Ocean 49 (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Westerly Ocean 49 entered production in 1993, emerging from the sheds of Westerly Marine Ltd. in the UK, a distinct entity from the American custom builder, Westerly Marine Inc., based in California. The design was the work of the prolific Ed Dubois, a naval architect celebrated for crafting yachts that harmoniously blend aesthetic appeal with cutting-edge design and practical seaworthiness. Dubois's philosophy often centered on creating high-performance yachts that were simultaneously comfortable and robust cruisers, a vision clearly embodied in the Ocean 49. The vessel was primarily offered as a masthead sloop, equipped with furling main, genoa, and staysail rigs to facilitate easy handling by a small crew. While the standard Ocean 49 was a successful production model, a unique, slightly longer variant, the Ocean 490, was introduced at the 1993 London Boat Show, offering four different internal layout options, though only one unit of this specific model was ultimately built.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westerly Ocean 49's design ratios underscore its intended purpose as a sturdy and capable cruiser. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.40, the Ocean 49 exhibits significant stiffness, enabling her to stand up to a considerable amount of wind and maintain an upright position in a seaway. This high ratio contributes directly to a stable and comfortable motion, a highly desirable trait for offshore sailing. Her displacement-to-length ratio, around 173, places her in the lighter, more performance-oriented category for a boat of her size, suggesting a responsive feel without sacrificing her cruising capabilities. The sail area-to-displacement ratio, calculated at approximately 21.8, indicates a powerful sail plan for her displacement, hinting at respectable performance in lighter air conditions while still providing ample power for blue-water passages.

Anecdotal evidence from owners often describes the Ocean 49 as a "solid seagoing long-distance cruiser" with "powerful, safe and super stable performance". The sloop rig, often equipped with furling systems for the main, genoa, and staysail, contributes to her reputation for being "easily handled by 2 people," making her a practical choice for couples or short-handed crews. While one source suggests she is "moderately comfortable in a seaway, but not very comfortable", the overwhelming sentiment from owners highlights her robust and stable characteristics, positioning her as a dependable vessel in various sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Westerly Ocean 49 is designed to offer spacious and comfortable living, befitting a yacht intended for extended cruising and liveaboard potential. Upon stepping below, one is greeted by a "spacious saloon for comfortable dining and relaxation," capable of accommodating a large gathering around a substantial dining area, reportedly seating up to ten people. The galley is thoughtfully positioned, providing ample counter space and often featuring back support for secure cooking while underway.

Accommodations typically include a forward guest cabin with a double berth, alongside a midship bunk cabin, providing versatile sleeping arrangements. A dedicated midship shower and toilet facility serve these cabins. Further aft, the owner's cabin, often situated as a generous aft cabin in a center-cockpit configuration, offers privacy and comfort. The finish quality often features beautiful teak laid decks and a well-appointed cockpit, reflecting a commitment to traditional marine craftsmanship and durability. While specific headroom figures are not readily available, the overall impression is one of generous volume and practical, well-conceived living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly Ocean 49 frequently express high satisfaction with their vessels, consistently praising the solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway. The yacht is widely regarded as a true "blue water ocean cruiser," capable of handling demanding conditions with confidence and safety. Many owners highlight her "super stable performance" and the ease with which she can be handled, even with a small crew, due to her well-engineered sail plan and features like bow thrusters for improved maneuverability in port. The presence of an active Westerly Owners Association also points to a supportive community where owners can share experiences and advice. While individual preferences vary, the collective sentiment underscores the Ocean 49's reputation as a reliable, comfortable, and capable yacht for those aspiring to serious offshore cruising.