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43 of the best bluewater sailboat designs of all time

• January 5, 2022

How do you choose the right yacht for you? We highlight the very best bluewater sailboat designs for every type of cruising

Which yacht is the best for bluewater boating? This question generates even more debate among sailors than questions about what’s the coolest yacht , or the best for racing. Whereas racing designs are measured against each other, cruising sailors get very limited opportunities to experience different yachts in real oceangoing conditions, so what is the best bluewater sailboat?

Here, we bring you our top choices from decades of designs and launches. Over the years, the Yachting World team has sailed these boats, tested them or judged them for European Yacht of the Year awards, and we have sifted through the many to curate a selection that we believe should be on your wishlist.

Making the right choice may come down to how you foresee your yacht being used after it has crossed an ocean or completed a passage: will you be living at anchor or cruising along the coast? If so, your guiding requirements will be space, cabin size, ease of launching a tender and anchoring closer to shore, and whether it can comfortably accommodate non-expert-sailor guests.

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All of these considerations have generated the inexorable rise of the bluewater catamaran – monohulls can’t easily compete on these points. We have a full separate feature on the best bluewater multihulls of all time and here we mostly focus on monohulls. The only exceptions to that rule are two multihulls which made it into our best bluewater sailboats of 2022 list.

As so much of making the right choice is selecting the right boat for the venture in mind, we have separated out our edit into categories: best for comfort; for families; for performance; and for expedition or high latitudes sailing .

Best bluewater sailboats of 2022

The new flagship Allures 51.9, for example, is a no-nonsense adventure cruising design built and finished to a high standard. It retains Allures’ niche of using aluminium hulls with glassfibre decks and superstructures, which, the yard maintains, gives the optimum combination of least maintenance and less weight higher up. Priorities for this design were a full beam aft cabin and a spacious, long cockpit. Both are excellent, with the latter, at 6m long, offering formidable social, sailing and aft deck zones.

It likes some breeze to come to life on the wheel, but I appreciate that it’s designed to take up to five tonnes payload. And I like the ease with which you can change gears using the furling headsails and the positioning of the powerful Andersen winches inboard. The arch is standard and comes with a textile sprayhood or hard bimini.

Below decks you’ll find abundant headroom and natural light, a deep U-shape galley and cavernous stowage. For those who like the layout of the Amel 50 but would prefer aluminium or shoal draught, look no further.

Allures 51.9 price: €766,000

The Ovni 370 is another cunning new aluminum centreboard offering, a true deck saloon cruiser for two. The designers say the biggest challenge was to create a Category A ocean going yacht at this size with a lifting keel, hence the hull had to be very stable.

Enjoyable to helm, it has a practical, deep cockpit behind a large sprayhood, which can link to the bimini on the arch. Many of its most appealing features lie in the bright, light, contemporary, clever, voluminous interior, which has good stowage and tankage allocation. There’s also a practical navstation, a large workroom and a vast separate shower. I particularly like the convertible saloom, which can double as a large secure daybed or pilot berth.

Potentially the least expensive Category A lift keel boat available, the Ovni will get you dreaming of remote places again.

Ovni 370 price: €282,080

There’s no shortage of spirit in the Windelo 50. We gave this a sustainability award after it’s founders spent two years researching environmentally-friendly composite materials, developing an eco-composite of basalt fibre and recycled PET foam so it could build boats that halve the environmental impact of standard glassfibre yachts.

The Windelo 50 is an intriguing package – from the styling, modular interior and novel layout to the solar field on the roof and the standard electric propulsion, it is completely fresh.

Windelo 50 price: €795,000

Best bluewater sailboat of 2022 – Outremer 55

I would argue that this is the most successful new production yacht on the market. Well over 50 have already sold (an equipped model typically costs €1.6m) – and I can understand why. After all, were money no object, I had this design earmarked as the new yacht I would most likely choose for a world trip.

Indeed 55 number one Sanya, was fully equipped for a family’s world cruise, and left during our stay for the Grand Large Odyssey tour. Whereas we sailed Magic Kili, which was tricked up with performance options, including foam-cored deckheads and supports, carbon crossbeam and bulkheads, and synthetic rigging.

At rest, these are enticing space ships. Taking one out to sea is another matter though. These are speed machines with the size, scale and loads to be rightly weary of. Last month Nikki Henderson wrote a feature for us about how to manage a new breed of performance cruising cats just like this and how she coaches new owners. I could not think of wiser money spent for those who do not have ample multihull sailing experience.

Under sail, the most fun was obviously reserved for the reaching leg under asymmetric, where we clocked between 11-16 knots in 15-16 knots wind. But it was the stability and of those sustained low teen speeds which really hit home  – passagemaking where you really cover miles.

Key features include the swing helms, which give you views from outboard, over the coachroof or from a protected position in the cockpit through the coachroof windows, and the vast island in the galley, which is key to an open plan main living area. It helps provide cavernous stowage and acts as the heart of the entertaining space as it would in a modern home. As Danish judge Morten Brandt-Rasmussen comments: “Apart from being the TGV of ocean passages the boat offers the most spacious, open and best integration of the cockpit and salon areas in the market.”

Outremer has done a top job in packing in the creature comforts, stowage space and payload capacity, while keeping it light enough to eat miles. Although a lot to absorb and handle, the 55 offers a formidable blend of speed and luxury cruising.

Outremer 55 price: €1.35m

Best bluewater sailboats for comfort

This is the successor to the legendary Super Maramu, a ketch design that for several decades defined easy downwind handling and fostered a cult following for the French yard. Nearly a decade old, the Amel 55 is the bridge between those world-girdling stalwarts and Amel’s more recent and totally re-imagined sloop designs, the Amel 50 and 60.

The 55 boasts all the serious features Amel aficionados loved and valued: a skeg-hung rudder, solidly built hull, watertight bulkheads, solid guardrails and rampart bulwarks. And, most noticeable, the solid doghouse in which the helmsman sits in perfect shelter at the wheel.

This is a design to live on comfortably for long periods and the list of standard features just goes on and on: passarelle; proper sea berths with lee cloths; electric furling main and genoa; and a multitude of practical items that go right down to a dishwasher and crockery.

There’s no getting around the fact these designs do look rather dated now, and through the development of easier sail handling systems the ketch rig has fallen out of fashion, but the Amel is nothing short of a phenomenon, and if you’ve never even peeked on board one, you really have missed a treat.

Photo: Sander van der Borch

Contest 50CS

A centre cockpit cruiser with true longevity, the Contest 50CS was launched by Conyplex back in 2003 and is still being built by the family-owned Dutch company, now in updated and restyled form.

With a fully balanced rudder, large wheel and modern underwater sections, the Contest 50CS is a surprisingly good performer for a boat that has a dry weight of 17.5 tonnes. Many were fitted with in-mast furling, which clearly curtails that performance, but even without, this boat is set up for a small crew.

Electric winches and mainsheet traveller are all easy to reach from the helm. On our test of the Contest 50CS, we saw for ourselves how two people can gybe downwind under spinnaker without undue drama. Upwind, a 105% genoa is so easy to tack it flatters even the weediest crewmember.

Down below, the finish level of the joinery work is up there among the best and the interior is full of clever touches, again updated and modernised since the early models. Never the cheapest bluewater sailing yacht around, the Contest 50CS has remained in demand as a brokerage buy. She is a reassuringly sure-footed, easily handled, very well built yacht that for all those reasons has stood the test of time.

This is a yacht that would be well capable of helping you extend your cruising grounds, almost without realising it.

Read more about the Contest 50CS and the new Contest 49CS

Photo: Rick Tomlinson

Hallberg-Rassy 48 Mk II

For many, the Swedish Hallberg-Rassy yard makes the quintessential bluewater cruiser for couples. With their distinctive blue cove line, these designs are famous for their seakindly behaviour, solid-as-a-rock build and beautifully finished, traditional interiors.

To some eyes, Hallberg-Rassys aren’t quite cool enough, but it’s been company owner Magnus Rassy’s confidence in the formula and belief in incremental ‘step-by-step’ evolution that has been such an exceptional guarantor of reliable quality, reputation and resale value.

The centre cockpit Hallberg-Rassy 48 epitomises the concept of comfort at sea and, like all the Frers-designed Hallberg-Rassys since the 1990s, is surprisingly fleet upwind as well as steady downwind. The 48 is perfectly able to be handled by a couple (as we found a few years back in the Pacific), and could with no great effort crack out 200-mile days.

The Hallberg-Rassy 48 was launched nearly a decade ago, but the Mk II from 2014 is our pick, updated with a more modern profile, larger windows and hull portlights that flood the saloon and aft cabin with light. With a large chart table, secure linear galley, heaps of stowage and space for bluewater extras such as machinery and gear, this yacht pretty much ticks all the boxes.

Discovery 55

First launched in 2000, the Discovery 55 has stood the test of time. Designed by Ron Holland, it hit a sweet spot in size that appealed to couples and families with world girdling plans.

