Sense 51 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The Sense 51 is a key model within Beneteau's innovative Sense range, a series that marked a departure from traditional sailboat designs by focusing on a "monomaran" concept. This involved a wider stern and an exceptionally low-profile deck, creating an open aft end and an easier flow between the cockpit and interior. This design philosophy, spearheaded by Berret Racoupeau Yacht Design for the hull and superstructure, aimed to provide new cruising opportunities by enhancing accessibility and fostering a closer connection to the water. Beneteau, with its long history rooted in pragmatic boatbuilding and a pivotal transition to fiberglass in the 1960s, embraced this innovative approach, balancing performance and comfort while maintaining efficient production methods and robust build quality. Nauta Design, responsible for the interior, paid meticulous attention to details and finishes, contributing to the Sense range's reputation for elegant and contemporary styling. While specific variations like MkI or MkII models are not widely documented for the Sense 51, the option of a furling mainsail, while convenient, is noted to result in a slightly smaller sail area compared to a full-batten configuration.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau Sense 51 offers a solid blend of comfort and speed, providing satisfying performance for a cruising yacht of her size. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 19.08, she possesses generous sail area relative to her weight, suggesting good light-air performance for a cruiser. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 156.1 indicates a moderately light displacement for her nearly 46.1-foot waterline, contributing to her ability to achieve good speeds at sea.

The design features a plumb bow and a wide stern, which contribute significantly to form stability and interior volume. While her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 25.5% is on the lower side for a monohull, the wide hull form provides inherent stability, allowing her to stand up to wind effectively. Reviews consistently praise the Sense 51 for being well-balanced under sail and highly maneuverable, even for short-handed sailing. This makes her an inspiring and confidence-building vessel for cruising couples. She is noted for her outstanding seakeeping abilities, providing a sturdy and steadfast feel that inspires confidence even in challenging conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The Beneteau Sense 51 excels in providing top-class comfort and a spacious, innovative interior layout. A hallmark of the Sense series is its unique low companionway, featuring just three natural steps that seamlessly link the exterior cockpit and the interior living spaces, enhancing the sense of openness and accessibility. The interior design, by Nauta Design, aims to create a luxurious and contemporary ambiance.

While specific details on every cabin are not exhaustive in general reviews, the Sense line is known for its open-plan interiors and cabins designed to resemble comfortable bedrooms, suggesting ample volume and thoughtful use of space. The galley is typically arranged in a two-part configuration, featuring amenities like an electric Eno grill to starboard and a sink to port. The overall finish quality and choice of materials contribute to a feeling of luxury, providing a comfortable environment for long voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Sense 51 generally express positive sentiments, noting the boat's overall well-regarded design and construction. The Sense series, including the 51, has been subject to continuous refinement based on owner feedback, indicating Beneteau's commitment to addressing user needs and enhancing the ownership experience. While specific recurring issues are not prominently highlighted in widely available reviews, the overall impression is one of a comfortable, capable, and well-designed cruising yacht that inspires confidence even among those who prefer to cruise shorthanded. The strong sense of community among Beneteau owners further supports a positive ownership experience.