Nearly 40 years after redefining ocean cruising with the original Nordhavn 46, Pacific Asian Enterprises has announced its successor: the Nordhavn 46 MK II. The new model blends the spirit of the original with modern engineering, improved efficiency and updated styling.
Introduced in 1989, the first Nordhavn 46 helped pioneer the concept of a full-displacement, long-range powerboat designed for adventurous cruisers, with more ocean crossings and circumnavigations than any other production powerboat. The 46 MK II builds on that legacy with contemporary design and advanced systems tailored to today’s passagemakers.
“The N46 MK II is everything we’ve learned from nearly 700 ocean-going boats and four decades of real-world experience, but in a modern package,” says Chief of Design Jeff Leishman.
Key updates include twin engines for reliability, a refined hull developed with computational fluid dynamics and a quieter, stronger build using advanced materials. The new model also offers 30 percent more fuel capacity, lithium-ion batteries, proportional thruster controls and a redesigned interior with near-standing headroom in the engine room.
Built at PAE’s South Coast facility in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, the 46 MK II follows the batch-build approach used for the Nordhavn 41 and 51 to streamline production and improve efficiency.
“The Nordhavn 46 MK II isn’t just a tribute,” added PAE Vice President Jim Leishman. “It’s the most capable, efficient, and comfortable Nordhavn under 50 feet we’ve ever built.”
The first hull is scheduled to launch in spring 2026.