Elegantly styled and well balanced, the 55 is also a practical design, with a deep and secure cockpit, comfortable seating, a self-tacking jib, dedicated stowage for the liferaft , a decent sugar scoop transom that’s useful for swimming or dinghy access, and very comfortable accommodation below. In short, it is a design that has been well thought out by those who’ve been there, got the bruises, stubbed their toes and vowed to change things in the future if they ever got the chance.

Throughout the accommodation there are plenty of examples of good detailing, from the proliferation of handholds and grabrails, to deep sinks in the galley offering immediate stowage when under way and the stand up/sit down showers. Stowage is good, too, with plenty of sensibly sized lockers in easily accessible positions.

The Discovery 55 has practical ideas and nifty details aplenty. She’s not, and never was, a breakthrough in modern luxury cruising but she is pretty, comfortable to sail and live on, and well mannered.

Photo: Latitudes Picture Library

You can’t get much more Cornish than a Rustler. The hulls of this Stephen Jones design are hand-moulded and fitted out in Falmouth – and few are more ruggedly built than this traditional, up-for-anything offshore cruiser.

She boasts an encapsulated lead keel, eliminating keel bolts and creating a sump for generous fuel and water tankage, while a chunky skeg protects the rudder. She is designed for good directional stability and load carrying ability. These are all features that lend this yacht confidence as it shoulders aside the rough stuff.

Most of those built have had a cutter rig, a flexible arrangement that makes sense for long passages in all sea and weather conditions. Down below, the galley and saloon berths are comfortable and sensible for living in port and at sea, with joinery that Rustler’s builders are rightly proud of.

As modern yachts have got wider, higher and fatter, the Rustler 42 is an exception. This is an exceptionally well-mannered seagoing yacht in the traditional vein, with elegant lines and pleasing overhangs, yet also surprisingly powerful. And although now over 20 years old, timeless looks and qualities mean this design makes her look ever more like a perennial, a modern classic.

The definitive crossover size, the point at which a yacht can be handled by a couple but is just large enough to have a professional skipper and be chartered, sits at around the 60ft mark. At 58ft 8in, the Oyster 575 fitted perfectly into this growing market when launched in 2010. It went on to be one of the most popular models from the yard, and is only now being superseded by the newer Rob Humphreys-designed Oyster 565 (just launched this spring).

Built in various configurations with either a deep keel, shoal draught keel or centreboard with twin rudders, owners could trade off better performance against easy access to shallower coves and anchorages. The deep-bodied hull, also by Rob Humphreys, is known for its easy motion at sea.

Some of the Oyster 575’s best features include its hallmark coachroof windows style and centre cockpit – almost everyone will know at first glance this is an Oyster – and superb interior finish. If she has a flaw, it is arguably the high cockpit, but the flip side is the galley headroom and passageway berth to the large aft stateroom.

This design also has a host of practical features for long-distance cruising, such as high guardrails, dedicated liferaft stowage, a vast lazarette for swallowing sails, tender, fenders etc, and a penthouse engine room.

Privilege Serie 5

A true luxury catamaran which, fully fitted out, will top €1m, this deserves to be seen alongside the likes of the Oyster 575, Gunfleet 58 and Hallberg-Rassy 55. It boasts a large cockpit and living area, and a light and spacious saloon with an emphasis on indoor-outdoor living, masses of refrigeration and a big galley.

Standout features are finish quality and solid build in a yacht designed to take a high payload, a secure walkaround deck and all-round views from the helm station. The new Privilege 510 that will replace this launches in February 2020.

Gunfleet 43

It was with this Tony Castro design that Richard Matthews, founder of Oyster Yachts, launched a brand new rival brand in 2012, the smallest of a range stretching to the flagship Gunfleet 74. The combination of short overhangs and centre cockpit at this size do make the Gunfleet 43 look modern if a little boxy, but time and subsequent design trends have been kind to her lines, and the build quality is excellent. The saloon, galley and aft cabin space is exceptional on a yacht of this size.

Photo: David Harding

Conceived as a belt-and-braces cruiser, the Kraken 50 launched last year. Its unique points lie underwater in the guise of a full skeg-hung rudder and so-called ‘Zero Keel’, an encapsulated long keel with lead ballast.

Kraken Yachts is the brainchild of British businessman and highly experienced cruiser Dick Beaumont, who is adamant that safety should be foremost in cruising yacht design and build. “There is no such thing as ‘one yacht for all purposes’… You cannot have the best of all worlds, whatever the salesman tells you,” he says.

Read our full review of the Kraken 50 .

Wauquiez Centurion 57

Few yachts can claim to be both an exciting Med-style design and a serious and practical northern European offshore cruiser, but the Wauquiez Centurion 57 tries to blend both. She slightly misses if you judge solely by either criterion, but is pretty and practical enough to suit her purpose.

A very pleasant, well-considered yacht, she is impressively built and finished with a warm and comfortable interior. More versatile than radical, she could be used for sailing across the Atlantic in comfort and raced with equal enjoyment at Antigua Sailing Week .

A modern classic if ever there was one. A medium to heavy displacement yacht, stiff and easily capable of standing up to her canvas. Pretty, traditional lines and layout below.

Photo: Voyage of Swell

Well-proven US legacy design dating back to the mid-1960s that once conquered the Transpac Race . Still admired as pretty, with slight spoon bow and overhanging transom.

Capable medium displacement cruiser, ideal size and good accommodation for couples or family cruising, and much less costly than similar luxury brands.

Photo: Peter Szamer

Swedish-built aft cockpit cruiser, smaller than many here, but a well-built and finished, super-durable pocket ocean cruiser.

Tartan 3700

Designed as a performance cruiser there are nimbler alternatives now, but this is still an extremely pretty yacht.

Broker ’ s choice

Discovery 55 Brizo

This yacht has already circumnavigated the globe and is ‘prepared for her next adventure,’ says broker Berthon. Price: £535,000 + VAT

Oyster 575 Ayesha

‘Stunning, and perfectly equipped for bluewater cruising,’ says broker Ancasta International. Price: £845,000 (tax not paid)

Oyster 575 Pearls of Nautilus

Nearly new and with a high spec, this Oyster Brokerage yacht features American white oak joinery and white leather upholstery and has a shoal draught keel. Price: $1.49m

Best bluewater yachts for performance

The Frers-designed Swan 54 may not be the newest hull shape but heralded Swan’s latest generation of displacement bluewater cruisers when launched four years ago. With raked stem, deep V hull form, lower freeboard and slight curve to the topsides she has a more timeless aesthetic than many modern slab-sided high volume yachts, and with that a seakindly motion in waves. If you plan to cover many miles to weather, this is probably the yacht you want to be on.

Photo: Carlo Borlenghi

Besides Swan’s superlative build quality, the 54 brings many true bluewater features, including a dedicated sail locker. There’s also a cockpit locker that functions as a utility cabin, with potential to hold your generator and washing machine, or be a workshop space.

The sloping transom opens out to reveal a 2.5m bathing platform, and although the cabins are not huge there is copious stowage space. Down below the top-notch oak joinery is well thought through with deep fiddles, and there is a substantial nav station. But the Swan 54 wins for handling above all, with well laid-out sail controls that can be easily managed between a couple, while offering real sailing enjoyment to the helmsman.

Photo: Graham Snook

The Performance Cruiser winner at the 2019 European Yacht of the Year awards, the Arcona 435 is all about the sailing experience. She has genuine potential as a cruiser-racer, but her strengths are as an enjoyable cruiser rather than a full-blown liveaboard bluewater boat.

Build quality is excellent, there is the option of a carbon hull and deck, and elegant lines and a plumb bow give the Arcona 435 good looks as well as excellent performance in light airs. Besides slick sail handling systems, there are well thought-out features for cruising, such as ample built-in rope bins and an optional semi-closed stern with stowage and swim platform.

Outremer 51

If you want the space and stability of a cat but still prioritise sailing performance, Outremer has built a reputation on building catamarans with true bluewater characteristics that have cruised the planet for the past 30 years.

Lighter and slimmer-hulled than most cruising cats, the Outremer 51 is all about sailing at faster speeds, more easily. The lower volume hulls and higher bridgedeck make for a better motion in waves, while owners report that being able to maintain a decent pace even under reduced canvas makes for stress-free passages. Deep daggerboards also give good upwind performance.

With bucket seats and tiller steering options, the Outremer 51 rewards sailors who want to spend time steering, while they’re famously well set up for handling with one person on deck. The compromise comes with the interior space – even with a relatively minimalist style, there is less cabin space and stowage volume than on the bulkier cats, but the Outremer 51 still packs in plenty of practical features.

The Xc45 was the first cruising yacht X-Yachts ever built, and designed to give the same X-Yachts sailing experience for sailors who’d spent years racing 30/40-footer X- and IMX designs, but in a cruising package.

Launched over 10 years ago, the Xc45 has been revisited a few times to increase the stowage and modernise some of the styling, but the key features remain the same, including substantial tanks set low for a low centre of gravity, and X-Yachts’ trademark steel keel grid structure. She has fairly traditional styling and layout, matched with solid build quality.

A soft bilge and V-shaped hull gives a kindly motion in waves, and the cockpit is secure, if narrow by modern standards.

