The entry-level Monte Carlo 4 is put to the test in Mallorca
You would be justified to assume that the new MC4 is nothing more than a smaller and cheaper version of last year’s MC5. And, to an extent, you’re right because it does take all that is good about the larger boat and scale it down to a 45ft package.
The key thing about the MC4, though, is the section of the market it’s competing in. In the mid-40ft flybridge market this boat finds itself in it is a true breath of fresh air – as minty fresh, in fact, as its eye-popping hull colour.
The likes of the Princess 43, Fairline Squadron 42 and Bavaria Virtess 420 are all good, even great boats in their own right but think about how many heads would swivel if you turned up to a UK marina in this.
The layout is one with two cabins, both ensuite, with the owners getting a real treat for a boat of this size in the shape of a full-beam master.
There are two engine options available, IPS400, which uses Vovlo’s 4-cylinder D4 300s and IPS500, as fitted to our test boat, which means a pair of the excellent D6 370s.
As with the MC5, top end speed is less of a concern than cruising prowess with the 4 feeling very comfortable at a 22-25 knot canter. That unique hull shape did the business in afternoon chop off Palma, too.
You can read the full report in the July 2014 issue of Motor Boat & Yachting.
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