Sun Odyssey 52.2 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The Sun Odyssey 52.2, Farr design #205, began production in 1995. Bruce Farr, a prolific and highly respected yacht designer, founded Farr Yacht Design, a firm known globally for its exceptional racing yacht designs and deep understanding of boat design, construction, and performance. Farr Yacht Design's philosophy often centers on creating performance-oriented vessels, a trait evident in the 52.2, which is described as a "powerful, performance cruiser."

During the mid-1990s, when the 52.2 was introduced, Jeanneau was undergoing significant corporate changes, including its acquisition by Groupe Beneteau in 1995, forming the world's largest sailboat group. Jeanneau's manufacturing ethos, even through these shifts, consistently championed innovation, quality, and a focus on creating "liveable boats" with clever layouts and comfortable amenities. The company also embraced advanced construction techniques, becoming an early adopter of resin infusion molding for its larger models, a process that enhances performance and is more ecologically sound. The Sun Odyssey 52.2, built with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, reflects Jeanneau's commitment to robust construction.

The Sun Odyssey 52.2 was offered with several variations to cater to different sailing needs. While initially available with a shallow fin keel (5.9 ft draft), a deeper keel option (6.56 ft draft) was also available, and a performance option further reduced displacement and offered a deeper draft (7.55 ft). Additionally, a tall rig was an option, providing increased sail area for enhanced performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 52.2 is designed as a performance cruiser, balancing speed with comfort. Her sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 15.24 suggests moderate performance in lighter winds, indicating she's not a light-air specialist but capable enough for comfortable cruising. The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.373 points to a reasonably stiff and stable vessel, able to stand up to a good breeze. With a displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 203.86, she falls into the category of a moderate displacement cruiser, offering a good balance between speed and comfortable motion in a seaway.

Owners and reviewers frequently highlight the 52.2's excellent handling characteristics for a yacht of her size. With her spade rudder and well-balanced rig, she is generally praised for being responsive and predictable. Sail handling is made easier with standard features like a furling genoa and an in-mast furling mainsail, which contribute to the boat's ease of management, even for a smaller crew. The design allows for sheet winches to be located forward, facilitating single-handed sailing with an autopilot. Her robust build and powerful hull make her a capable passage-maker for offshore sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 52.2 is renowned for its spaciousness, flexibility, and luxurious appointments, catering to extended cruising and comfortable living aboard. While specific headroom details are not always available, the overall design prioritizes liveability. The 52.2 was offered with multiple interior layouts, including a popular three-cabin owner's version, and could even be customized to particular requirements, providing flexibility in arrangements and finishing details.

Typical configurations include a forward V-berth cabin, a spacious salon, a well-appointed galley, and multiple aft cabins. Reviews frequently mention the quality construction of the interior, with attention to detail. The layouts often feature a large dining area capable of comfortably seating ten people. The use of high-quality materials and clever design creates a comfortable and elegant living space, making the 52.2 suitable for both private ownership and charter operations, often configured for 10 to 12 berths.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally hold the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 52.2 in high regard, frequently praising her robust construction and suitability for offshore sailing. She remains a popular boat among cruising enthusiasts. Owners often commend the yacht for its comfortable motion in a seaway and its ability to handle various conditions, affirming its reputation as a capable long-distance cruiser. Some owners have noted cosmetic issues with interior cupboards and doors fading due to sun exposure, though the underlying quality of the joinery typically remains excellent. As with any boat of its age, potential buyers are advised to conduct thorough surveys, with discussions in owner forums sometimes addressing general maintenance points common to older vessels.