A three or four cabin catamaran that’s fleet of foot with high bridgedeck clearance for comfortable motion at sea. With tall daggerboards and carbon construction in some high load areas, Catana cats are light and quick to accelerate.

Sweden Yachts 45

An established bluewater design that also features in plenty of offshore races. Some examples are specced with carbon rig and retractable bowsprits. All have a self-tacking jib for ease. Expect sweeping areas of teak above decks and a traditionally wooded interior with hanging wet locker.

A vintage performer, first launched in 1981, the 51 was the first Frers-designed Swan and marked a new era of iconic cruiser-racers. Some 36 of the Swan 51 were built, many still actively racing and cruising nearly 40 years on. Classic lines and a split cockpit make this a boat for helming, not sunbathing.

Photo: Julien Girardot / EYOTY

The JPK 45 comes from a French racing stable, combining race-winning design heritage with cruising amenities. What you see is what you get – there are no superfluous headliners or floorboards, but there are plenty of ocean sailing details, like inboard winches for safe trimming. The JPK 45 also has a brilliantly designed cockpit with an optional doghouse creating all-weather shelter, twin wheels and superb clutch and rope bin arrangement.

Photo: Andreas Lindlahr

For sailors who don’t mind exchanging a few creature comforts for downwind planing performance, the Pogo 50 offers double-digit surfing speeds for exhilarating tradewind sailing. There’s an open transom, tiller steering and no backstay or runners. The Pogo 50 also has a swing keel, to nose into shallow anchorages.

Seawind 1600

Seawinds are relatively unknown in Europe, but these bluewater cats are very popular in Australia. As would be expected from a Reichel-Pugh design, this 52-footer combines striking good looks and high performance, with fine entry bows and comparatively low freeboard. Rudders are foam cored lifting designs in cassettes, which offer straightforward access in case of repairs, while daggerboards are housed under the deck.

Best bluewater sailboats for families

It’s unsurprising that, for many families, it’s a catamaran that meets their requirements best of increased space – both living space and separate cabins for privacy-seeking teenagers, additional crew or visiting family – as well as stable and predictable handling.

Photo: Nicholas Claris

Undoubtedly one of the biggest success stories has been the Lagoon 450, which, together with boats like the Fountaine Pajot 44, helped drive up the popularity of catamaran cruising by making it affordable and accessible. They have sold in huge numbers – over 1,000 Lagoon 450s have been built since its launch in 2010.

The VPLP-designed 450 was originally launched with a flybridge with a near central helming position and upper level lounging areas (450F). The later ‘sport top’ option (450S) offered a starboard helm station and lower boom (and hence lower centre of gravity for reduced pitching). The 450S also gained a hull chine to create additional volume above the waterline. The Lagoon features forward lounging and aft cockpit areas for additional outdoor living space.

Besides being a big hit among charter operators, Lagoons have proven themselves over thousands of bluewater miles – there were seven Lagoon 450s in last year’s ARC alone. In what remains a competitive sector of the market, Lagoon has recently launched a new 46, with a larger self-tacking jib and mast moved aft, and more lounging areas.

Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

Fountaine Pajot Helia 44

The FP Helia 44 is lighter, lower volume, and has a lower freeboard than the Lagoon, weighing in at 10.8 tonnes unloaded (compared to 15 for the 450). The helm station is on a mezzanine level two steps up from the bridgedeck, with a bench seat behind. A later ‘Evolution’ version was designed for liveaboard cruisers, featuring beefed up dinghy davits and an improved saloon space.

Available in three or four cabin layouts, the Helia 44 was also popular with charter owners as well as families. The new 45 promises additional volume, and an optional hydraulically lowered ‘beach club’ swim platform.

Photo: Arnaud De Buyzer / graphikup.com

The French RM 1370 might be less well known than the big brand names, but offers something a little bit different for anyone who wants a relatively voluminous cruising yacht. Designed by Marc Lombard, and beautifully built from plywood/epoxy, the RM is stiff and responsive, and sails superbly.

The RM yachts have a more individual look – in part down to the painted finish, which encourages many owners to personalise their yachts, but also thanks to their distinctive lines with reverse sheer and dreadnought bow. The cockpit is well laid out with the primary winches inboard for a secure trimming position. The interior is light, airy and modern, although the open transom won’t appeal to everyone.

For those wanting a monohull, the Hanse 575 hits a similar sweet spot to the popular multis, maximising accommodation for a realistic price, yet with responsive performance.

The Hanse offers a vast amount of living space thanks to the ‘loft design’ concept of having all the living areas on a single level, which gives a real feeling of spaciousness with no raised saloon or steps to accommodation. The trade-off for such lofty head height is a substantial freeboard – it towers above the pontoon, while, below, a stepladder is provided to reach some hatches.

Galley options include drawer fridge-freezers, microwave and coffee machine, and the full size nav station can double up as an office or study space.

But while the Hanse 575 is a seriously large boat, its popularity is also down to the fact that it is genuinely able to be handled by a couple. It was innovative in its deck layout: with a self-tacking jib and mainsheet winches immediately to hand next to the helm, one person could both steer and trim.

Direct steering gives a feeling of control and some tangible sailing fun, while the waterline length makes for rapid passage times. In 2016 the German yard launched the newer Hanse 588 model, having already sold 175 of the 575s in just four years.

Photo: Bertel Kolthof

Jeanneau 54

Jeanneau leads the way among production builders for versatile all-rounder yachts that balance sail performance and handling, ergonomics, liveaboard functionality and good looks. The Jeanneau 54 , part of the range designed by Philippe Briand with interior by Andrew Winch, melds the best of the larger and smaller models and is available in a vast array of layout options from two cabins/two heads right up to five cabins and three heads.

We’ve tested the Jeanneau 54 in a gale and very light winds, and it acquitted itself handsomely in both extremes. The primary and mainsheet winches are to hand next to the wheel, and the cockpit is spacious, protected and child-friendly. An electric folding swim and sun deck makes for quick fun in the water.

Nautitech Open 46

This was the first Nautitech catamaran to be built under the ownership of Bavaria, designed with an open-plan bridgedeck and cockpit for free-flowing living space. But with good pace for eating up bluewater miles, and aft twin helms rather than a flybridge, the Nautitech Open 46 also appeals to monohull sailors who prefer a more direct sailing experience.

Made by Robertson and Caine, who produce catamarans under a dual identity as both Leopard and the Sunsail/Moorings charter cats, the Leopard 45 is set to be another big seller. Reflecting its charter DNA, the Leopard 45 is voluminous, with stepped hulls for reduced waterline, and a separate forward cockpit.

Built in South Africa, they are robustly tested off the Cape and constructed ruggedly enough to handle heavy weather sailing as well as the demands of chartering.

Photo: Olivier Blanchet

If space is king then three hulls might be even better than two. The Neel 51 is rare as a cruising trimaran with enough space for proper liveaboard sailing. The galley and saloon are in the large central hull, together with an owner’s cabin on one level for a unique sensation of living above the water. Guest or family cabins lie in the outer hulls for privacy and there is a cavernous full height engine room under the cabin sole.

Performance is notably higher than an equivalent cruising cat, particularly in light winds, with a single rudder giving a truly direct feel in the helm, although manoeuvring a 50ft trimaran may daunt many sailors.

Beneteau Oceanis 46.1

A brilliant new model from Beneteau, this Finot Conq design has a modern stepped hull, which offers exhilarating and confidence-inspiring handling in big breezes, and slippery performance in lighter winds.

The Beneteau Oceanis 46.1 was the standout performer at this year’s European Yacht of the Year awards, and, in replacing the popular Oceanis 45, looks set to be another bestseller. Interior space is well used with a double island berth in the forepeak. An additional inboard unit creates a secure galley area, but tank capacity is moderate for long periods aboard.

Beneteau Oceanis 473

A popular model that offers beam and height in a functional layout, although, as with many boats of this age (she was launched in 2002), the mainsheet is not within reach of the helmsman.

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 49

The Philippe Briand-designed Sun Odyssey range has a solid reputation as family production cruisers. Like the 473, the Sun Odyssey 49 was popular for charter so there are plenty of four-cabin models on the market.

Nautitech 441

The hull design dates back to 1995, but was relaunched in 2012. Though the saloon interior has dated, the 441 has solid practical features, such as a rainwater run-off collection gutter around the coachroof.

Atlantic 42

Chris White-designed cats feature a pilothouse and forward waist-high working cockpit with helm position, as well as an inside wheel at the nav station. The Atlantic 42 offers limited accommodation by modern cat standards but a very different sailing experience.

Best bluewater sailing yachts for expeditions

Bestevaer 56.

All of the yachts in our ‘expedition’ category are aluminium-hulled designs suitable for high latitude sailing, and all are exceptional yachts. But the Bestevaer 56 is a spectacular amount of boat to take on a true adventure. Each Bestevaer is a near-custom build with plenty of bespoke options for owners to customise the layout and where they fall on the scale of rugged off-grid adventurer to 4×4-style luxury fit out.

