Bavaria Ocean 47 CC Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Bavaria Ocean 47 CC is built upon a moderate-displacement hull that prioritizes sea-kindliness over raw light-air speed. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the "heavy cruiser" end of the spectrum, the vessel offers a predictable, dampened motion in a seaway, a trait highly valued by offshore sailors. According to technical archives from the designers at J&J Design, the hull features a relatively deep draft (typically around 2.1 meters) and a lead keel, which provides a high ballast ratio and contributes to the boat's stiffness under a full press of sail.

The center-cockpit design places the helm higher and more forward than on aft-cockpit models, providing excellent visibility but occasionally a "drier" yet more exposed feel in heavy weather. Handling is managed via a powerful masthead sloop rig, often equipped with in-mast furling as a standard factory option. While purists may note the performance trade-offs of in-mast furling, the system allows a shorthanded crew to reef the mainsail safely from the cockpit. The boat tracks well upwind thanks to its deep fin keel, though like many center-cockpit cruisers of its size, it may require the use of a bow thruster for confident maneuvering in tight marinas due to its high topsides and windage.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Ocean 47 CC is where the model distinguishes itself from the "Cruiser" series. The centerpiece of the layout is the expansive owner’s aft cabin, which utilizes the volume created by the center-cockpit deck mold to provide a large island berth, dedicated seating, and an ensuite head with a separate shower stall. The passage from the main saloon to the aft cabin typically houses a long, longitudinal galley to port, which is considered an ideal "sea galley" because it allows the cook to brace themselves securely while underway.

The main saloon is finished in rich mahogany veneers, a hallmark of Bavaria Yachts during this era, and features a large U-shaped settee to starboard and a dedicated navigation station. Forward of the mast, the standard configuration usually includes a second guest head and a V-berth, though some custom variations for the Mediterranean market included a bunk-bed cabin to maximize sleeping capacity. Headroom is generous throughout, often exceeding 1.95 meters, making the vessel particularly attractive to taller sailors. While the Ocean 47 CC did not have many direct "sibling" models on the exact same hull, it shared many design cues and construction methods with the Bavaria 42 Ocean, effectively serving as a scaled-up version for those requiring more storage and living space for extended live-aboard service.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• Grid/Matrix Bonding: Like many production boats of this era, the hull is reinforced with an internal fiberglass grid. Buyers should inspect the bond between the hull and this grid, particularly around the keel stub, for any signs of cracking or separation which could indicate a hard grounding.
• Sail-Drive Diaphragm: The Volvo Penta sail-drive unit requires a rubber diaphragm seal. These have a recommended replacement interval (usually every 7 years). If the service history is unclear, this should be a primary inspection point.
• Teak Deck Wear: Many Ocean 47s were delivered with factory-laid teak decks. By this stage in their lifecycle, the teak may be thinning or the caulking may be failing. Because Bavaria used a sandwich construction with a foam core in the decks, any moisture ingress from failing teak must be addressed immediately to prevent delamination.
• Rudder Bearings: The large, high-aspect rudder can put significant stress on the bearings. Check for excessive "play" or movement in the steering system while the boat is hauled out.
• Chainplate Inspection: Given the age and blue-water intent of the vessel, the stainless steel chainplates should be inspected for crevice corrosion, especially where they pass through the deck.

Community & Resources

The most active technical resource for this model is the Bavaria Owners Association, which maintains a robust technical forum and a repository of manuals for older models. Owners also frequently congregate in regional groups, such as the Bavaria Yacht Owners Group, where technical advice on specific systems like the Volvo Penta engines and Selden rigs is shared.

The Verdict

The Bavaria Ocean 47 CC remains a sought-after choice for cruisers looking for a substantial, well-built yacht without the "blue-water tax" associated with brands like Hallberg-Rassy or Oyster. It offers a layout that is nearly unbeatable for a live-aboard couple who prioritize a grand aft stateroom and a safe, enclosed cockpit.

Pros:

• Exceptional owner's aft cabin with true "island berth" comfort.
• Robust construction and higher-grade interior finish compared to later mass-market models.
• Safe and secure longitudinal galley, ideal for passage-making.
• Predictable, stable handling in heavy weather.

Cons:

• High topsides and center-cockpit height increase windage during docking.
• Maintenance-heavy teak decks on many second-hand examples.
• In-mast furling (standard on most) limits light-air performance compared to a fully-battened main.