Jouët 550 Information, Review, Specs

The Jouët 550 first entered production in 1979 and continued to be built until 1984, with a total of 154 units launched. This period saw Jouët, a builder with roots in traditional wooden boat construction, fully embracing fiberglass, allowing for more efficient mass production under Yachting France. Jean Berret, known for other successful designs, conceived the Jouët 550 to be easy to handle, safe, and comfortable for small cruising voyages. Its design, which includes an elegant deckhouse encircled by a dark band, has maintained a contemporary appeal despite its introduction over four decades ago. The boat features a fractional sloop rig and a versatile keel/centerboard hull type, allowing for a variable draft from a shallow 0.89 feet for easy beaching or trailering to a maximum of 3.61 feet for enhanced stability and upwind performance. During its production, there were reportedly "standard" and "cruising" versions available, with the latter offering more integrated equipment.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its small stature, the Jouët 550 is characterized as a high-performing and stable sailboat. It is noted for being fast and stiff to sail, providing a spirited experience on the water. The boat's light displacement contributes to its agility and responsive handling. Sailors appreciate its simplicity of maneuverability and its inherent safety, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a reliable and enjoyable small cruiser. The design achieves an excellent balance between performance capabilities and ease of transport, which is a key attribute for a boat of this size often moved by trailer.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its overall length of just over 18 feet, the interior of the Jouët 550 is designed for basic functionality, typical of a micro-cruiser of its era. It is equipped with two berths, providing essential sleeping arrangements for short overnight stays. While specific headroom figures are not commonly cited, the interior is compact, emphasizing practicality over spaciousness. Owners often find creative ways to maximize storage, suggesting a reliance on flexible, textile-based solutions due to limited built-in compartments. The finish quality is generally aligned with the robust, no-frills construction philosophy of Jouët, featuring materials like fiberglass and, historically, potentially original wall carpeting. The layout is focused on providing fundamental amenities for short excursions rather than extensive liveaboard comfort.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jouët 550 frequently praise its solid construction and the seaworthy nature characteristic of Jouët designs. Its reputation for being simple to sail, safe, and comfortable for modest cruises is a recurring positive theme among its community. Many appreciate the Jouët 550 as a "good value for money" option, offering compelling performance and versatility for its price point. The boat is particularly valued for its excellent compromise between sailing performance and the convenience of being transportable. While specific recurring mechanical or structural issues are not widely reported beyond typical wear and tear on older boats, owner discussions suggest that original interior finishes like carpeting might require removal or updating over time. The active community around these classic French micro-cruisers continues to appreciate their enduring appeal for day cruising, overnight stays, and various watersports.