Oyster 655 Information, Review, Specs

Conceived by the acclaimed naval architect Rob Humphreys, in collaboration with the Oyster Design Team, the Oyster 655 was engineered to deliver an impeccable performance cruising experience. Her design philosophy centered on blending luxurious amenities with genuine sailing prowess, ensuring she is both a fast yacht and a pleasure to sail.

History and Design

While some sources indicate a debut in 2007, the Oyster 655 commenced series production around 2009. Her creation reflects a significant step forward in Oyster's "G5 generation," incorporating cutting-edge design principles aimed at optimizing both speed and comfort. The hull, like many of Oyster's esteemed models, was crafted by Landamores Yacht Builders, a company with a century-long legacy of British craftsmanship. Landamores served as the "founder builders" for Oyster, instilling their deep-rooted manufacturing ethos of quality craftsmanship and high-spec finish into each vessel, a tradition maintained through their family-run enterprise.

Rob Humphreys' vision for the 655 included a low center of gravity bulb keel, a modern high-aspect spade rudder, and a potent sail plan, all contributing to her exceptional performance. During its production run, Oyster offered various interior layout options to cater to individual owner preferences, along with choices for a sportier rig, allowing for a degree of customization in this semi-custom yacht.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Oyster 655 exhibits an impressive blend of cruising comfort and sailing efficiency, largely attributable to her refined hull shape and balanced rig. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 21.36, she demonstrates excellent potential for performance, particularly in lighter air conditions, ensuring she remains lively and responsive even when the wind is modest. This places her firmly in the category of a performance cruiser, capable of covering significant distances with ease.

Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at around 171.3, further reinforces her position as a lighter, more performance-oriented vessel for her size. This relatively low figure for a yacht of her substantial dimensions suggests a design optimized for speed and efficiency through the water, rather than a heavy, traditional cruiser. While her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.261 is moderate for a performance boat, the use of a lead bulb keel helps maintain a low center of gravity, enhancing stability and ensuring she can stand up to a good breeze. Owners often praise her twin helm configuration, which positions the helmsman optimally for control and visibility, contributing to her reputation as a fast and enjoyable yacht to sail offshore. She is renowned for her solid construction and ability to handle various sea states with a comfortable motion, underscoring her design as a serious blue-water cruiser. The cutter rig configuration further simplifies sail management, breaking down the generous sail area into smaller, more manageable units.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Oyster 655 is characterized by its spaciousness, thoughtful arrangement, and a high level of finish, reflecting Oyster's commitment to luxury and practical liveaboard comfort. The saloon notably maximizes the yacht's generous 18.44-foot beam, often featuring a U-shaped galley to port that creates an inviting and contemporary open-plan living area.

Typical layouts include a lavish owner's cabin aft, often featuring a private head and ample storage, providing a true sanctuary at sea. Forward of the main salon, the yacht usually accommodates a VIP double cabin and additional cabins designed for guests or crew, ensuring privacy and comfort for all on board. A hallmark of Oyster design is the raised saloon with its large windows, which floods the interior with natural light and offers excellent panoramic views, enhancing the sense of space. Interior finishes often feature elegant wood paneling, such as light maple, contributing to a bright and sophisticated ambiance. Overall, the accommodations are designed not just for luxury, but also for functionality during extended passages, with considerable attention paid to storage solutions and natural ventilation.

Owner's Perspectives

Oyster owners, generally, hold a strong affinity for their yachts, frequently citing the solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway as primary strengths. While specific common issues for the 655 are not widely detailed in general forums, the broader sentiment among Oyster owners points to a brand that has consistently fine-tuned its production over decades, resulting in yachts known for their robust build quality and reliability. The community of Oyster owners is vibrant and dedicated, often gathering to celebrate the brand's heritage, reflecting the deep loyalty and passion these distinguished vessels inspire. Owners of the Oyster 655 consistently highlight its ability to combine luxurious liveability with genuine offshore performance, making it a highly desirable yacht for discerning cruisers seeking both comfort and sailing prowess.