Oyster 485 Information, Review, Specs

The Oyster 485 was in production for a decade, from 1992 to 2002, with thirty-six hulls delivered during that period. It represented an evolution from the earlier Oyster 461, sharing the same hull mold but featuring an extended stern to achieve its greater length. Designed by Holman & Pye, the yacht embodies their philosophy of "moderate proportions," characterized by low freeboard, a gentle sheerline, and balanced ends.

During the 1990s, Oyster Marine, now known as Oyster Yachts, had already established itself as a premier British builder of high-quality cruising yachts. Their manufacturing ethos, evident in the 485, centered on uncompromising strength of construction, meticulous attention to detail, and exquisite craftsmanship, all built using robust fiberglass for the hull and deck. A signature feature that became synonymous with the brand, the deck saloon, was integral to the 485's design, offering panoramic views and abundant natural light below deck.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Oyster 485, with a length overall of just over 48 feet and a waterline length of 37.5 feet, is engineered for comfortable and secure bluewater passages. Her reported sail area of 960 square feet combined with a displacement of 37,550 pounds gives her a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 13.34. This ratio suggests that the 485 is a steady performer, well-suited for comfortable cruising rather than high-performance racing, and likely excels in moderate to stronger breezes rather than light air.

With a ballast of 13,000 pounds, her Ballast to Displacement ratio stands at roughly 34.6%. This moderate ratio indicates a stable and stiff boat, capable of standing up to significant wind and maintaining an upright sailing attitude. Her Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at approximately 317.8, categorizes her as a heavy cruiser, reinforcing her suitability for long-distance cruising where comfort and stability in a seaway are paramount. The yacht's maximum draft of 7.0 feet, coupled with a fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, contributes to her excellent tracking and directional stability. Anecdotal descriptions from reviews highlight her as a sleek and comfortable world cruising yacht, known for good design and solid construction. The calculated hull speed is 8.21 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Oyster 485 is designed for spaciousness, comfort, and liveability, particularly for extended periods at sea. A hallmark of Oyster yachts, the deck saloon with its signature "eyebrow styling," provides exceptional natural light and expansive views, creating an inviting main living area. The yacht typically features a classic three-cabin layout and a center cockpit design.

The layout provides notable privacy, often configured with two well-appointed staterooms located at opposite ends of the boat. The aft owner's stateroom is particularly spacious, frequently boasting an oversized centerline queen berth that enhances the airy feel of the cabin, especially in warmer climates. A significant advantage of the 485 over smaller Oyster models is the inclusion of a separate shower in the owner's head. Amidships, the generous saloon and an open-plan galley contribute to a feeling of openness, offering ample space for dining, socializing, and meal preparation. While specific details on finish quality and materials require on-board inspection, Oyster yachts of this era are generally recognized for their use of high-quality wood trim and robust fiberglass construction.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Oyster 485 frequently commend its solid construction and comfortable motion, particularly in rougher seas, aligning with Oyster's reputation for building robust bluewater cruisers. The yacht is widely regarded as a capable and secure platform for extended voyages and circumnavigations.

However, as with any vessel of its age, some common maintenance areas have been noted by owners. Recurring issues often revolve around the integrity of older systems, including water tightness, stern gear, rigging, and electrical wiring. Leaking issues, possibly stemming from original deck fittings, have also been reported, indicating that re-bedding of hardware may be a common project for new owners. Standing and running rigging, being critical components for safety and performance, are also areas that often require renewal on well-sailed examples. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the collective sentiment among owners typically reflects satisfaction with the Oyster 485's fundamental design, build quality, and its suitability as a luxurious and dependable cruising yacht.