Bavaria 760 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Bavaria 760 emerged during a period of significant growth for Bavaria Yachts, a company founded in 1978 by Winfried Herrmann and Josef Meltl. Their original ethos centered on leveraging modern manufacturing techniques to produce high-quality, series-produced yachts that were more broadly accessible. This commitment to "German engineering expertise, precision, and quality" underpinned Bavaria's approach, leading to their pioneering adoption of assembly-line production methods.

Axel Mohnhaupt's design for the Bavaria 760 aimed for a "slightly more speedy hull design" for its class, reflecting a balance between comfortable cruising and respectable performance. With a length overall of just under 25 feet (24.93 ft) and a waterline length of 21.33 feet, the 760 was conceived as a nimble and manageable vessel. Its fiberglass solid hull and deck construction were typical of Bavaria's robust build practices of the era. The boat features a wing keel with a maximum draft of 4.27 feet and a masthead sloop rig, providing a balanced sail plan for varied conditions. There is no widespread information to suggest significant variations or mark versions (e.g., MkI, MkII) were produced during its run, indicating a consistent design throughout its production years which began in 1985.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While the Bavaria 760, at under 30 feet, is considered a smaller cruising sailboat, its design by Axel Mohnhaupt aimed for a hull with a degree of speed. With a reported total sail area of 260 square feet and a displacement of 2,976 pounds, the Bavaria 760 is equipped to offer a lively, yet manageable, sailing experience for its size. Its relatively light displacement for its length suggests it can perform well in lighter breezes, while the 1,102 pounds of ballast contribute to its stability. The boat's hull speed is calculated at approximately 6.19 knots, indicating its potential speed through the water under ideal conditions. Owners generally find the Bavaria 760 to be an easy-to-handle boat, well-suited for coastal excursions and weekend trips, benefiting from a responsive tiller steering system and its compact dimensions for maneuvering in marinas.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bavaria 760, consistent with its compact cruiser designation, offers a practical layout designed to maximize the available space. Typical configurations for a boat of this size usually include a V-berth forward, a compact head compartment, a small galley, and a saloon area. Interior photos often show a traditional finish with wooden accents and blue cushions, creating a cozy and functional living space. While headroom might be limited compared to larger vessels, the Bavaria 760 generally offers approximately 1.70 to 1.75 meters (around 5.6 to 5.7 feet) of headroom in the main cabin, allowing comfortable movement for most occupants. Storage is typically provided through lockers and shelving integrated into the saloon and sleeping areas, catering to the needs of short to medium-term cruising. The boat also includes practical capacities for extended outings, with 26 gallons each for fuel and water.