Overview
About this vessel
Merlin, a striking carbon fibre Kaiko 52 custom cruiser-racer that epitomises offshore performance, versatility, and exceptional Australian craftsmanship. Designed by acclaimed naval architect Phil Kaiko, renowned for his high-performance offshore vessels, Merlin was built by McConaghy Boats in Sydney, one of the world 27s respected advanced composite builders, with a legacy of producing some of the most competitive maxi and grand prix racing boats.
Constructed from carbon fibre, including hull, deck, and spars 2D Merlin is purpose-built for offshore campaigns and has proudly competed in multiple Sydney to Hobart Yacht Races. She has recently undergone an out of water inspection in May 2025, and reapplication of high end antifoul. Her lightweight displacement, twin rudders, and lifting keel (draft 1.3m up / 3.15m down) offer remarkable agility and control in a wide range of conditions, making her equally suited to competitive offshore racing or relaxed coastal cruising.
Merlin is powered by a 85hp Yanmar 4JH2-TE diesel engine (approx. 2744 hours) paired with a feathering prop, delivering reliable propulsion for longer passages. Below deck, her interior is both practical and efficient, featuring 1 queen, 2 doubles and 4 single berths, a practical galley with metho stove, eutectic fridge, sink, and a 17L/hr watermaker. The single head is electric and supported by a holding tank system.
Her rigging consists of a carbon fibre mast with solid stainless rod. Deck gear includes hydraulic primary winches, a carbon spinnaker pole for asymmetrical spinnakers, and a jib furler 2D all optimized for shorthanded or fully crewed racing. Electronics and navigation are comprehensive, with B&G Hydra 2000 instrumentation, Coursemaster 750 autopilot, Navico Class B AIS, Furuno GPS, Icom VHF, Codan HF radio, and a Clarion stereo.
Safety is equally prioritised, with an EPIRB (GME 406 GPS exp. 01/2028), flares, life jackets, fire extinguishers, and electric bilge pump onboard.
Now lying in Port Douglas, Queensland, Merlin presents a rare opportunity to own a high-calibre, Australian-built offshore cruiser-racer with an impressive track record. Ideal for race weeks, offshore events, or extended coastal cruising, Merlin is ready to race, cruise and enjoy.
