1998 Meta Nivelt 16.25m Cutter "Rosemary" for Sale – Aluminium Expedition Yacht, 3 Cabins, Paihia/Opua NZ

This exceptional 1998 Meta Nivelt Cutter is now officially for sale, offering a rare opportunity to acquire a true offshore-ready expedition yacht engineered for the world’s most demanding environments. Designed by the renowned Joubert–Nivelt naval architecture team and constructed by aluminium specialists Meta in France, this 16.25-metre vessel – known as "Rosemary" – is purpose-built for extreme ocean passages, high-latitude cruising and long-term expedition living. With her proven 11mm aluminium hull, extensively upgraded systems and documented polar-capable history, she stands as one of the most capable bluewater yachts currently available in the South Pacific. Lying in Paihia/Opua, New Zealand, she is presented in genuine turn-key condition for her next ambitious owner.

General Specifications
Built in 1998, Rosemary measures 16.25 metres in length with a beamy 4.65 metre width and a deep, secure 2.5 metre draft. Designed by Joubert–Nivelt and constructed by Meta – one of France’s most respected aluminium shipyards – she features an impressive 11mm aluminium plate hull, providing outstanding strength, impact resistance and long-term durability. Her fin-keel design strikes an excellent balance between performance and stability, making her equally at home on coastal passages and unforgiving ocean crossings.

The deck layout is optimised for expedition sailing, with secure movement via handholds and grab rails, practical working areas and robust stainless steel fittings. Weight distribution, hull form and cutter rig efficiency have been carefully engineered to deliver a safe, predictable and confidence-inspiring platform for serious offshore work.

Performance & Engineering
Rosemary is powered by a John Deere 4045TFM50 inboard diesel engine installed in 2016 and delivering 150 hp. With approximately 2,000 operating hours, this modern engine offers excellent fuel efficiency, reliability and relatively quiet operation – ideal for long-distance cruising where energy management and low operating costs are important. Her extraordinary 3,000-litre fuel capacity provides genuine expedition-level range, allowing transoceanic voyages or extended time in remote high-latitude regions without the need for frequent refuelling.

The yacht is capable of reaching speeds up to 11 knots, with comfortable and economical cruising just below that depending on sea conditions. A direct-drive propulsion system combined with a robust three-blade propeller ensures efficient power transfer, low vibration and straightforward maintenance. Complementing the main engine is a Fisher Panda 10 kW generator, along with wind and hydro power systems that provide diversified and sustainable onboard energy. This integrated solution delivers high levels of autonomy and underpins Rosemary’s reputation as a vessel built for endurance, efficiency and off-grid self-sufficiency.

Interior & Exterior Features
The interior layout is spacious and highly functional for offshore cruising and expedition work. Rosemary offers three double cabins and two quarter berths, comfortably accommodating crew and guests for extended voyages. Two well-designed bathrooms (heads), a warm and practical salon and a fully equipped galley all combine to support long stays at sea. The interior is insulated for high-latitude travel, helping to maintain warmth, dryness and comfort in cold climates.

On deck, Rosemary provides extensive working space and secure passageways for sail handling. The aluminium deck surfaces are rugged and low-maintenance, while numerous handholds provide safety in challenging conditions. Although not conceived as a sun-lounger style yacht, she still offers ample space for outdoor relaxation when conditions allow. Storage is generous, including dedicated capacity for tenders, expedition gear, provisions and safety equipment. A high-quality AB Lammina 3m alloy dinghy with updated pontoons (2022) and a Suzuki 20 hp outboard (2024) is included, ensuring reliable access to shore when anchored in remote locations.

Navigation & Technology
Rosemary is exceptionally well equipped for modern navigation. A state-of-the-art B&G navigation suite installed in 2022 includes advanced autopilot systems, wind instruments and integrated electronics, ensuring precise data and control. She is fitted with dual autopilots, each with spare rams and computers, providing rare redundancy and reliability during ocean passages.

Her navigation package includes GPS, chart plotters, depth sounder and wind systems, and is fully compatible with AIS, radar and offshore communication solutions. Starlink High-Performance hardware, fully integrated with PredictWind, delivers unparalleled global connectivity for weather routing, communication and remote work. The vessel is also designed to accommodate further upgrades such as enhanced radar, sonar or additional security and monitoring systems, supported by a robust electrical architecture and modern wiring.

Luxury & Comfort
While Rosemary is first and foremost an expedition yacht, she offers a high level of comfort for extended living aboard. A diesel heating system (Eberspacher) and pot heater provide reliable warmth in cold conditions, while extensive insulation helps maintain a stable interior climate. The salon and cabins are finished with durable yet welcoming materials that combine practicality with a sense of warmth and homeliness.

Thoughtful lighting, robust furnishings and efficient use of space make the interior both functional and inviting. Entertainment and communication systems, including Starlink connectivity, significantly enhance onboard quality of life during long periods away from shore infrastructure.

Usage Potential
With her aluminium hull, cutter rig and expedition-focused systems, Rosemary is ideally suited for long-distance sailing, high-latitude expeditions, global circumnavigation, family voyaging or professional charter expeditions. Her enormous fuel capacity, conservative yet efficient rig, and extensive storage allow for independent, off-grid sailing for months at a time.

Whether exploring the South Pacific, New Zealand’s remote coastlines or returning to polar and high-latitude regions where she has already proven her capabilities, Rosemary is uncompromising in performance, safety and sustainability.

Maintenance & Upgrades
Rosemary has been meticulously cared for with continuous upgrades and improvements. A comprehensive 2021 hull and systems survey is available for inspection, confirming her excellent structural and mechanical condition. The aluminium hull is in outstanding shape thanks to professional care and periodic enhancements.

The engine, generator, electronics, rigging and sail systems have been updated as required, ensuring a high level of reliability. Her North NPL Tour sails remain in excellent working condition, and key systems – including watermaker, electrical infrastructure and heating – are regularly serviced. Such a thorough maintenance and upgrade history is rare and extremely reassuring for buyers seeking a genuinely expedition-ready platform.

Registration & Legal Aspects
Flag state, registration details, VAT status and tax considerations are subject to the buyer’s jurisdiction and can be clarified during discussions. As a long-term privately owned expedition yacht with Cat 1 certification, she has a clean ownership history and no known financial encumbrances. Her certification underscores her readiness for offshore and high-latitude operations.

Sales & Purchase Process
Prospective buyers are invited to arrange an in-person inspection and, where appropriate, a sea trial in the Paihia/Opua area. A professional marine survey is recommended and can be complemented by the detailed 2021 survey that is already available. Purchase procedures follow standard maritime brokerage protocols, including deposit, escrow management, negotiation and final documentation. Delivery assistance, including professional crew support for relocation, may be available depending on the buyer’s plans.

Additional Inclusions
Included in the sale are the 3m AB Lammina tender, Suzuki 20 hp outboard, extensive spare parts, professional navigation upgrades and numerous expedition-level extras. These additions further enhance her turn-key status and materially reduce the set-up costs for her next major voyage. Financing or leasing options may be explored based on buyer location and local marine-lender offerings.

For sailors seeking a proven, aluminium-hulled expedition yacht with true high-latitude credentials, Rosemary is a standout opportunity in the South Pacific. To receive the full technical inventory, recent survey documentation or to schedule a private viewing and sea trial in Paihia/Opua, contact us today. Step aboard Rosemary and take command of a ready-to-depart global exploration platform.