Amel 55 Information, Review, Specs

The Amel 55 entered production in 2010, marking a modern chapter in Amel's storied history of crafting dedicated cruising yachts. Its design drew direct inspiration from the sleek and contemporary aesthetics of its larger sibling, the Amel 64. Henri Amel, the visionary founder of the company, established an ethos centered on building yachts that prioritize comfort, reliability, and ease of maintenance, a philosophy clearly evident in the Amel 55. The builder's commitment to quality is upheld by its unique ownership structure, wherein the company was left in perpetuity to its workers, fostering a deep sense of dedication and craftsmanship. The Amel 55 was offered with options including a 'cabriolet' or a 'hardtop' version, and two distinct interior layouts, allowing for a degree of customization within its standard offerings.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.8, the Amel 55 is well-suited for comfortable cruising rather than outright speed, indicating a design that prioritizes stability and ease of motion over aggressive light-air performance. Her ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.27, suggests a reliance on form stability combined with a deep fin keel to provide a stiff and predictable platform in varying conditions. Reflecting its heavy displacement, the Amel 55 boasts a displacement to length ratio of approximately 410, firmly placing it in the category of a substantial, traditional blue water cruiser, designed to handle challenging seas with composure.

Owners and reviewers consistently highlight the Amel 55's user-friendly nature, particularly its innovative engineering, which includes joystick sail handling for simplified control. The ketch rig, a hallmark of many Amel designs, is fully furling, featuring electric reefing systems for both the mainsail and genoa, enhancing ease of use and safety for shorthanded sailing. While not designed as a racing yacht, the Amel 55 embodies Amel's core values of comfort and reliability at sea, ensuring a secure and pleasant motion even in adverse weather.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Amel 55 is designed to maximize comfort and functionality for extended periods offshore. Owners have praised the meticulous finishes and the luxurious feel of the accommodations. The layout typically features a well-protected center cockpit, a signature Amel design element, from which there is a direct line of sight to the interior, facilitating communication and connectivity between the cockpit and the salon. The Amel 55 was available in two main interior configurations: a standard three-double cabin layout or a two-cabin version, both offering ample space. The aft section often houses a spacious owner's cabin, providing a private and comfortable retreat. Interior finishes frequently include light oak wood trim complemented by a wenge finish floor, contributing to a bright and sophisticated ambiance. The boat typically includes two heads, ensuring convenience for those living aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners often praise the Amel 55 for its robust construction and the inherent confidence it instills for serious offshore voyaging. The ease of handling, especially with the integrated powered systems, is a frequently lauded feature, making a yacht of this size manageable for a couple. However, some new Amel owners, particularly those with limited prior experience in large vessels, have noted that the sheer size of the Amel 55 can initially feel somewhat overwhelming, requiring a learning curve to become fully accustomed to its operation. Despite this, the consensus emphasizes the Amel 55's strong build quality and its suitability as a reliable and comfortable platform for extensive blue water cruising.