpit. An island with additional stowage is a nice touch, and the full-height pantry is huge.
Opposite to port is a three-quarter-height refrigerator and freezer unit, along with the electrical panel. It’s so refreshing to see a properly arranged electrical panel at eye level that doesn’t require you to stand on your head and pirouette to turn on the lights. A Fisher & Paykel four-burner cooktop, a dishwasher and a Panasonic microwave complete this cook-friendly galley. 
Large gatherings are easily accommodated in the salon, where an L-shape settee with table to port and a straight settee to starboard serve nicely. The lower deck features three staterooms and two heads. It’s a toss-up when deciding which to choose as the master stateroom. Though the amidships stateroom with island berth, large opening window and en suite head is designated as the master by the builder, the forward stateroom with an island berth and abundant natural light and stowage and a shared head would be my choice. A single-berth cabin is starboard and would make a fine snore box or guest accommodations.
Cruiser friendly touches continue in the cockpit with details like freshwater and saltwater washdowns, additional stowage and a fiberglass unit across the transom that houses an optional barbecue. Side decks are wide, and the high gunwale is a smart detail.
With so many new Maritimo models introduced in the past 24 months, it was refreshing to see that the builder hasn’t forgotten the type of boat that launched its success. If you’re in the market for a stout performance cruiser, make sure the M53 is on your list.
LOA: 57’8”
BEAM: 17’1”
DRAFT: 4’5”
DISPL.: 59,600 lb.
FUEL: 1,017 gal.
WATER: 211 gal.
ENGINE OPTIONS: 2 x 715 hp Cummins QSM 11 diesels; 2 x 800 hp Volvo D13 diesels
ENGINES TESTED: 2 x 715 hp Volvo D12 diesels
BASE PRICE: $1,655,500
Maritimo, 206-462-6080; www.maritimousa.com
Test conditions: Speeds were measured by GPS in the Coral Sea, with gradual swells and light winds, with ½ load of fuel and water and seven people on board. Fuel consumption was calculated by the electronic engine-monitoring system. Sound levels were measured at the helm.
RPM Knots GPH dB(A)
900 9.2 6.7 60
1200 10.2 16.0 63
1500 16.3 27.0 65
1800 22.0 40.0 68
2100 28.2 54.1 72
2370 32.2 75.0 76
