Oceanis 55.1 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

As a product of the renowned French builder Beneteau, the Oceanis 55.1 benefits from a long-standing tradition of maritime craftsmanship. Beneteau, which traces its roots back to 1884 in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, has evolved from building robust wooden fishing trawlers to embracing fiberglass construction in the 1960s, a pivotal moment that democratized yachting and paved the way for accessible, well-designed recreational sailboats. The Oceanis 55.1 carries this legacy forward, designed by the accomplished Berret Racoupeau Yacht Design for its naval architecture and featuring elegant interiors by Nauta Design.

History and Design

The Oceanis 55.1 debuted in 2017, representing Beneteau's continuous refinement of its flagship Oceanis cruising line. It builds upon the successful foundation of the Oceanis 55, integrating updated features and design enhancements to optimize both sailing performance and onboard living. The collaboration with Berret Racoupeau Yacht Design for naval architecture underscores Beneteau's commitment to producing yachts with balanced hulls and reliable sailing characteristics. Similarly, the partnership with Nauta Design for the interior emphasizes a focus on contemporary aesthetics, spaciousness, and an abundance of natural light within the living areas.

In line with Beneteau's philosophy of offering versatility, the Oceanis 55.1 was available with variations to suit different sailing needs. While the standard deep draft is 7.55 feet, a shallow keel option was offered, reducing the draft to 6.25 feet and allowing access to shallower anchorages and marinas, expanding its cruising grounds significantly. This adaptability reflects Beneteau's broader manufacturing ethos, which prioritizes efficient production methods and robust build quality to deliver yachts that offer both value and reliability to a wide range of sailors.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau Oceanis 55.1 is engineered to offer a satisfying sailing experience, balancing performance with the comfort expected of a large cruiser. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.85, she is poised to perform well in light to moderate wind conditions, indicating a yacht that can maintain good boat speed even when the breeze is gentle. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 135.31 further classifies her as a relatively light-displacement yacht for her size, suggesting a vessel with a keen turn of speed for a cruiser and the potential for enjoyable passage-making.

The vessel’s ballast-to-displacement ratio, standing at approximately 25%, suggests a design that prioritizes interior volume and comfort. This ratio is somewhat lower than that of more performance-oriented yachts, indicating a potential for a slightly more tender initial feel in stronger winds. However, descriptions often highlight the Oceanis 55.1 as having a "balanced hull" and being "easy to manoeuvre," even with a limited crew. Owners are reported to enjoy "great sensations and safe sailing," suggesting a predictable and confidence-inspiring motion through the water. The option for an Incidence D4 Performance Pack further indicates that Beneteau designed this model with the capability for spirited sailing performance when desired.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau Oceanis 55.1, crafted by Nauta Design, is celebrated for its elegance and emphasis on generous living spaces filled with natural light and air. The design incorporates numerous rectangular portholes and ample volume below deck, creating an open and inviting atmosphere suitable for extended stays and entertaining a full crew during long-range cruising.

Typical interior layouts include a forward master cabin, often featuring an ensuite shower, alongside multiple guest cabins, usually configured as a three-cabin, two-head arrangement. The saloon frequently includes a "meridian" seating area, adding to the comfort and versatility of the living space. The attention to detail extends to the general finish quality and choice of materials, which contribute to a high standard of finish throughout the yacht. The design provides considerable freedom in the choice of interior layouts, fittings, and equipment, allowing owners to customize the space to their preferences.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Oceanis 55.1 generally express appreciation for its blend of comfortable cruising and relatively straightforward handling. Many highlight the yacht's ability to provide "great sensations and safe sailing," making it a popular choice for those looking to embark on significant cruising projects. The comprehensive worldwide dealer network and strong owner community often contribute to a positive ownership experience, providing support and opportunities for shared experiences.

While specific recurrent issues for the Oceanis 55.1 are not widely publicized, general observations about Beneteau sailboats can offer some insight. Common concerns across the brand's models have sometimes included reports of creaking sounds, and in older boats, potential issues like fiberglass cracking or delamination, and deck core rot. However, Beneteau's ongoing commitment to robust construction and efficient production methods generally means these are outliers rather than systemic problems for newer models like the 55.1. Owners typically praise the brand's balance of performance, comfort, and accessible price points, making the Oceanis 55.1 a well-regarded choice in the large cruising yacht market.