Bi-Loup 365 Information, Review, Specs

The Bi-Loup 365 emerged as part of Wrighton Yachts' commitment to its signature twin-keel range, with production spanning from 2011 to 2016. Its design was a collaborative effort with Vincent Lebailly Yacht Design, an architectural firm that has maintained a lasting relationship with Wrighton Yachts since 2014, contributing to various models including the closely related Bi-Loup 109 and the Wrighton 36. During this era, Wrighton's manufacturing ethos, established since its founding in 1978, centered on creating popular cruising yachts that prioritized safety, comfort, and the unique benefits of their twin-keel design for family sailing.

The design of the Bi-Loup 365, as noted at its introduction in 2011, featured a more taut superstructure line and an elevated freeboard, aiming to enhance both its aesthetic and its interior volume. This reflects the builder's consistent approach to refining their models while retaining the core principles of the Bi-Loup brand: stability, ease of handling, and the capability to explore shallow waters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bi-Loup 365, with its distinctive twin-keel (biquille) configuration, is designed primarily for comfortable and secure cruising rather than outright racing performance. The twin-keel system is a hallmark of Wrighton Yachts, renowned for providing excellent stability and allowing the boat to safely navigate shallow waters and even sit upright on the seabed when the tide recedes. This feature makes her an exceptionally versatile vessel for exploring tidal coastlines and accessing anchorages inaccessible to deeper-draft boats.

Equipped with a fractional sloop rig, the Bi-Loup 365 likely offers a balanced sail plan, making her manageable for a cruising couple or family. Her single rudder and twin keels contribute to a steady motion and predictable handling, aligning with Wrighton's emphasis on safety and ease of use for family sailing. While specific displacement, ballast, and sail area figures for the Bi-Loup 365 are not readily available to numerically interpret performance ratios, the builder's philosophy consistently points towards a boat that is robust and capable of handling various sea states with comfort and confidence. Powered by a 40 HP Yanmar diesel engine, she also boasts ample auxiliary power for maneuvering and propulsion in calm conditions or when making way to windward against a chop.

Accommodations and Layout

Measuring 36.02 feet overall with a beam of 11.48 feet, the Wrighton Bi-Loup 365 offers a generous interior volume for a vessel of her size. While detailed specifics on the interior layout are not extensively published, the general design philosophy behind Wrighton's Bi-Loup range, particularly models designed by Vincent Lebailly, emphasizes optimizing luminosity and providing generous headroom. The elevated freeboard of the Bi-Loup 365 further contributes to a spacious and bright interior.

Typically, a cruising yacht of this size would feature a conventional layout comprising a forward V-berth cabin, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley, a navigation station, and at least one head compartment. Given Wrighton's focus on family cruising, storage solutions would likely be thoughtfully integrated throughout the cabin. While specific materials are not detailed, Wrighton yachts generally feature robust construction, suggesting durable interior finishes suited for extensive use. The emphasis on luminosity implies ample portlights and deck hatches, contributing to good natural light and ventilation within the living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Wrighton Yachts has cultivated a loyal following over the decades, with owners consistently appreciating the practical advantages and seaworthiness of their twin-keel designs, 5, 7]. The Bi-Loup range, in particular, has fostered a community of enthusiasts who value the brand's commitment to robust construction, comfortable cruising, and the unparalleled ability to navigate shallow waters and dry out in tidal areas, 12]. While specific reviews and common issues pertaining exclusively to the Bi-Loup 365 are not widely documented in publicly accessible forums, the collective sentiment around Wrighton yachts points to a deep satisfaction with their reliable performance and family-friendly features. Owners generally praise the solid build quality and the peace of mind afforded by the twin-keel configuration, which enhances stability and expands cruising possibilities.