The Bestevaer range began when renowned naval architect Gerard Dijkstra chose to design his own personal yacht for liveaboard adventure cruising, a 53-footer. The concept drew plenty of interest from bluewater sailors wanting to make longer expeditions and Bestevaers are now available in a range of sizes, with the 56-footer proving a popular mid-range length.

The well-known Bestevaer 56 Tranquilo  (pictured above) has a deep, secure cockpit, voluminous tanks (700lt water and over 1,100lt fuel) and a lifting keel plus water ballast, with classically styled teak clad decks and pilot house. Other owners have opted for functional bare aluminium hull and deck, some choose a doghouse and others a pilothouse.

Photo: Jean-Marie Liot

The Boreal 52 also offers Land Rover-esque practicality, with utilitarian bare aluminium hulls and a distinctive double-level doghouse/coachroof arrangement for added protection in all weathers. The cockpit is clean and uncluttered, thanks to the mainsheet position on top of the doghouse, although for visibility in close manoeuvring the helmsman will want to step up onto the aft deck.

Twin daggerboards, a lifting centreboard and long skeg on which she can settle make this a true go-anywhere expedition yacht. The metres of chain required for adventurous anchoring is stowed in a special locker by the mast to keep the weight central. Down below has been thought through with equally practical touches, including plenty of bracing points and lighting that switches on to red light first to protect your night vision.

Photo: Morris Adant / Garcia Yachts

Garcia Exploration 45

The Garcia Exploration 45 comes with real experience behind her – she was created in association with Jimmy Cornell, based on his many hundreds of thousands of miles of bluewater cruising, to go anywhere from high latitudes to the tropics.

Arguably less of a looker than the Bestevaer, the Garcia Exploration 45 features a rounded aluminium hull, centreboard with deep skeg and twin daggerboards. The considerable anchor chain weight has again been brought aft, this time via a special conduit to a watertight locker in front of the centreboard.

This is a yacht designed to be lived on for extended periods with ample storage, and panoramic portlights to give a near 360° view of whichever extraordinary landscape you are exploring. Safety features include a watertight companionway door to keep extreme weather out and through-hull fittings placed above the waterline. When former Vendée Globe skipper Pete Goss went cruising , this was the boat he chose to do it in.

Photo: svnaima.com

A truly well-proven expedition design, some 1,500 Ovnis have been built and many sailed to some of the most far-flung corners of the world. (Jimmy Cornell sailed his Aventura some 30,000 miles, including two Drake Passage crossings, one in 50 knots of wind).

Futuna Exploration 54

Another aluminium design with a swinging centreboard and a solid enclosed pilothouse with protected cockpit area. There’s a chunky bowsprit and substantial transom arch to house all manner of electronics and power generation.

Previous boats have been spec’d for North West Passage crossings with additional heating and engine power, although there’s a carbon rig option for those that want a touch of the black stuff. The tanks are capacious, with 1,000lt capability for both fresh water and fuel.

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Top 10 charter yachts with classic interior

• Inspiration

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Written by Rachael Steele

The term ‘classic’ has come to mean anything antique or ageless, and when discussing luxury charter yacht interiors it can certainly span the centuries to satisfy a variety of preferences. Dive into the world of luxury, experience the best of cruising around the world and refer to this list of top 10 incredible classic interiors aboard both motor and sailing charter yachts to consider for your next holiday.

Aboard Croce Del Sud

CROCE DEL SUD

42m/137ft sailing yacht CROCE DEL SUD was built in Istria in 1933 and underwent a three-year refit from 2008 to 2011 to maintain this elegant three-masted schooner at her finest. This graceful vessel looks impressive under sail and while at anchor guests can bask in the sunshine on the traditional seating and sun beds. The gorgeous interiors surround guests in traditional wooden panelling and overstuffed leather in cerise or plush white, depending if the upper or lower lounge. The five guest cabins to sleep up to 10 guests are painted white with accents in gold, and air conditioning throughout is one of the few modern additions for convenience and comfort.

Classic sail yacht CROCE DEL SUD – Exterior

10 Guests | 5 Crew | From EUR€ 75,000 /wk – ENQUIRE

SILVER SPRAY

33.5m/110ft Dutch schooner SILVER SPRAY is even older – launched in 1919, she is now a century old. The accommodation sleeps up to eight guests over four en-suite cabins. The indoor and outdoor dining areas offer plenty of options for intimate family meals with friends and family, and the spacious foredeck has room for sunbeds as well as yoga mats for exercise in the early morning sunshine.

Classic SY SILVER SPRAY – Exterior

8 Guests | 4 Crew | From EUR€ 28,000 /wk – ENQUIRE

Luxury yacht CLAIRE from Trinity Yachts has contemporary classic interiors with elements of art deco in her fixtures and fittings, such as the spiral staircase and frames around the artwork and mirrors. By contrast, her onboard amenities are entirely modern, among them a cinema, alfresco wet bars with widescreen TVs, a sundeck Jacuzzi and a large selection of water toys. Up to 11 are accommodated in her five en-suite guest cabins, where guests can unwind and end the day in complete opulence.

Motor yacht Claire – Exterior

11 Guests | 8 Crew | From EUR€ 139,500 /wk – ENQUIRE

Bridging the gap between traditional and modern is 50m/165ft superyacht MALAHNE. Built in 1937, she has hosted parties for the rich and famous of her era and was put to use during World War II. Guy Oliver of Oliver Laws Ltd painstakingly recreated her interiors using authentic furniture as part of a 30-month refit at the Pendennis shipyard in 2015, resulting in grand formal dining areas separate to the lounge and library, and accommodation for up to 10 guests in six beautifully appointed en-suite cabins. The only modern touch is the array of water toys available: Laser sailing dinghies, windsurfers and paddleboards are just a part of the exhaustive collection for fun-filled afternoons along the Croatian coast or the volcanic coast of Sicily and the Aeolian Islands .

Malahne – Exterior

10 Guests | 11 Crew | From EUR€ 145,000 /wk – ENQUIRE

Luxury yacht ST DAVID has travelled the world, visiting the iconic paradise of the Maldives and Seychelles , the rich cultural hub of the Mediterranean and the vibrant, ever-lively Caribbean & Bahamas . The globe at the foot of her eye-catching spiral staircase is an affirmation of her desire to travel the world with 12 guests accommodated in her six stately cabins. Warm wooden panelling and neo-classical styling surround guests as the enjoy amenities such as her large wet bar with a display of cut glass goblets. As desirable as the interiors are, the exteriors might be even more enticing, with ample space for socialising and basking in the sunshine on the numerous sunbeds or in the Jacuzzi.

ST DAVID – Exterior

12 Guests | 14 Crew | From EUR€ 325,000 /wk – ENQUIRE

36.9m/121ft Benetti superyacht NAMASTE was launched in 2013 and has a composite hull and superstructure for a shallow draft of 2.1m/7ft for navigating the shallow waters of the Caribbean & Bahamas yacht charter grounds. American Cherry wood paneling and Italian marble furnish the modern classic interiors. The volume on board is comparable with a larger luxury yacht, with a full-beam main deck Master suite among the five en-suite cabins for 10 guests. She is great for couples as well as families and conceals a large selection of water toys while proudly displaying large sunbeds, a wet bar and a Jacuzzi beneath a retractable shade.

Namaste – exterior

12 Guests | 14 Crew

Built at prestigious shipyard Lurssen to the design by Espen Oeino , the 106m/349.5ft mega yacht AMADEA is not just another vessel that features classic interior design. She is a floating masterpiece with head-spinning design elements throughout. Some of the opulent elements in her decor include rich woods, crystals, silk, and mosaic. Among her notable features are the winter garden, massive swimming pool, wellness centre with spa and a beach club with a bar. The atmosphere of real opulence onboard is present at all times, while the crew of 36 looks after everything and charter guest relax and entertain in style.

AMADEA – Exterior (© Imperial Yachts)

12 Guests | 14 Crew | ENQUIRE for pricing

Lurssen luxury yacht SOLANDGE measures 85.1m/279.2ft and spans five decks, all of it dedicated to leisure. The beautiful interiors are a combination of honey onyx stone, back-lit amethyst wall panels, rose quartz in the chandeliers and gold leaf on the ceiling, and a Bechstein piano awaits in the main salon. The Tree of Life lighted sculpture in the foyer spans all interior decks and it the centerpiece for the entire yacht. Eight stately en-suite cabins sleep up to 12 guests, who will wake up to a beach club with an on board spa zone replete with sauna, hammam, chromotherapy and spa massage room, a swimming pool, Jacuzzi and enough indoor and outdoor seating and dining areas for large quayside events.

Yacht Solandge – Exterior

12 Guests | 29 Crew | From EUR€ 1,000,000 /wk – ENQUIRE

ILLUSION V (58m/190.3ft) from Italian shipyard Benetti have timeless interiors from the shipyard’s in-house team: black and white create stark contrasts in glass and matte textures. She has a distinctive flower motif found throughout, from the welcoming beach club up to the sky lounge bar, with a karaoke system and DJ decks available for the ultimate party on board. Accommodation onboard is provided across six lavish cabins, including a master suite, a VIP cabin, 3 double guest cabins and one twin.

