BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE
THE MONTE CARLO YACHTS 76 SKYLOUNGE ADDS A HIGH LEVEL OF CUSTOMIZATION FOR CRUISING COMFORT
Iitaly’s monte carlo yachts expanded its lineup this past year with the MCY 70 Skylounge, and it’s adding to its offerings again with an MCY 76 Skylounge. Like the its smaller sistership, the MCY 76 Skylounge has the builder’s signature high freeboard and overlaid circular hullside windows. Enclosing the flybridge adds interior volume, offers all-season cruising and creates an aft terrace. ¶ The main deck is broad like a penthouse suite. Hull No. 1 has bleached-oak woodwork, light fabrics and white overheads, which add to the salon’s open feel along with the 6-foot-8-inch headroom. A single-pane windshield is flanked by curved side glass, creating panoramic vistas and allowing in ambient light. ¶ Nestled under the forward windshield is a raised U-shaped settee with twin pedestal tables—perfect for a small group or a quiet breakfast. There’s an additional lounge to port. Amidships is another oasis for relaxing and enjoying the views. ¶ The galley is aft with off-white cabinetry that hides the appliances while keeping them easily accessible. Twin undercounter fridge units allow for drinks to be kept in one side and food in the other. A freezer drawer, dishwasher, microwave oven and stowage are all beneath, with cabinets above. The only thing protruding from the counter is the faucet for the stainless-steel sink with an etched-glass backsplash. Hardwood soles should make for easy cleanup. ¶ Since the MCY 76 Skylounge is a semicustom yacht, the galley can be moved forward, creating space for a formal dining table amidships and a salon lounge aft. In either configuration, alfresco dining on the aft deck is possible with a transom bench seat and room for loose chairs. Dual staircases lead to the hydraulic swim platform and maintain the flow of traffic. ¶ The yacht’s sky lounge is accessible via a floating staircase amidships in the salon and has an all-weather social area with easy access to the captain. The owner of this yacht is an enthusiastic owner-operator; apparently, at times, the hired captain has to ask the owner if he can drive. ¶ The helm has three 24-inch Raymarine multifunction displays set into individual, leather-wrapped pods. The dash also has space for just about any electronic controller or display that’s desired. An overhead console is ideal for displays that just need a glance