Optio (Wauquiez) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Optio begins in 2013, marking Wauquiez's foray into the day-sailer market, a departure from their traditional focus on larger bluewater cruisers. The design, penned by Berret Racoupeau Yachts Design, aimed to create a vessel that was "sleek, fast, and fun". This new model encapsulated a "concentrate of Wauquiez DNA," reflecting the shipyard's long-standing philosophy of emphasizing durability, high-grade materials, and exceptional craftsmanship through non-industrialized, small-series production.

A defining feature of the Optio's design is its innovative lifting keel, which retracts from a maximum draft of 7.22 feet to a shallow 3.28 feet. This hydraulic "swing keel" or "keel sword" allows the Optio to access shallow creeks and anchorages, greatly enhancing its versatility for coastal exploration and weekend trips. While there is no indication of significant MkI or MkII variations, the lifting keel system is a core component of all Optio models produced until 2022, when production ceased. The ballast, composed of cast iron, weighs approximately 1,984 pounds (900 kg).

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Wauquiez Optio is celebrated for its dynamic sailing characteristics, offering a blend of speed and responsiveness. Reviewers describe the boat as "sleek, fast and fun," indicating a lively performance on the water. Its fractional sloop rig contributes to its ease of handling and upwind prowess. The hull design, coupled with its robust construction, results in a "stiffer boat" that contributes to "even better sailing characteristics".

The inclusion of an electric/hydraulic swing keel significantly impacts the Optio's versatility, enabling shallow-water access for "creek and island-hopping". This feature, combined with a relatively shallow minimum draft, allows the Optio to explore areas inaccessible to deeper-keeled vessels. With a hull speed of 7.11 knots, the Optio is designed to be a spirited performer for its size, offering an engaging experience for day-sailing enthusiasts.

Accommodations and Layout

While primarily designed as a day-sailer and weekender, the Wauquiez Optio offers a thoughtfully arranged interior that maximizes the available space. The internal layout features a "modern, minimalist interior design" intended to enhance the impression of spaciousness. It typically includes a single guest cabin, providing berths for two people, making it suitable for overnight stays or short excursions.

Headroom within the cabin is approximately 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm), which, combined with the minimalist approach, contributes to a more open feel below deck. The interior finish, consistent with Wauquiez's reputation, utilizes high-quality materials, with craftsmanship entirely executed at the Wauquiez shipyard. The Optio provides essential amenities for weekend cruising, including a fuel capacity of 11 gallons and a water capacity of 13 gallons.