Illusion V – exterior

12 Guests | 13 Crew |

Built in 2014, motor yacht LIONESS V measure 63.5m/208.3ft. Her interior was created by Argent Design with soft creamy tones contrasting against luxurious dark woods. LIONESS V features a dream-like white staircase ascending among dark wooden panelling, an atmospheric cinema, a steam room and a gym, plus luscious outdoor lounging and dining areas serviced by a wet bar and shaded by large sun umbrellas.

Lioness V – exterior

12 Guests | 13 Crew | From EUR€ 425,000/wk –  ENQUIRE

Please contact CharterWorld - the luxury yacht charter specialist - for more on superyacht news item "Top 10 charter yachts with classic interior".

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Retro revival: The best modern classic yachts

Livingstone.

Many people love classic design, but old yachts, cars and aircraft often come with inevitable issues in terms of performance and comfort, not to mention a never-ending maintenance list. The modern classic offers an alternative to owning a classic superyacht , drawing inspiration from the magnificent lines of yachts from the first half of the 20th century, and yet concealing modernity beneath the waterline and within. We round up some of the best modern classic yachts in the world...

It is not just the name of the 24 metre Livingstone that recalls a bygone era - this steel-hulled cruiser from Hartman Yachts oozes 1930s charm with a canoe stern and a decorative aluminium funnel. However, these classic flourishes belie her high-tech equipment, such as an extendable passarelle that can emerge from the beautifully curved transom in a matter of seconds.

The massive modern classic Nero stretches more than 90 metres in length. Built in China by Corsair Yachts , her owner was inspired by J.P. Morgan's Corsair yachts from the 1930s. An apt replica, she resembles a small, classic cruise liner – with a smoke stack included.

Accommodating 12 guests, Nero is one of the most expensive charter yachts . Superyacht Nero is available for charter in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean , with a talented chef on board who has received some bizarre requests in his time.

More about this yacht

Yachts for charter.

She may look like she was born in a different era, but the 48.7 metre yacht Clarity was launched by Turkish yard Bilgin Yachts as recently as 2015. Styled in-house, this modern classic was based on a simple but ambitious premise: to build a yacht with a design that will last forever.

Her full-displacement hull has a bilge keel and bulbous bow for all-ocean seakeeping, while modest 707hp Caterpillar engines yield a serene cruising speed of around 10 knots befitting of Clarity ’s graceful appearance.

Photo: Eray Altay

The 38.8 metre Truly Classic  Atalante  was launched by Claasen in 2015 and combines retro good looks and modern performance . She features design from renowned modern classic designer Andre Hoek , who takes his inspiration from famous designers of old, such as William Fife , Charles Nicholson and Nathanael Herreshoff .

Atalante was built for the owner of a 27.5 metre Truly Classic of the same name, who enjoyed the smaller version so much that he ordered a larger, faster version.

“ Atalante represents the best of both worlds," said Hoek. "She performs like a modern thoroughbred and blends this with the timeless appeal of a classic yacht.”

The 28.9 metre Ardis II was built by De Cesari for superyacht and jewellery house owner Carlo Traglio . The mahogany motor yacht can often be seen moored in Porto Cervo, Sardinia .

Traglio spent much of his childhood on the classic 50 metre schooner Xarifa , before owning the  Perini Navi 80 yacht  Malizia . His experience of classic yachts acted as inspiration for building Ardis II , which can accommodate up to eight guests in four cabins. She is fitted with modern MTU diesel engines and is capable of 25 knots.

Launched in 2015 by Rossinavi , the 40 metre motor yacht Taransay was built to replicate yachts of the early 1930s . Taransay's owner is said to have been inspired to build a modern classic yacht after chartering the real classic Ocean Glory , launched in 1935.

Rossinavi married Taransay 's classic styling with modern propulsion – two Caterpillar C18 Acert engines deliver a top speed of 14 knots, and she has a range of 3,500 nautical miles at 10 knots. She also has spacious interiors and deck spaces thanks to a roomy 7.6 metre beam.

Eleonora E is an exact replica of the schooner Westward and an excellent example of a modern classic paying tribute to the original. She was built at the GraafShip yard in the Netherlands and was launched in March 2000. Since then, Eleonora E  — currently available for charter  — has successfully participated in a number of classic sailing regattas.

The 46 metre Sycara IV was a show-stopper when she was launched by Burger in 2009, displaying the US builder's diversity as it waded into retro yacht waters. With exteriors by Bruce King and interiors by Ken Freivokh and Craig Beale , the fantail stern yacht makes you do a double take as she could easily fit in alongside classic Trumpys .

But this modern classic has a shallow draft and was designed for cruising the Bahamas and the Great Lakes in style. Sycara IV  has modern touches with a spacious on-deck master stateroom, telescoping bowsprit and corrosion resistant aluminium hull.

Tempus Fugit

This modern classic yacht is a head turner on the racecourse, blending speed and style thanks to her highly varnished wooden hull. The 27.43 metre Tempus Fugit , from Arkin Pruva , was designed by Rob Humphreys to pay homage to J Class yachts , but she is beamier, offering more comfortable living accommodations below and in the cockpit during races.

And race she does —  Tempus Fugit was a surprise contender at regattas when she came onto the scene, holding her own against classic yachts and modern carbon crafts as well.

The beautiful, modern classic ketch Elfje is owned by philanthropist Wendy Schmidt . Schmidt had a very hands-on role in designing Elfje with Hoek Naval Architects and is proud of its environmental credentials, from its racing design to sustainable materials. Expect to hear a lot more about Elfje , a sailing superyacht of the ages , as she's been busy on the racecourse since her launch.

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Home » News » SWD News & Stories » 7 Trends in Sailing Yacht Interior Design

7 Trends in Sailing Yacht Interior Design

Posted on March 14, 2023 and filed under SWD News & Stories

Interior designer Martha Coolidge, working with Stephens Waring Design, fine-tuned the style of the woodwork detail, panel layouts, light fixtures, and other elements of 65-ft ANNA’s appearance. Photo credit: Alison Langley

There’s some irony when it comes to looking at the hottest interior design trends for custom sailing yachts: much of the inspiration for today’s designs draw from the past – combined with modern innovation.

Interior designs that emphasize simplicity, balance, and natural materials are hardly revolutionary.  Quite the opposite.  But there is a new take and balance between old and new, iconic and innovative, that seems to provide the perfect balance for creating incredible interior spaces.

We’re exploring the top 7 trends in custom yacht design for 2023.

Natural Light and Connection Between Interior and Exterior Spaces

The use of larger windows is a trend that has been gaining popularity in yacht design in recent years, as yacht owners increasingly want to maximize their views of the surrounding environment and bring more natural light into their living spaces.

One way that yacht designers are incorporating larger windows is by using high-strength glass materials that can withstand the harsh marine environment. For example, tempered glass or laminated glass with multiple layers can provide the necessary strength and durability to withstand the wind, waves, and impact from flying debris.

In addition to using strong glass materials, yacht designers are also using innovative engineering techniques to maximize the size and placement of windows. Lightweight structural materials such as carbon fiber and titanium in the yacht’s construction, allow for larger windows without compromising the yacht’s structural integrity. In the photo of ANNA, above, the white-painted transverse structural knees are part of a carbon fabrication that strengthens the cabin and carries the mainsheet loads while blending into the classic joinery.

 M ulti Functionality and Flex Spaces

The design for 68-ft CIRRUS comes from blending 40’s & 50’s era style. The large saloon is designed to provide long-term comfort and versatility with innovative vertical storage and a vaulted ceiling that includes panoramic angled glass as well as overhead skylights. Design by Stephens Waring under construction at Jim Betts Enterprises.

Owners are spending more time aboard their vessels and are adding to the list demands and programmatic needs. These include home-office, fitness centers, gourmet kitchens, and gathering places for family and friends to spend longer durations of time together.

Because space is at a premium on a yacht, designers are creating multi-functional spaces that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a seating area that can be converted into a bed or a dining table that can be lowered to create additional seating. Clever storage solutions are also being incorporated into yacht design to make the most of available space.

Old World Charm Meets Modern Sensibilities: Spirit of Tradition

44-ft ITALMUS blends a 1940’s vernacular into the stylistic details and overall aesthetic of the yacht. The interior styling and design is aimed to mirror the era with a theme of highly crafted raised paneling and elegant joinery detail of select quarter sawn mahogany and finished in satin varnis.  Design by Stephens Waring, built by Van Dam Classic Boats. Photo credit: Billy Black

Yacht designers have always had a particular reverence for heritage and history.  The notion of heading out to sea conjures images of bygone eras past.  Capturing that essence requires a balance that avoids becoming kitsch or contrived.  While mid-century design may be considered the hot design trend of 2023, as designers steeped in a Spirit of Tradition design philosophy, we feel we’ve never left the genre.

Spirit of Tradition designs embody some historically identifiable link, particularly expressed in the shape and aesthetic exhibited in the design form of the hull and superstructure. Equally important, a Spirit of Tradition vessel must embrace modern development in materials, construction methods, mechanical systems and naval architecture science. Without the Spirit in development, we’re left with only Tradition.

