Sun Odyssey 47 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Sun Odyssey 47 began its production run in 1991, part of Jeanneau's popular Sun Odyssey range known for its high-performance cruising characteristics. Designed by Philippe Briand, a key collaborator with Jeanneau since 1977, the yacht embodied the builder's ethos of creating "liveable boats" that balance performance with onboard comfort, 5]. During this era, Jeanneau, having been under the ownership of Bangor Punta and later reverting to French ownership, continued its tradition of embracing new technologies and efficient production techniques, a legacy that began with Henri Jeanneau's initial ventures in fiberglass boat building in the late 1950s.

The design goals for the Sun Odyssey 47 were clearly focused on producing a "swift offshore passage maker" and a comfortable cruiser. While primarily an aft cockpit masthead sloop, Jeanneau also introduced a notable variation: the Sun Odyssey 47 CC (Center Cockpit). This center cockpit version offered a distinct deck and interior arrangement, providing enhanced privacy for the aft cabin, often featuring a very spacious owner's cabin with a private shower room.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 47 boasts design ratios that indicate a versatile and capable sailing performance. With a reported Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of 21.8, she exhibits a robust sail plan relative to her weight, suggesting good performance, especially in lighter air. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at 36.7%, indicating a moderate level of stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up well to a breeze while maintaining a comfortable motion. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of 208.6 places her in the moderate displacement category, signifying a good balance between speed and load-carrying capacity, suitable for serious cruising without being overly heavy.

In terms of handling, the Sun Odyssey 47 is frequently described as an "easy to handle" yacht, providing a comfortable experience even in varied sea states. Reviewers and owners have noted its characteristics as a "high-quality, spacious, comfortable yacht that is easy to handle," reinforcing its design as a reliable cruising vessel. Its design as a "swift offshore passage maker" further underscores its capability for longer voyages and more challenging conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details can vary between individual yachts and their fit-outs, the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 47 is widely recognized for its spacious and comfortable accommodations, a hallmark of Jeanneau's "liveable boats" philosophy, 5]. The generous beam of 14.6 feet allows for ample interior volume. The center cockpit (CC) version is particularly noted for its expansive aft owner's cabin, often featuring a private head with a shower, providing a highly private and luxurious space.

Typical layouts often include a spacious salon, a well-appointed galley, and multiple cabins, making it suitable for families or larger cruising parties. Reports mention variations with up to four cabins, providing flexibility for different cruising needs. The substantial water capacity of 153 gallons further supports extended periods aboard, underscoring its design as a serious cruising yacht. The interior finish generally reflects the quality expected from Jeanneau during this period, often featuring well-crafted wood trim and practical, durable materials designed for life at sea.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 47 frequently commend its robust construction and overall build quality. Anecdotal evidence from a 1992 model suggests excellent build quality, with a high level of finish evident even in less visible areas like lockers. This speaks to Jeanneau's commitment to durability and attention to detail during its manufacturing process.

However, some common maintenance considerations have been noted for Jeanneau models from the production period encompassing the Sun Odyssey 47. Owners on forums have discussed "rudder problems" related to issues with the rubber bush in boats built between 1995 and 2006. While not universal to every boat, this is a point that potential owners might consider during a pre-purchase inspection. Overall, the collective owner sentiment emphasizes the Sun Odyssey 47 as a reliable, comfortable, and capable cruising yacht that holds up well over time.