The 2018 iteration of the Monte Carlo 5 (MC5) is touted by the builder as bridging the gap between the French Beneteau Power and Italian-design Monte Carlo families (all owned by Beneteau, by the way). The summary is apt, for even the outward appearance looks a bit like the
offspring between a Beneteau Swift Trawler and the more luxury sport yacht Monte Carlos.
A few design features grab one’s attention at a glance. The foredeck is simply massive for this 50’ yacht, complete with large lounge pads for the guests. Also prominent is the large open flybridge, again, spacious for a 50-footer. The flybridge naturally hosts a helm (single-seat) with generous padded seating and table options with fridge/mini bar. A set of stairs leads directly from the flybridge to the cabin below and another set of stairs leads down to the covered cockpit. Not only is there more padded seating and entertainment space in the cockpit, but the cockpit also allows access to the large swimstep off the transom. The awning covering the cockpit is adjustable and can be stowed or extended depending on user preference (or the weather).
The rest of the 50’ Open’s exterior maintains the philosophy of open water consideration, notably the single forward walkway starboard sheltered by fiberglass all the way to the bow where high railings take over the supporting role. The walkway wraps around the wheelhouse to port at the bow, and another robust fiberglass structure serves as both walkway shelter and a forward-facing bench accessible through a pair of beefy doors.
Leaving the cockpit through a set of all-glass doors brings the visitor into the main cabin. The MC5 has two layout options: one with two enclosed suite-style berths with separate heads in the lower deck and another with three staterooms with accompanying heads. Both versions also have crew quarters aft. The helm in the cabin located in front of the salon is quite slick in that it’s designed for use with joystick and panel electronics.
The MC5 is all-in with it’s Volvo IPS 600 technology and comes with two inboard of the Volvo IPS 600 diesel engines. One popular feature of this system is the ease of maneuverability in close quarters. The manufacturer reports a cruise speed of 25 knots and a maximum speed of 29 knots.
The MC5 is certainly a hybrid of sorts and should have many of the pros of both the trawler and sport yacht worlds. If you’re interested, local Monte Carlo dealer Denison Yacht Sales can provide additional info and pricing options.