Natural Materials

Douglas fir deck beams, traditional raised and v-groove paneling, bright varnish and white painted surfaces make it a light, airy enclave.  Interior design by Martha Coolidge and Stephens Waring Design.  Boat construction by Lyman-Morse.  Photo credit: Alison Langley

Yacht owners by their very nature are drawn to water and the natural world, so it makes sense to incorporate natural elements such as wood, stone, and other organic materials in design. These materials create a sense of warmth and connect the interior spaces to the natural surroundings.

As experts in wooden boat design, we have long touted the benefits of timber for structural elements.  However, incorporation of hardwoods, as well as a growing trend in sustainable timbers, have become increasingly popular with owners looking to achieve aesthetic, durability, and sustainability objectives in interior design.

Other natural materials such as leather and wool are also being incorporated to add texture and comfort. These finishes not only look beautiful, but they are also durable to withstand the harsh marine environment.

Renovation and Restomods

The owner of Marilee (built in 1926) had the bold vision to create an interior that reflected the yacht’s century-long provenance while creating an open space below.  The team worked with Paul Waring of Stephens Waring Yacht Design, to create a traditional and properly constructed interior with an updated layout for relaxed, modern day use. Photo credit: Alison Langley

The popularity of restomods has been well established in the world of classic cars, but it has only recently grown in popularity in the world of yachting. Fortunately, this is changing with plenty of success stories to point to.  Restomods are ideal for owners looking for cost-effective transformations that maintain sentimental connections to vessels and deliver stunning customized spaces that can be more cost effective than new custom builds. They are also popular with owners who inherit family boats, but need more utility and comfort for future generations.

Historical interiors often lack the ergonomics and amenities most owners seek today.  Good restoration projects embrace as much of the original charm and character of the original design as possible while improving comfort and livability.  Upgrades to electrical systems, electronics and navigation, plumbing and propulsion systems are low hanging fruit.  The interior design aesthetics requires a careful and complementary approach which honors the original character while updating comfort, utility, and aesthetics.

Flexible Spaces for a Crew Cabin

65-ft ANNA’s design includes a unique pocket door system.  The design provides an easy way to expand square footage when the cabin  is not needed or to private a comfortable extra cabin or crew quarters when extra hands or guests are aboard. Design by Stephens Waring. Construction by Lyman Morse Photo credit: Alison Langley

Owners often struggle with the balance between the desire for a larger vessel with larger interior spaces and the challenge of maintaining a total vessel size (and cost) which is manageable.

As we get older the idea of managing and skippering our own vessel can come at the expense of enjoyment.  Hiring crew alleviates some of the operational challenges and burdens, but it also means sharing interior space with others.

Flexible crew cabins provide a cost effective way to optimize space for when crew is and isn’t aboard. One solution is the installation of pocket doors on sleeping quarters. This converts square footage from private berths (crew quarters) to main salon gathering space when doors are opened and transforms the space to private rooms for guests and crew when needed.

Smart technology

Yacht owners are increasingly interested in incorporating smart technology into their vessels. This includes lighting, climate control, entertainment systems, and security features that can be controlled remotely. Smart technology allows yacht owners to control the environment on board and manage energy consumption more efficiently. It also adds an extra layer of security by allowing the owner to monitor their yacht from afar.

Related Articles:

A Clients Dream Crystalized in Spirit of Tradition Style

Pushing the Edge of Accommodations Design

Boat Renovations and Restorations 101

Yacht Philosophy: How to Make Small Spaces Feel Big

site by: slickfish studios

Yacht Interior Design Concepts. Part 1

• October 3rd, 2016
• Cruise Report

As you may have read in one or two of my articles on the refit project of my own King´s Cruiser 33 sailing yacht a lot of effort goes into the refurbishment of the boat´s interior. That´s because my 40 year old ship hasn´t lost any of her undeniable sailing qualities, but therefore a lot of her appeal and appearance. Though most of the works done is cosmetic, I often wonder which way is the best, how to do this and that the right way in order to keep the King´s Cruiser´s character on the one hand and to achieve a modern approach with a yet classic appeal in re-designing her internal fitting. Strolling around the various boat shows is a welcome inspiration. Such as the Interboot Friedirchshafen, where I was able to spend two days.

This article is dedicated to showing some interior design concepts of a handful of boats I visited on the Interboot. Maybe I can draw some inspiration from the solutions done by the big brands like Beneteau, Jeanneau, Dragonfly, Hallberg-Rassy, Dufour or Dehler. Some 90.000 people have been attending Interboot fair this year, situated at the Lake Konstanz, a huge inshore water marking partially the border between Germany, Switzerland and Austria. Though the emphasis of the Interboot is on smaller vessels, mostly Daysailers, there have been quite a handful of bigger ships meant for serious offshore sailing: The charter sailing areas of the Adriatic aren´t that far away. Here´s what I´ve noticed: I´ve visited nine different boats, 4 of them in this first article, another 5 in the upcoming Part 2.

The big bold Cruiser: Beneteau Oceanis 45

I was very much interested in seeing this boat as Beneteau is undeniably the market leader and the yard with the highest output of production sailing yachts worldwide. So I bite the bullet and put myself in the queue to get a glimpse of her interior design. The Beneteau Oceanis 45 is some 14 meters in length over all, has a maximum beam of 4.50 meters and a displacement of some 10.5 tons. That´s quite a punch.

By waiting in line I could inspect her outward appearance. Well, she is a big lady. Not very distinctive lines, nothing really exciting for one´s eyes to get a grip on. The huge portholes seem a bit oversized to me, the cabin´s superstructure is round shaped in a convex line which appears unnatural. Lots of plastic and no teak decking whatsoever. All in all her appearance was … well, not very glamorous. Worst about her outward design was the targa bar, hosting the mainsheet traveller as it is costumary on all Oceanis variants right now. It may be perfect for Bimini fixing, but believe me – especially in combination with the huge sprayhood – it looks overdesigned and really awkward. Well, let´s go inside.

Since this 45 feet yacht is a big fellow and no matter if owned by an individual or used by a larger group of people on a charter cruise, 45 feet should be more than spacious. But upon entering her saloon I was instantly disappointed, because I really couldn’t develop a sense of spaciousness at all. I really don´t know if that´s due to the color-scheme of that particular boat (50 shades of coffee-brown) or due to the layout of the whole interior, I couldn´t get a feeling of coziness here.

Entering the saloon from the companionway there´s a galley to port side and a saloon. A U-settee on starboard side with a folding dining table and a 2-person settee to starboard side, of which I´d like to talk later. The L-shaped galley offers more than enough space for cooking and working the plates, a large fridge and a 2-flame stove should be more than enough. Stowage is plenty of available, so that´s a plus for the Beneteau 45. Vis-à-vis a large head with shower can be used by the crew. But let´s go back to the saloon concept as it is the most remarkable – and awkward – detail on that boat.

By taking a closer look to the starboard U-settee I couldn´t help but shake my head: For my taste there´s absolutely nothing at least trying to appeal my eyes: The portholes are far too big, the veneer providing cover for the porthole has an even bigger porthole-outlet creating a feeling of being unfinished. The walls offer no structure at all and I felt battered by the sheer vastness of dull brown and grey colors. I know, well – I hope – that owners could choose other fabrics, colors and hopefully wooden veneers too, but this particular configuration and design didn´t appeal to me at all. Which is a pity. Learning for the design of my own boat: A ship´s internal fittings should at least partially be of wooden materials. In this sense, the new Beneteau 45 is just too modern for me.

But that wasn´t the only awkward thing about the boat. Spending lots of time to think about the perfect navigation station on my own boat and in designing and building the perfect chart table I am always particularly interested in the solutions of contemporary yachts in these terms. The Beneteau 45 was in this case a real runaway: Why would a ship´s designer put the chart table to the farthest place away from the companionway? Why would the same designer put the main electric control panel on a totally different position? As it was done on the Beneteau 45.

I think it´s crazy: Upon taking a look onto the charts, the skipper must reach through all of the length of the saloon to get to his chart table, mounted on the bulkhead to the fore peak, reach back all the way to the companionway. To check for electric status, the panel is mounted farther back in the saloon, so he has to get up again from his navigation station. I just couldn´t grasp it. The only reason why one would design such a thing is – skipper´s chart work isn´t considered important anymore.

Besides, standing in the fore cabin door looking aft I again couldn´t get a sense of being inside a 45 feet ship: The saloon really does not mediate a roomy spacious sensation: More to the contrary, I had a feeling of being somewhat constricted.

The aft cabins of the Beneteau 45 are huge. The berths, or should I say beds, offering more than enough space to find a good night´s sleep. Again, huge portholes allow a wide view to the sides of the freeboard though I would have gone for more (yet apparently smaller) portholes which could be therefore opened for fresh air. Again, some of the practical solutions appeared cheaply done, such as the sheathing of the hull which is simply a thin bent board screwed to the boat. Some of the other fittings such as stowage and cupboards did seem to be made with good quality joinery as well.

