How Do You Add Years to a Classic Superyacht? You Rebuild the Engines

By Nora Hart

The 49.1m CARTE BLANCHE is a standout example of Christensen craftsmanship, combining the shipyard’s proven construction capabilities with elegant styling and exceptional onboard comfort. Built in 2009 and refitted in 2023, the 499GT motor yacht is now for sale with IYC, with one particularly notable upgrade: a comprehensive engine rebuild that effectively delivers zero-hour power plants for her next owner.

CARTE BLANCHE has long been regarded as one of the finest yachts produced by the American shipyard. ‘She can be considered one of the nicest Christensen yachts ever built,’ said Mark Elliott, Sales and Charter Consultant with IYC. ‘She really checks all the boxes.’

That reputation is reinforced by the yacht’s meticulous maintenance history. The current owner has invested heavily in keeping the vessel in outstanding condition, culminating in a major overhaul of her twin 1,800hp MTU engines. ‘The engines are completely refreshed,’ Elliott explained. ‘For the next owner, that means essentially zero-hour engines. It’s a huge advantage in terms of reliability and peace of mind.’

Accommodation is arranged for up to 15 guests across six double staterooms, an uncommon configuration in this size range. The full-beam master suite sits forward on the main deck and includes a private study along with his-and-hers bathrooms. Below deck, guests are accommodated in a spacious full-beam VIP suite and four additional cabins, each with en-suite facilities.

The interior, by Jacqueline Mann Design, blends rich materials with refined furnishings, while large windows fill the living spaces with natural light. An elevator connects all four decks, ensuring easy movement throughout the yacht and making CARTE BLANCHE fully accessible.

Outdoor spaces are equally appealing, with a skybridge Jacuzzi, skylounge with sunken bar, touch-and-go helipad and a generous swim platform that doubles as a beach club. Designed for long-range cruising, the yacht offers a 4,000-nautical-mile range, cruises at 13 knots and reaches a top speed of 17 knots, while Quantum zero-speed stabilisers ensure comfort both underway and at anchor. ‘The comfort level really stands out,’ Elliott noted. 

With renewed machinery, a highly desirable guest layout and transatlantic capability, CARTE BLANCHE presents an excellent turnkey opportunity in the 50-metre market.

"For the next owner, that means essentially zero-hour engines. It’s a huge advantage in terms of reliability and peace of mind."

Mark Elliott, Sales and Charter Consultant, IYC

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"For the next owner, that means essentially zero-hour engines. It’s a huge advantage in terms of reliability and peace of mind."

Mark Elliott, Sales and Charter Consultant, IYC
By Nora Hart
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