Oceanis 500 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Oceanis 500 emerged from the Beneteau yards in 1988, with its production run continuing until 1991. During this period, 158 units of this popular model were built. Philippe Briand's design philosophy for the Oceanis 500 focused on ensuring a lasting pleasure in sailing and streamlining the onboard experience. This aligned well with Beneteau's broader ethos of the era, which saw the company embracing fiberglass construction to create more accessible and appealing recreational sailboats that balanced performance, comfort, and affordability. Beneteau, known for its collaborations with esteemed naval architects, consistently produced well-built, thoughtfully designed yachts.

While the core design remained consistent, some charter versions of the Oceanis 500 were marketed as the Moorings 500 or Prestige 500. Owners also sometimes reconfigured the interior layouts, such as converting a four-cabin arrangement into a more expansive three-cabin setup with a larger master suite. Notably, the interior finish of the Oceanis 500 features a more significant amount of wood detailing compared to later Beneteau models, contributing to a warmer, more traditional ambiance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau Oceanis 500 is characterized by its balanced sailing performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.68, the vessel exhibits a good balance between light-air performance and capability in stronger winds. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 35.2% contributes to its stability, allowing it to stand up to a decent breeze. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 155.35 suggests that for a yacht of its size, the Oceanis 500 is a relatively lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser.

Despite its substantial dimensions, the Oceanis 500 is frequently praised for being "surprisingly easy to handle". This characteristic makes it a practical choice for both experienced sailors and those looking for a large cruiser that doesn't demand excessive effort. Its design allows it to maintain stability, making it a reliable option for various cruising scenarios, from coastal jaunts to more ambitious offshore passages. The theoretical hull speed for the Oceanis 500 is 8.94 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The Beneteau Oceanis 500 is renowned for its generous and adaptable interior accommodations, offering "exceptional internal habitability". The design typically provides "large accommodations for friends or family". Standard layouts often feature three separate cabins, each with its own bathroom, alongside an additional double cabin that can serve as a crew quarter or extra guest space. Some owners have opted to modify the original four-cabin layouts, transforming them into a more luxurious three-cabin version that includes a significantly larger master suite.

The saloon is described as "nice" and provides a comfortable living area. Unlike some more contemporary Beneteau designs, the Oceanis 500's interior showcases a richer use of wood, contributing to a more traditional and inviting atmosphere. While specific headroom details are not readily available in all specifications, the overall impression is one of spaciousness and practicality, designed for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Oceanis 500 generally appreciate its robust build and comfortable motion at sea. The yacht's ease of handling, despite its considerable size, is a frequently lauded characteristic. Many owners have found the Oceanis 500 to be a capable and reliable vessel, with some even considering it suitable for circum-navigation.

However, like any vessel of its age, certain common maintenance considerations emerge. General issues such as corrosion can be found on older Beneteau vessels that have seen decades of exposure to the elements. There have also been instances reported by owners regarding issues with original deck fittings or the steering system, including rudder bearings, which may require attention over time. Despite these potential age-related concerns, the Beneteau Oceanis 500 maintains a loyal following, appreciated for its enduring design, comfortable living spaces, and solid cruising capabilities.