Sense 55 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Beneteau Sense 55 debuted in 2012, marking a significant evolution within Beneteau's innovative "Sense" range, which commenced with the Sense 50. The core philosophy behind the Sense line, and particularly the 55, was to create a sailboat that prioritized a closer connection to the water and an enhanced flow between interior and exterior spaces. This vision was brought to life by the esteemed design team of Berret Racoupeau, known for their performance-oriented yet comfortable yachts, and Nauta Design, celebrated for their elegant and contemporary interiors.

During the Sense 55's production run, which continued until around 2016, Beneteau, leveraging its long-standing expertise in fiberglass construction, ensured a robust build quality while embracing design freedoms offered by the material. The shipyard, which spearheaded the fiberglass revolution in the 1960s, focused on efficient production methods to deliver value and reliability. A notable design feature of the Sense 55 includes its unique shallow companionway, which significantly lowers the transition from cockpit to salon, creating a more integrated living space compared to conventional layouts. The model was offered with different keel options, including a shallow draft of approximately 5.91 feet (1.8 meters) and a deeper draft of around 7.71 feet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 56.43 feet and a displacement of 40,917 pounds, the Beneteau Sense 55 presents itself as a substantial cruising yacht. Her design incorporates a fractional sloop rig and twin rudders, features that contribute to her maneuverability and control. The calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 22.07 indicates that the Sense 55 is a relatively powerful sailboat for her displacement, suggesting good performance in lighter air conditions and the ability to maintain speed efficiently. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 287.1 places her firmly in the category of a moderately heavy cruiser, promising a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than an emphasis on extreme racing speeds.

The ballast to displacement ratio for the shallow draft version is approximately 0.296 (using a ballast of 12,125 lbs and displacement of 40,917 lbs). While this figure is not exceptionally high for stiffness, the twin rudder configuration enhances directional stability and control, particularly when heeled. Owners and reviewers often highlight the Sense 55's user-friendly nature and ease of handling, even for shorthanded crews, thanks to well-placed winches and sheet setups. She is designed to be a comfortable and forgiving boat, allowing owners to enjoy long passages without the struggle of managing an overly powerful rig.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau Sense 55 is a testament to its groundbreaking design philosophy, prioritizing open living spaces and a seamless connection with the sea. The layout is significantly influenced by Nauta Design, aiming for an aesthetic inspired by superyachts, resulting in spacious, light-filled interiors. A defining characteristic is the single-level floor plan, which creates a smooth transition from the cockpit into the salon, eliminating the traditional steep companionway steps and blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living areas.

The typical interior arrangement emphasizes comfort and functionality. While specific headroom figures are not consistently published, the design aims for generous vertical space. The salon is often elevated slightly, offering panoramic views through large hull windows. The cabins are designed to feel more like residential bedrooms, contributing to a sense of luxury and livability. Attention is given to the quality of finish and materials, often featuring rich wood trim contrasted with modern fiberglass elements. Storage is typically ample, a crucial consideration for extended cruising, and effective ventilation is achieved through numerous opening ports and hatches, ensuring comfort in various climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Sense 55 frequently praise its overall comfort and user-friendliness, aligning with the boat's design ethos. The innovative "Sense concept" is often cited as offering a distinct and enjoyable "lifestyle at sea," promoting a more relaxed and integrated experience aboard. The emphasis on an owner-focused design, particularly within the luxury segment, resonates well with those seeking a spacious and easily managed yacht for extended cruising or comfortable living aboard. Owners appreciate the simplified movement around the boat, facilitated by the low companionway and single-level living area. While no pervasive common problems are widely reported, owners generally highlight the Sense 55's solid construction and its ability to provide a stable and comfortable platform for sailing adventures.