Gib'sea Serena 100 Information, Review, Specs

The Gib'Sea Serena 100 emerged from Gibert Marine in 1979, a period when the French builder was establishing itself as a producer of fiberglass sailing yachts focused on cruising comfort and practicality. Founded by Olivier Gibert in partnership with Henri Jeanneau's daughter, Gibert Marine often shared design philosophies with Jeanneau, aiming to create user-friendly vessels. The design of the Serena 100 was entrusted to Jean Berret, a prominent French naval architect whose work contributed significantly to the distinct character of Gib'Sea yachts.

The primary design goal for the Serena 100, aligning with Gibert Marine's broader strategy, was to create a comfortable cruising yacht with ample interior volume. This is evident in its defining feature: the pilothouse with twin steering stations. This configuration offers sailors the flexibility of steering from a protected indoor helm, a significant advantage in inclement weather or during extended passages, while still providing an outdoor option for fair-weather sailing. The hull type is a fin keel monohull, and it features a masthead sloop rig. While some informal references to a "Serena 100 Fifty" exist in forums, these likely refer to the motorsailer-like characteristics conferred by its pilothouse and not necessarily a distinct production variant.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Gib'Sea Serena 100 is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat with a displacement of 9,480 pounds and a waterline length of 26.9 feet. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at approximately 217, places it firmly in the category of a moderate cruiser, balancing seaworthiness with reasonable performance. Calculation However, with a reported sail area of 360 square feet, the Serena 100 is generally considered to be somewhat underpowered. This suggests that while it will perform adequately in moderate to strong breezes, it may struggle for speed in lighter air conditions.

Despite being described as underpowered, the Serena 100 is also noted for being "reasonably stable / stiff." This indicates a hull design and ballast distribution that provide a good degree of initial stability, allowing it to stand up to a breeze without excessive heeling. The fin keel design further contributes to its tracking ability and upwind performance. Its masthead sloop rig offers simplicity in handling, which is a common advantage for cruising yachts, providing a robust sail plan suitable for a variety of conditions. The boat's hull speed is calculated at 6.95 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gib'Sea Serena 100 is designed for comfortable cruising, a hallmark of Gibert Marine's philosophy. The pilothouse is a central feature, offering a protected helm station that provides excellent visibility and shelter from the elements. This design choice significantly enhances the livability and usability of the boat, particularly in less-than-ideal weather.

Inside, the Serena 100 typically features a mahogany interior, creating a warm and traditional atmosphere. Owners can expect a practical layout, often including five berths, designed to maximize comfort and utility for extended stays aboard. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the builder's emphasis on interior volume and the pilothouse structure suggest a reasonably spacious cabin area. The general finish quality aligns with Gib'Sea's reputation for producing robust and practical cruising yachts, which were widely used in the charter trade due to their user-friendly characteristics and durable construction.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Gib'Sea yachts, including the Serena 100, frequently commend their solid construction and comfortable motion, particularly in a seaway. The Serena 100, in particular, benefits from its protected helm within the pilothouse, which is often highlighted as a major strength, providing a secure and comfortable steering position regardless of weather conditions. Its spacious cockpit is also appreciated for its utility and comfort during fair-weather sailing and at anchor.

Furthermore, owners have noted the relative ease of maintenance for the Serena 100, with routine tasks like bottom cleaning and anti-fouling painting being manageable and straightforward. This speaks to the boat's practical design and robust build quality, contributing to its enduring appeal in the second-hand market. While not explicitly mentioned in available owner reviews, the general Gib'Sea legacy suggests that these boats continue to appeal to sailors seeking reliable, comfortable, and practical cruising yachts at an accessible price point.