At last I found the owner´s cabin in the fore peak emptied of other guests and took my chance. What I really like is the huge, partially foldable forward bulkhead which will open up more than just a narrow door to the fore cabin but a wide passage – thus creating a roomier feeling. This was seen also on the Dufour Grand Large 310 I´ve visited some weeks ago, where this effect can be seen in a very spectacular way . In the Beneteau 45 the fore cabin is really more than appropriate: The master bed is huge, as well as the portholes again. Enough stowage available in two big cabinets as well. All in all, I must rather say, this boats didn´t appeal to me at all. I just couldn´t get warm with her internal layout, the floor plan seemed sometimes crazy (see navigation station), color scheme and some of the practical solution created a cheap sensation.

Cruiser-Racer with Kitchen-Feeling: Elan S4

Elan yachts are known for their sailing characteristics, renowned for speed and synonymous for cruiser-racer with style. Upon entering the stand of the S4 I took some time to admire the lines of her hull: Sleek, aggressive with distinctive chines, a racy bulb keel and twin rudders create a sensation of speed and power. That boat really lives up to the brand value and I was excited to be allowed to inspect her interior. How is an Elan S4 sailing yacht appearing from the inside? Racer-cruising with style – let´s check it out.

Again, I must admit, I was partially disappointed. I instantly got the feeling of being in a kitchen. There are cupboards installed all over the saloon circumferentially, white colored with a decorative band of reflecting mirror-like metal. That created a mixture of kitchen, medical practice and furniture store. I am sorry, but the choice for the saloon´s fabrics, colors and styling elements was a clear overshoot in my eyes: Too much of everything, too much of a medley of too many decorative things competing for the beholder´s eyes. Which is a pity, because the floor plan is a classic. I hope owners can configure their Elan S4 boats in way that the saloon could mediate a cleaner, homogenous and more relaxing atmosphere!

On the other hand, a definite plus on the Elan S4 is the huge galley. Rounded edges, a nice arrangement of different materials and the joinery did satisfy my demand instantly, more so, it made up partially for the jumbo-mumbo of designs of the saloon. The galley offers more than enough space. Compared to the Beneteau 51 I did had the feeling that although being some 10 feet shorter and therefore having less space available, Elan´s designers managed to get out a lot more spaciousness than their French counterparts.

The rear cabin was a bit of a disappointment on the other side. Though wooden veneers have been installed plenty of and made a nice impression, I was puzzled of the Elan S4 offering so much ordinary shelves instead of proper cabinets. I would assume this boat going at a high speed with quite some heeling: Open shelves, especially these really big ones, won´t hold to their contents. It´s frustrating to find one´s stuff spread over the whole cabin after a day of rocky sailing. On the other hand, size of the berths seemed adequate, same as to her opening hatches for fresh air.

All in all I must admit, the interior design solutions seen on the Elan S4 couldn´t really win my enthusiasm. Though the floor plan and overall layout did really appeal to my eyes, there have been too much decorative elements competing with each other, too many lines running through one´s sight creating an unsteady feeling. I don´t think I could calm down and really relax in an Elan saloon. A big minus are the huge useless shelves, I hope that there is an extra package to order proper cabinets.

Nevertheless, I´d love to sail one of these. Standing in the cockpit I suddenly realized that these boats are primarily made for sailing and that was the feeling I instantly got by placing myself at the helm. There is no decking or teak applications to be seen anyhow (though it certainly is part of the extra packages offered), multiple stands for safe and sound foothold whilst sailing and the large mainsheet traveller right across the cockpit floor talks business.

A real Highlight: The new Dehler 34

That was a real hype in all those print magazines and high glossy boating gazettes when Dehler launched its latest model: “A Legend is reborn”, as it was said. And right they are, expectations are high since the old Dehler 34 has been one of the most successful and trend-setting yachts for the your Dehler company back in the good old days. Looking at her from the outside I instantly liked her clean sleek lines. I was very keen on inspecting her interiors.

The same tension I did have upon getting to see the new Dehler 42 cruiser-racer some weeks ago (read that particular article here ): Dehler is part of the large Hanse Group but wants to retain a certain stand-alone character. And the big company is good advised to let them have – Dehler has a reputation of making very well sailing fast yachts with an emphasis on good quality when it comes to internal fittings.

Looking at her stern it seems a bit odd: When all the others, even Beneteau, are springing for “modern” chines and twin rudders, the racy Dehler does not feature any of them. There´s a huge single rudder, a somewhat ordinary keel – though a bit deeper than normal cruising keels – and that´s it. I wonder what sailing this boat might be like. So I climbed the stand and asked for admission to enter the boat, which was granted.

Classy. That´s what came into my mind when I set foot on her deck. Noble teak decking in the cockpit, a huge mainsheet traveller on the floor right before the notorious double wheel helming station. All seemed right and made by people who know what they are doing. Nice job. This was the first cockpit I really liked on this fair and suddenly a smile shooed over my face. Let´s go inside …

Wow, classy again! Her saloon is just wonderful. There´s lot of wooden fittings, nicely done and I really liked the fabric of the cushion. Colors are in harmony with each other, there´s no frills around and everything is done with an emphasis on creating a real ship-like atmosphere. No time to think back of the overdressed Elan or the wannabe Jeanneau. This is real good interior design!

The saloon is classic: Two settees on either side, a large foldable dining table in the middle. That´s it. The Dehler 34 has a maximum beam of just 3.60 meters. A slim boat. We remember: She was built to sail fast. And that’s why there´s no U-settee or other gadgets in the saloon. I can vividly envision a crew taking a pause down below deck from an exhausting sailing day out offshore.

Upon entering by coming down the companionway the sailor will find a small L-galley to the starboard side, vis-à-vis a head with a separated shower. The saloon features a small navigation station facing aft which I guess is a concession to modern sailing yacht interior design. I took a seat and tried to imagine myself doing chartwork at this chart table, which is possible, but could be a bit tricky since the worktop is rather small for my taste. Again, big enough navigation stations are a thing of the past, I guess, after most of the sailors will stick to their huge multicolored digital displays. What I really liked at the Dehler 34 navigation station was the rounded cover for VHF and electric switch panel. By the way, all the rounded headrests, reminding me of a private jet or something, are folding offering a lot of stowage here.

Aft cabin was huge for a 34 feet boat. I even felt kind of bigger than that of the Beneteau some 10 feet larger, but that might be a fallacy. What is fact is that – also contrary to the Beneteau – the quality of craftsmanship seemed a lot higher in the Dehler. Veneers made of nice material, and a real cabinet with closing doors did appeal to me very much.

Somewhat cheap, I must admit, the owner´s cabin. Not so much due to her size – the fore peak is slim – bit due to the fact that white plastic surfaces dominate this cabin. I would have gone for a wooden panel or kind of veneer for covering the collision bulkhead, maybe added a mirror or something to optically widen the feeling of space in this cabin.

Nevertheless, I loved the Dehler 34. She might be quite a stormy sailing yacht, I just don´t know, but as her bigger sister, the Dehler 42, was already announcing, Dehler´s interior designers have made a wonderful job in creating a very likable saloon, minor drawbacks in the fore cabin put aside.

Space. Ship. The Dufour Grand Large 460

Since I got the chance to inspect the Grand Large 310 (read the article here ) in Germany I got more and more interested in this French brand. Dufour is a widely known name in Germany, but few are to be seen at the jetties and it seems that most sailors I know don´t really have a clue what a Dufour is all about. And yet, Dufour is building sailing yachts since more than 52 years and the boats bear an image of being good responding, fast boats with an emphasis on luxurious travel. Here we go – the Grand Large 460.

Her hull is indeed one of the biggest boats to be presented at the Interboot and as I roamed her rudder below the waterline I noticed her flat bottom and sleek lines. Made for speed? I climbed the stairs and had to wait some minutes to be let inside since Dufour´s stand was funnily enough crowded with people. But when I was granted entry and I once got down below deck, I must admit, I couldn´t barely find words. This is just w-o-w.

First of all, the saloon was that spacious, that I was climbing out of the boat instantly and checked for the boat´s size. Just to be sure: This was a 46 feet yacht, having nearly exactly the size of the Beneteau 45 and yet the feeling of space inside the cabin was so much greater. Is it? The Grand Large has a max beam of 4.50 meters. So that´s exactly the same available space, yet they can squeeze out so much more room. The Dufour greeted me with a dancehall-like space upon arriving in her majestic main saloon. But despite the roomy feeling, it offered a lot more.

Floor plan of the saloon just seems to be classic – a large L-settee on the starboard site faced by a 2-person settee vis-à-vis. But let´s look at the details: The large dining table isn´t foldable. Why? There´s so much space available. A stool that could accommodate 2 people in front of the table. I don´t know if I would like the stool to have a back rest, since without it one could use it for both sitting at the table and just taking a seat “by the way” facing the other settee in a short pause. What really sets the Dufour Grand Large 460 apart from all the other boats I´ve seen so far is the galley. It´s just awesome.

