Michael Good
· 15.08.2026
Below deck, the Pure 42 demonstrates just how thoroughly thought-through its long-distance cruising concept is. The second part of the in-depth feature on YACHT-TV focuses on the layout, build quality, storage space and on-board technology – and on the question of how well this unusual aluminium deck saloon yacht is equipped for long voyages.
The first part of our video presentation of the new Pure 42 focused on the concept, design, sailing performance and deck fittings. Now we’re heading below deck. And there it becomes clear that Pure Yachts, the fledgling Kiel-based shipyard, has developed its exceptional long-distance cruising concept with at least the same level of consistency.
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The Pure 42 is not simply a cruising yacht that has been fitted out for adventure with nothing more than a robust aluminium hull and a lifting keel. When it comes to the interior fit-out, too, the shipyard has adopted a clear philosophy: as much usable space as possible, high-quality and durable materials, easy access to the technical systems, and a fit-out designed to withstand the rigours of long voyages.
The layout differs significantly from that of traditional cruising yachts. The saloon and cockpit are almost on the same level. To achieve this, the saloon has been raised and the cockpit lowered accordingly. Large windows in the deckhouse provide all-round views and plenty of light.
At the same time, this layout has far-reaching implications for the interior design. In the aft section of the yacht, beneath the raised saloon and the lowered cockpit, there is plenty of space for storage and technical installations. The actual living areas are concentrated further forward and on a lower level.
A distinctive feature is the mid-cabin beneath the raised saloon. It houses a double berth, making use of a space that on many conventional yachts of this size would scarcely be available as a fully-fledged sleeping area. Together with the forward cabin, the Pure 42 thus has two double cabins. To the side of the central cabin is an open space, the use of which can be tailored to the owner’s preferences.
Unlike many mass-produced yachts, the Pure 42 is not about offering as many different cabin and bathroom layouts as possible. The basic layout remains largely fixed but can be customised in detail. The bathroom and toilet are separate, which can prove particularly practical in everyday life on board with several people.
What is particularly striking is how consistently Pure Yachts makes use of existing cavities and interstitial spaces. There are numerous easily accessible storage compartments beneath seating areas, floorboards and fitted units. This is a crucial consideration, particularly on a blue-water yacht. After all, on long voyages, it is not just personal belongings and provisions that need to be stowed away, but also tools, spare parts, safety equipment and consumables.
Pure Yachts also takes an unconventional approach to furniture construction. Instead of traditional plywood structures, the shipyard uses lightweight composite panels in a sandwich construction with a foam core. According to the shipyard, this is said to result in a weight saving of around 1.5 tonnes compared with a conventional fit-out. This plays a key role in limiting the Pure 42’s total weight, ready to sail, to just around 9.7 tonnes.
However, ‘lightweight construction’ does not in any way imply flimsy furniture here. In the YACHT test, the interior fit-out impressed with its high build quality and premium materials. Doors, hatches and storage compartments are fitted with sturdy fittings, whilst wall and ceiling panelling is neatly installed and can be removed for maintenance work. Even the roller-mounted drawers are designed to withstand heavy loads.
It’s particularly fascinating to take a look behind the scenes. Thanks to the ship’s unique layout, there is an unusually large amount of space available at the rear of the vessel for technical installations. This ensures that cables, power units and key components remain easily accessible.
At first glance, this may not sound particularly impressive, but on a long-haul yacht it is a significant advantage. Maintenance work and repairs are much easier to carry out when key components are not hidden away behind fixed fittings or in hard-to-reach corners.
Power is provided by a 57 PS Yanmar four-cylinder engine, which drives a three-bladed folding propeller via a saildrive. The engine is installed in an easily accessible position. In principle, an electric pod drive can also be fitted as an alternative. The power system includes, as standard from the shipyard, two lithium iron phosphate batteries, each with a capacity of 300 ampere-hours.
The rest of the standard equipment is also extensive. Among other things, the package already includes an autopilot, navigation instruments, a retractable bow thruster, heating and electric winches. Two diesel tanks, each holding 200 litres, and 300 litres of fresh water ensure ample reserves. This is in keeping with the Pure 42’s aim of being a fully equipped blue-water yacht without the need for lengthy lists of optional extras.
In the second part of our video presentation, we therefore take a closer look at precisely those areas that are difficult to capture fully in photographs: How is the interior laid out? Where are the numerous storage compartments located? How easily accessible is the technical equipment? And what solutions has Pure Yachts devised for power supply, the engine and on-board operations?

Editor Test & Technology