Idylle 1550 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Beneteau Idylle 1550 was in production for a brief but impactful period, from 1985 to 1987. During this era, Beneteau, under the leadership of Benjamin Bénéteau's grandsons, was firmly entrenched in the fiberglass revolution, a pivotal shift that allowed for more efficient production and broader appeal beyond their traditional fishing fleet. The company's manufacturing ethos emphasized robust build quality and a harmonious balance between performance, comfort, and affordability. For the Idylle 1550, Beneteau collaborated with German Frers, a naval architect renowned for his elegant and performance-oriented designs. Frers' philosophy likely aimed to imbue the Idylle 1550 with characteristics that made it a high performer for a moderate-weight sailboat, while still prioritizing stability and comfort for its intended cruising and charter roles. While specific MkI or MkII variations are not widely documented, a notable distinction exists between the "owners versions" and the more prevalent "Moorings 51" models, which were optimized for the Caribbean charter trade.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Idylle 1550 is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat that delivers high performance for its class. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 21.92, she exhibits strong light-air performance, indicating an ability to move well even in lighter breezes. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.393 suggests good inherent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to more wind and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. This is further supported by anecdotal reports describing her as stable, stiff, and possessing good righting capability. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 270.9 places her firmly in the category of a comfortable cruising boat, offering a solid feel on the water rather than the light, twitchy nature of a pure racer. Owners have noted her pleasant handling characteristics and her ability to sail effectively at a 40-degree angle to the wind, underscoring her balanced performance.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed with comfort as a primary consideration, the Beneteau Idylle 1550 offers a spacious interior well-suited for extended stays aboard. The design typically features a layout of three double cabins, providing ample sleeping quarters for multiple guests or a large family. Some configurations might also be found with two cabins. The saloon is noted for being spacious and comfortable, often adorned with classic wooden cabinetry that contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Complementing the living areas is a well-equipped galley, crucial for meal preparation during extended cruises. The vessel also includes at least one bathroom, catering to the needs of its occupants. With a generous maximum headroom of 6.56 feet, the interior feels open and accommodating, a significant advantage for liveaboard comfort.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Idylle 1550 frequently praise its overall spaciousness, a characteristic that makes it highly appealing for cruising and longer passages. Many appreciate the boat's comfortable motion and its solid, dependable feel on the water, attributing these qualities to its robust construction and well-regarded German Frers design. The vessel's suitability for family outings and its pleasant sailing characteristics are commonly highlighted. While general concerns occasionally arise with older fiberglass boats, such as potential issues with deck fittings or general wear, owners of the Idylle 1550 consistently value its fundamental design and performance as a capable cruiser.