The galley is divided from the “living room” and divided in itself. To the port side all of the main working stuff is situated: Sink, Stove with oven, Worktop and lots of stowage as well as cupboards mounted at eye-level for best reach. By the way: That reminded me of the Elan S4´s cupboards and showed yet how to make it a lot better. The cupboards are perfectly blending in the overall design concept of the boat just neatly. Right in the corner of the galley a large fridge is mounted. But that´s not enough …

… because right on the other side of the galley, starboard, there´s another part of it, featuring no less than two more fridges for beverages, another large worktop and stowage as well. This secondary galley is again separated from the “living area” by a stand, I suppose this is where a retractable TFT could be mounted (which was not in the boat I visited). Okay, that´s a lot of galley stuff here, and one could argue that a retractable TFT as well as all the integrated LED-lighting is a lot of bells and whistles. Well – it is indeed. But you know what? That was the first boat that was living up to its promise of travelling “in style”. Lots of it. Lots of it I was seeking to no avail in the Beneteau.

But the Grand Large appears to be a real sailing ship too. Dufour yachts have the reputation of not just being nice for the mooring party at the Saint Tropez jetty but of being quite capable sailing boats. An indication is the first real practical solution for the navigator: The chart table and navigation station has been done with care. Again, the chart table didn´t had the size I would wish it has, but it is adjustable to heeling, which can be a great plus offshore. Main switch panel and VHF are – of course – within reach. Best thing: If the sailor has no need for the navigation station, it can be moved away completely. The table can be moved aft as it rests on kind of rails, as well as the small navigator´s stool, that will go forward. This way, the settee becomes even longer.

All cabins of the Grand Large 460 offer more than enough space as well as stowage – both cupboards, shelves and cabinets. The bathrooms (and I´d like to call it bathroom, not head) are again huge and seem to be made with great care for craftsmanship and choice of material. The berths, or let´s name it: Beds, are long and wide enough even for tall people, I particularly liked the owner´s cabin of the Dufour. Everything is covered with wooden panels, there are shelves all around for the small stuff, cupboards and cabinets overhead and to both sides of the entry door. A mirror at the collision bulkhead creates visual space. Bravo!

I´d like to see that boat move under sails. Maybe that´s something I am going to do next season, as this boat is really an interesting one. Concerning maneuverability, Dufour seems to be putting forward a new technique called Jet Thruster which basically works by pumping water through a throttle to create thrust for maneuvering. Smaller system, no water intake (and all that stuff floating with it) like with the old thruster systems and a steady stream of water to create constant thrust. Interesting.

All in all, the Grand Large 460 was a very interesting boat and one of the most beautiful in terms of design. I personally would let away all those bling bling LED and other “luxurious” parts but floor plan and the outcome of designing that boat and making the most of the available space is just awesome. Designers have made a marvelous job in designing this sailing yacht, indeed.

More Boats and Interior Designs in the upcoming article

That´s it for now as a single text would be too much for you to read through. Within the next week, Part 2 of my Interboot impressions will feature Jeannaeu, Hallberg-Rassy, Dragonfly and Schöchl Sunbeam. As well as a small boat made by a virtually unknown yard.

Klick here for Part 2.

Interested in sailboat interior design? Here´s a visit on the Hallberg-Rassy 412 and 43 .

Another dream yacht – the Pogo 12.50 : Fast as hell and quite something different.

Design and seaworthiness? Read more about this one here .

CLASSIC > 100'

Dating back to 1987, the Hoek range of classic yachts consists of custom-designed and custom-built projects developed in close partnership with owners. Ranging in size from 33 to 262 feet, these sloops, schooners and ketches all have their own distinctive interiors, sail plans and layouts. What all Hoek classics have in common is the way they combine a classic hull shape and above-water styling with a modern underwater configuration. The first designs with a wing keel and spade rudder were the 70-foot sloop Joss and the 70-foot ketch Kim; their unprecedented performance and manoeuvrability were seen as a true breakthrough in yachting. Hoek Design became the frontrunner in the ‘classic above/modern below’ approach to yachting.  And, as shown by designs such as the 37 feet Wallynano and Athos (203 feet), a broad range and an ongoing commitment to perfection enable us to maintain a leading position to this day.

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5 Beautiful Wooden Boats That Blend Classic Design With Modern Technology

Now that's good wood., michael verdon, michael verdon's most recent stories.

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From one of the largest single-masted wooden sailing yachts in the UK to a mahogany 30-footer with an Art Deco–themed interior, this quartet of vessels showcases just what’s possible with timber, the most classic of boatbuilding materials.

The 111-foot Geist , launched last July by Spirit , is the largest single-masted wooden sailing yacht built in the UK since the 1930s, when the America’s Cup yacht Shamrock V ruled the seas. But Geist is much more than a giant sloop. Her eco-conscious owner mandated systems like the first-of-its-kind electric propulsion by Torqeedo—a 100 kw motor fed by BMW lithium-ion battery banks, which recharge while Geist is sailing—while her Rhoades Young interior elevates wood to its maximum potential, showing off sustainably sourced sipo mahogany, teak and walnut in a series of continuously flowing curves. Even her sails are made of recyclable materials.

Navy Destroyer

Hacker Boat Company traces its roots to John Hacker, who crafted boats for the rich and famous during the Roaring Twenties. The Ticonderoga, N.Y., facility builds modern triple-cockpit runabouts that nonetheless appear straight from the docks of J. D. Rockefeller. The recently launched Restless is a custom project, a modern thoroughbred based on the 1923 Miss APBA race boat; she uses a foot pedal rather than a throttle for acceleration, on her way to a top speed of 65 mph. The Hacker team achieved the striking navy hull by combining a double-planked mahogany layup with a fiberglass skin, while the owners chose the same Cuoio leather favored by Ferrari to pair with the boat’s mahogany topsides.

Jakob Boesch built his first boat in the 1890s, and more than a century later his family continues to merge new technologies with old-world Swiss craftsmanship. Boesch ’s new, 28-foot 860 has a classically styled mahogany hull with up to 11 layers of wood laid at right angles, sealed with six layers of epoxy and finished with six layers of varnish. Propulsion choices include modern options like twin 150 kw electric engines for quiet, emissions-free operation. The runabout’s meticulously crafted silhouette disguises a beast of a machine designed for precise handling, tow sports and speed. Equipped with twin 380 hp Ilmor gas engines, the 860 can hit 48 mph, leaving fiberglass towboats in its wake.

Fiber Class

Unlike the rest of the list, the Hood 57 LM isn’t a proper wooden boat. The hull is what manufacturer Lyman-Morse calls “wood composite,” a combination of strip-planked fir and fiberglass, though its 1950s New England look—including the superstructure’s teak veneer—and pioneering construction suggest the potential for a modern-retro segment; it offers high-tech features such as a carbon-fiber flybridge roof and electric windows. A tough, lightweight boat designed to run offshore, its twin 1350 Volvo IPS pod drives deliver a top speed of 43 mph, while the interior, with its open salon and two generous staterooms, is as spacious as any fiberglass competitor.

Van Dam , which has been building mahogany boats since 1977, moved away from traditional 1920s-style runabouts to focus on original designs such as Catnip . The 30-footer has an Art Deco–themed interior, with stunning metalwork—including an array of semicircular gauge housings, windshield frames with slatted openings and a mirror-like stainless rudder—complementing an expanse of varnished mahogany. With twin 385 hp Ilmor inboards, Catnip has a top end of 57 mph, and since Van Dam won’t build any boat twice, she’s also unique.

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YACHT INTERIOR DESIGN

With strong experience of life aboard yachts and historic styles we design period interiors that are faithful to the original style and which offer modern day functionality.

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LUXURY YACHT INTERIOR DESIGN

From preliminary layouts through to final production drawings, our interior yacht designs are based on a clear understanding of on-board operations. These will reconcile the competing requirements of owners and guests; crew and regulations. This detailed approach allows a yacht to fulfil the full range of requirements of all who will sail in her. This translates into owner and guest enjoyment and an effective crew living and working environment that allow crew members to succeed in their area of expertise and deliver a first class service to Owners and their guests.

CLASSIC YACHT INTERIOR DESIGN

With in-depth experience of life aboard contemporary yachts and a detailed knowledge of historic interior design styles we design period interiors that are faithful to the original style yet which offer modern day functionality.

With classic yachts many period solutions remain relevant today, but equally innovative approaches are required to incorporate modern services and amenities. Our designs acknowledge the often competing criteria of comfort, storage, security and owner requirements in order to deliver quality solutions that allow guests and crew to enjoy the most satisfying and rewarding environments. Our extensive knowledge and archive of classic yacht interior designs allows us to restore and recreate period interiors that are authentic to the original design. Our material choices and finishes, as well as fittings and fabrics, all contribute to creating the right period feel which may be young and vibrant or formal.

SERVICE AREAS

To respond to the catering requirements our designs will typically include galleys, pantries, other food preparation areas, cold stores, dry provision storage and wine stores. Similar attention is given to laundry facilities and storage, waste management, workshops and general storage areas. It is the design of these ‘behind the scenes’ areas and the flow between them that allows crew to deliver first class service.

G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd. 20-23 Woodside Place, Glasgow G3 7QL, Scotland

Tel: +44 (141) 501 0480

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