Arcoa 520 Sailboats for Sale

Hull Type

Monohull · fin

Rig

Fractional Sloop

LOA

17.06' · 5.2 m

Disp.

1,102 lbs · 500 kg

First year

1958

Originally launched in 1958, the Arcoa 520 is a legendary French pocket cruiser and utility launch that has achieved nearmythic status along the Atlantic coast of France, particularly within the shallow tidal waters of the Bassin d’Arcachon. Built by the celebrated Arcoa shipyard—an acronymic evolution of Arcachon and Couach—the vessel was envisioned as a classic "pêchepromenade" (fishingpleasure dayboat) designed for relaxed coastal exploration and fishing. The yard’s close ties to the marine engine pioneer Guy Couach meant that the 520 was conceived from the keel up around the reliability of an inboard powerplant. Lovingly referred to by French traditionalists as a "promènecouillons" (a local term of endearment for slow, gentle pleasureboating craft that do not kick up a wake in crowded channels), the Arcoa 520 remains a testament to midcentury European maritime design, effortlessly blending utility with undeniable coastal charm.