2016 Elite 20m Mid-Pilothouse/Skylounge Motor Yacht

Alexander Marine Australia are pleased to present the 2016 Elite 20m Mid-Pilothouse/Skylounge Motor Yacht 'Highlander' to the international market.

Custom-built by respected New Zealand craftsmen Allan Tongs Boatbuilders and designed by renowned Bill Upfold of Elite Marine Design New Zealand, 'Highlander' is a finely executed custom motor yacht that reflects the pedigree of New Zealand boatbuilding at its best. Purpose-built for serious Australasian cruising, she combines robust offshore capability with a highly practical layout, expansive entertaining spaces and thoughtful owner-operator features throughout. She was entirely two-pack painted from new, as is standard for custom builds in New Zealand, ensuring a durable and high-quality finish.

Boarding 'Highlander' via the teak-laid swim platform, guests are welcomed by a practical space complete with swim ladder for easy water access. Cleverly integrated into the transom is access to a tender garage housing a secondary AB 2.7m RIB tender with Mercury 3.3hp outboard, neatly stowed beneath the cockpit sole, complementing the larger main tender carried up on the boat deck. Steps to starboard lead up to the cockpit, while low-maintenance non-skid walkaround side decks provide safe and secure movement around the vessel.

The teak-laid cockpit has been exceptionally well configured for both entertaining and functionality. A cherry timber cockpit table forms the centrepiece of this versatile alfresco space, which enjoys fantastic weather protection courtesy of the overhead boat deck and three-sided clears for all weather entertaining, a Plancha flat plate gas BBQ, eutectic chest fridge/freezer and an additional aft docking station for effortless close-quarters manoeuvring. A thoughtfully positioned cockpit day head located under the stairs up to the boat deck allows guests to freshen up without entering the main accommodation, ideal after swimming or watersports.

Entering the main deck, the galley is immediately positioned aft to port, creating seamless interaction between indoor and outdoor entertaining areas. Finished in warm cherry timber cabinetry, this well-appointed galley features a Mitsubishi upright fridge/freezer, additional eutectic chest refrigeration, Miele three-element induction cooktop and oven, Panasonic microwave, and Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer dishwasher. A hi/lo electric opening window connects directly to the cockpit for easy service and ventilation.

Just forward of the galley to port is the inviting dining area, where a U-shaped settee wraps around a polished dining table, creating a comfortable and social setting for indoor meals aboard 'Highlander'.

Opposite the dining area to starboard is the on-deck master stateroom, a standout feature rarely found in vessels of this size. This private retreat offers a queen berth, generous storage and a well-appointed ensuite, providing owners with exceptional comfort and privacy. Its same-level layout also offers excellent practicality, allowing easy access to the galley and cockpit amenities without the need to navigate stairs, a particularly valuable feature for those seeking easier mobility throughout the vessel.

Ascending two steps forward brings you into the elevated forward saloon, a warm and welcoming lounge area finished in rich cherry timber throughout. Designed to comfortably accommodate up to twelve guests, the lounge area features expansive settee seating to starboard arranged around a coffee table and facing a hi/lo Panasonic TV. Entertainment is further enhanced by the KVH TracVision TV3 satellite antenna, while an Isotherm bar fridge ensures refreshments are always close at hand. A portside access door opens directly to the side deck, while the internal staircase leads conveniently to the mid-pilothouse/skylounge above.

Accommodation below deck is impressively versatile, allowing 'Highlander' to comfortably host large family groups or extended cruising parties, with the master cabin, as previously noted, located on the main deck. Below deck, twin midship guest cabins each feature double beds and private ensuites, while the starboard guest cabin offers two over-and-under single berths. Forward, an additional cabin provides four single over-and-under V-berths, serviced by a separate bathroom to starboard. A Fisher & Paykel washing machine and separate dryer are also conveniently located on this level, supporting liveaboard capability.

The mid-pilothouse/skylounge aboard 'Highlander' is another exceptional entertaining and operational space, accessible via both the internal saloon staircase and external cockpit stairs. The aft elevated boat deck features a non-skid finish and accommodates the vessel's primary tender, an AB 12 VST 3.66m RIB powered by a Yamaha 30hp outboard, launched and retrieved with ease via the Steelhead Marine 450kg davit. Forward, generous seating areas to both port and starboard create yet another inviting gathering space with commanding views.

The enclosed helm is superbly suited to comfortable cruising in all conditions, offering a protected command station ideal for serious passagemaking. Dual leather helm chairs provide comfort, while twin Furuno TZ Touch 19" MFD's form the centrepiece of a comprehensive Furuno navigation suite including GPS plotter, sounder, open-array radar and autopilot. Additional systems include Icom VHF communications, Scania engine data displays, and Max Power bow and stern thrusters, ensuring precise control and confidence underway.

Engine room access is via a cockpit hatch, with stairs leading down through a dedicated battery storage area to starboard before opening into a vast, immaculately presented engine room with ample space for additional equipment as required. This well-considered space houses twin Scania DI13 diesel engines, delivering dependable and efficient long-range performance. Supporting systems include a Kohler 13kVA generator and Blue Water 104LPH watermaker, ensuring 'Highlander' is exceptionally well-suited for self-sufficient cruising.

'Highlander' represents a rare opportunity to acquire a pedigree New Zealand-built custom mid-pilothouse/skylounge motor yacht with exceptional volume, practical accommodation, and proven capability. Combining timeless craftsmanship, versatile entertaining spaces and serious offshore systems, she is equally at home exploring Australia's coastline, cruising New Zealand's pristine waters, or embarking on bluewater adventures.

You are invited to book a private inspection to view this vessel. If you are unable to travel to inspect this vessel, we would be pleased to offer you a personal guided video tour via telephone with one of our yacht consultants.

Lying: Auckland, New Zealand.