Oceanis 55 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Oceanis 55 debuted in 2013, continuing Beneteau's long-standing tradition of producing high-quality recreational sailboats. Beneteau, founded in 1884, revolutionized boatbuilding in the 1960s with its adoption of fiberglass construction, a pivotal moment that allowed for more efficient production and broader appeal. This manufacturing ethos, focused on balancing performance, comfort, and affordability, is clearly evident in the Oceanis 55.

Berret Racoupeau Yacht Design, a frequent collaborator with Beneteau, conceived the Oceanis 55 with a philosophy centered on comfortable cruising and noteworthy travel speed, prioritizing exceptional seafaring qualities. Nauta Design, known for their elegant and contemporary styling, was tasked with creating an interior that maximized both aesthetics and practicality., 2] The design incorporates a powerful hull shape, often featuring a chined design for enhanced stability and interior volume.

Beneteau offered considerable versatility within the Oceanis 55 line, providing a lengthy options list that allowed owners to tailor the vessel to their specific needs. This included various keel options, sail plans, and a remarkable selection of accommodation layouts, with up to five cabins available in addition to space for a crew. Furthermore, optional twin rudders were available to enhance control, and different draft options, including shallow and very shallow, were offered with corresponding ballast variations. The success of the Oceanis 55 paved the way for subsequent models, such as the Oceanis 55.1.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau Oceanis 55 boasts a design optimized for enjoyable and efficient cruising. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 19.9, she exhibits good light-air performance, indicating a yacht capable of moving well even in lighter breezes. Her Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of around 133.6 places her in the lighter, more performance-oriented category for a vessel of her size, suggesting a responsive and spirited ride.

Despite her substantial displacement of 36,807 lbs, the Oceanis 55 is remarkably manageable, capable of being readily handled by a couple. The optional twin rudders contribute significantly to precise control, while the dual helm positions allow for straightforward sail handling. Her balanced hull design ensures stability, offering a soft ride even in a seaway, with the forefoot maintaining connection and minimizing pounding, a common issue with some modern flat-bottomed hulls. The functional deck layout, featuring a sheltered cockpit and wide side decks, further enhances ease of movement and safety onboard. The standard rig, featuring a central mast and a jib with little overlap, contributes to her reputation as an easy-to-sail yacht.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Oceanis 55 is a hallmark of its design, emphasizing space, comfort, and safety. Nauta Design's influence is evident in the stylish and contemporary interior, characterized by an ambient feeling of natural light and high-quality finishes. The boat was designed to compete with models from other large production builders, offering a luxurious feel, often enhanced by a host of optional extras.

A key feature of the Oceanis 55's interior is its remarkable flexibility. Beneteau offered up to five different accommodation plans, plus options for a dedicated skipper's cabin, allowing owners to configure the layout to their specific cruising or charter needs. Common arrangements typically include a spacious V-berth forward, a well-appointed salon with ample seating for up to eight around the table, a functional galley, and various configurations of aft cabins and heads. While specific details on materials vary, the general impression is one of quality, with a focus on comfortable and practical accommodations suitable for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Oceanis 55 frequently praise its comfortable motion in a seaway, describing the ride as "soft" and akin to a "magic carpet." The yacht is often lauded as a "remarkable" vessel, indicating strong overall satisfaction with its design and performance. The ability to manage such a large yacht with a reduced crew, often just a couple, is a consistently highlighted strength, underscoring its thoughtful engineering and practical deck layout. The spaciousness and luxurious feel of the interior are also highly valued, making it a popular choice for those prioritizing comfort and liveability on extended voyages.