Discovery 58 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Discovery 58 aligns perfectly with Discovery Yachts' founding vision, which prioritized the creation of the "perfect bluewater cruiser." As a later model in the shipyard's lineage, following the iconic Discovery 55, the 58 benefited from years of refinement in design and construction aimed at enhancing the experience of short-handed crews on long voyages. Ron Holland, the renowned naval architect behind many of Discovery's successful models, brought his expertise to the 58, focusing on a design that balanced performance with the brand's hallmark comfort and ease of handling. The vessel's production commenced in 2015, building upon Discovery's reputation for robust, composite hull construction. Owners have the flexibility to tailor the yacht to their specific needs, with the Discovery 58 being a semi-custom yacht offering numerous layout options and personalized adjustments, including choices for single or twin helm configurations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Discovery 58 is engineered for capable bluewater performance, balancing comfort with a rewarding sailing experience. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 15.5, she is designed to carry sail efficiently and perform well in a range of conditions, while favoring stability and comfort over extreme light-air speed, which is typical for a serious cruiser. Her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of about 36.7% contributes to a stable and comfortable motion in a seaway, though it suggests a more moderate degree of stiffness compared to boats with significantly higher ballast ratios. Despite her substantial displacement of over 60,000 pounds, the Discovery 58 exhibits a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 169. This relatively low figure for a yacht of her size indicates a well-proportioned hull that is efficient and easily driven for its length, suggesting a more agile performance than a very heavy traditional cruiser. Reviewers have consistently described the Discovery 58 as an exceedingly well-finished and comfortable yacht, explicitly built for serious offshore cruising. While looks and helm feedback are present, the design prioritizes practical concerns such as comfort and a secure motion throughout various sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Discovery 58 is characterized by its spaciousness and the signature deck-saloon design, which provides abundant natural light and excellent panoramic views through large ports and a raised sole. The general interior layout is highly customizable, reflecting its semi-custom nature. Common configurations feature a well-executed galley, often positioned to port aft of the main saloon, with a convenient pass-through to the owner's cabin. The owner's stateroom, frequently located aft, offers generous space. Additional accommodation typically includes a Pullman cabin and double berths forward, providing ample living space for families or multiple guests. The finish quality is consistently high, with examples featuring light oak interiors complemented by ebony inlays, contributing to a luxurious and refined atmosphere. Essential amenities for extended cruising, such as lazarette lockers and a 170-liter freezer, are integrated into the design, underscoring the yacht's long-distance capabilities.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Discovery 58 generally praise its robust construction and high build quality, affirming its status as a yacht designed for demanding offshore conditions. The focus on comfort and meticulous finishing, a hallmark of Discovery Yachts, is frequently highlighted as a major strength, contributing to a pleasant experience during extended voyages. Feedback suggests the yachts are delivered with a high standard of finish, with one owner noting "absolutely no rough edges" following a survey. The brand's emphasis on creating a vessel ideal for couples and families embarking on long-term cruises appears to resonate well with its owners, who value the thoughtful design and capability for extensive self-sufficient voyaging.