Amphora (Wauquiez) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Wauquiez Amphora was in production from 1976 to 1981, with 138 units built during that period. She emerged from a shipyard founded by Henri Wauquiez in 1965, who envisioned creating "extraordinary boats" built for a lifetime of sailing, emphasizing durability and meticulous construction. This ethos was deeply ingrained in the Amphora's design and build.

The design of the Amphora was entrusted to Holman & Pye, a British yacht design firm highly respected in the sailing world for their naval architecture. Founded by Kim Holman and Donald Pye in 1960, their philosophy centered on creating capable and well-balanced yachts. The Amphora, like other Wauquiez models of the era, benefited from this partnership, resulting in a design focused on performance, comfort, and, crucially, robust construction, often utilizing solid fiberglass for both hull and deck. While specific design variations (e.g., MkI vs. MkII) for the Amphora are not widely documented, individual boats may exhibit minor customization reflecting their owners' preferences, with some examples featuring a center cockpit layout.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Wauquiez Amphora is designed as a capable cruising yacht, exhibiting characteristics that balance comfort with solid performance. With a reported sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 19.34, she is indicative of a vessel that will perform competently across a range of wind conditions, offering a lively feel in lighter breezes while remaining manageable as the wind builds.

Her ballast to displacement ratio (Ballast/Disp) of around 0.418 points to a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a significant amount of canvas and handling boisterous conditions with confidence. This high ratio contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, reducing excessive heeling. Furthermore, with a displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of approximately 204.45, the Amphora falls into the category of a moderately heavy displacement cruiser. This weight contributes to her solid feel and ability to carry stores for extended voyages, while her fin keel and skeg-hung rudder provide good directional stability and responsive handling. Owners typically describe the Amphora as a well-conceived cruiser that offers a comfortable and "unparalleled sailing experience".

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Wauquiez Amphora is designed for comfortable cruising, often featuring a warm ambiance thanks to light woodwork. Typical layouts provide ample living space, with some configurations noted for offering two large double cabins. The boat generally includes a total of five berths and a dedicated bathroom with a toilet. While specific headroom details are not consistently available, Wauquiez's reputation for refined interiors suggests well-thought-out living spaces. The solid construction and attention to detail extend to the interior, although, as with any vessel of its vintage, some owners note that the interior may require a good overhaul due to age and wear. The presence of a center cockpit in some models significantly enhances the interior volume and often allows for an expansive aft cabin, providing privacy and comfort for longer trips.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Wauquiez Amphora consistently praise its solid construction and robust build quality, highlighting its suitability for extended voyages and long-distance cruising. Many owners express enthusiasm for their boats, reflecting satisfaction with the design's seaworthiness and overall performance. The Amphora is often regarded as a boat capable of making "many long sailing trips". As with many classic yachts, common owner considerations revolve around the age of the vessel. While the underlying structure is lauded for its durability, original fittings and interior finishes may require attention, with some owners noting that the interior might need refurbishment over time. Despite these typical age-related maintenance needs, the collective viewpoint suggests a strong appreciation for the Amphora's cruising capabilities, comfort, and enduring quality.