Sun Odyssey 49 I (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The Sun Odyssey 49i commenced production in 2009, continuing Jeanneau's legacy of integrating advanced manufacturing techniques and thoughtful design into its cruising line. The 'i' in its designation signifies Jeanneau's adoption of resin infusion molding for the hull, a process that yields a stronger, lighter composite structure, aligning with the builder's ethos of embracing new technologies for enhanced performance and ecological soundness article. Designed by Philippe Briand, the Sun Odyssey 49i's architecture was conceived with the dual goals of "fast cruising with more performance" and "retaining luxurious comfort offshore". Briand's design philosophy for this model also focused on maximizing interior volume, characterized by the hull's relatively flat-bottomed mid-sections.

Jeanneau offered the Sun Odyssey 49i with several keel variations to cater to different sailing preferences and cruising grounds, including standard, shoal, and a deeper performance-oriented keel that extended to 7.71 feet (2.35m). While the model is now out of production, its design elements and construction quality remain a testament to Jeanneau's enduring commitment to crafting "liveable boats" that prioritize both comfort and a rewarding sailing experience article.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sun Odyssey 49i's design translates into a capable and responsive sailing experience. With a total sail area of approximately 994 square feet and a displacement of 27,778 pounds, the sailboat exhibits a relatively high sail area to displacement ratio of around 18.28. This suggests strong performance, particularly in lighter winds, allowing the vessel to power up efficiently. Its displacement-to-length ratio, approximately 161.1, places it on the lighter, more performance-oriented side for a boat of its size, contributing to its nimble handling characteristics.

Despite a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.297, which is on the lower side for a cruiser of this size, owners have reported that the Sun Odyssey 49i performs well in various conditions. It is praised for its ability to handle both light and surprisingly heavy winds, easily reaching speeds of 7-8 knots in moderate breezes. The boat is often described as easy to handle, even for short-handed crews, making it a suitable choice for a variety of sailing endeavors, from coastal cruising to more ambitious offshore passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 49i is celebrated for its spaciousness, comfort, and thoughtful layout, consistent with Jeanneau's focus on creating highly "liveable boats" 3, article. The design prioritizes generous living spaces, which are further enhanced by ample natural light and ventilation provided by numerous opening hatches and expansive side windows.

While specific interior configurations can vary, the Sun Odyssey 49i was offered with multiple cabin layouts, including options for a four-cabin/four-head arrangement, with a flexible forward area that could be converted into a single large cabin. The typical interior usually features a comfortable V-berth forward, a well-appointed salon, a functional galley, and various quarter berths or aft cabins depending on the chosen layout. Jeanneau is known for its quality finishes, often incorporating warm wood trim and durable fiberglass surfaces, which contribute to a pleasant and inviting onboard environment article. The emphasis on clever layouts ensures good storage solutions throughout the vessel, catering to the needs of cruisers on extended voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 49i generally express high satisfaction with the vessel, frequently highlighting its solid construction and comfortable motion at sea. Many commend its ease of handling, especially given its size, making it a manageable boat for cruising couples or families. The boat's performance, particularly its ability to sail effectively in both light and heavier winds, is a commonly praised attribute. While specific common problems are not widely reported in general discussions, the overall sentiment points towards a robust and enjoyable cruising platform that fulfills its design brief of combining performance with luxurious offshore comfort.