Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 58 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Pilot Saloon 58 carries forward a successful lineage within Wauquiez's acclaimed Pilot Saloon series, a concept first introduced by Henri Wauquiez over two decades ago. Building on the success of its smaller 48-foot sibling, the 58-footer was launched in 2016, marking its place as a contemporary flagship in the range. Wauquiez's long-standing philosophy, even through various ownership transitions, has consistently centered on exceptional quality, seaworthiness, and timeless design, emphasizing durability and meticulous craftsmanship over mass production.

Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design, the naval architects behind the Pilot Saloon 58, conceived a hull that is described as powerful, well-balanced, and versatile, engineered to confidently navigate challenging sea conditions. The builder offers flexibility in design with two keel options: a standard deep keel with a maximum draft of 7.55 feet (2.30 meters) and a shoal keel variant reducing the draft to 6.89 feet (2.1 meters), catering to different cruising grounds and preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 58 is engineered for capable and comfortable performance across various conditions. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.14, she falls into the category of a fast cruiser, suggesting good performance potential without being overly demanding. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 160.37 indicates a relatively light boat for her substantial 58-foot length overall, further contributing to her lively performance characteristics. While her ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/D) of about 31.4% is on the lower side for a vessel of her size, the concentrated weight of her bulb keel, combined with a powerful hull form, ensures stability and a comfortable motion offshore.

Reviews consistently highlight the Pilot Saloon 58's "high performance" and the ease with which she can be handled, even by a smaller crew. The yacht is equipped with well-sized Andersen winches and a tall mast measuring 72.18 feet from the waterline, facilitating efficient sail management and contributing to the overall quality of her sailing dynamics.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 58 is a hallmark of the brand's commitment to luxury and liveability, reflecting the true "deck saloon concept" where the saloon is positioned on a single level to maximize light and panoramic views. The design prioritizes comfort and brightness, achieved through large hull portholes that flood the interior with natural light.

The layout typically features a spacious and refined interior crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The saloon and galley areas are well-equipped for extended cruising. A generously sized owner's cabin is a key feature, often located aft, complete with ample storage including a lit cabinet, and an en-suite bathroom featuring a separate shower. While specific cabin configurations may vary, the yacht is designed to offer multiple guest cabins, with reports of layouts featuring up to four guest cabins in addition to the owner's suite. The overall interior finish and choice of materials contribute to a feeling of luxury and robust construction, consistent with Wauquiez's reputation for high-grade finishes and an emphasis on owner experience.