Design and Construction
The 519's hull carries an extended hard chine and long waterline that improve stability and speed under both power and sail, and the low-profile deck with inboard shrouds lets crew of all ages move safely around the topsides. A grid laminated into the hull underpins structural integrity, while reinforced partitions between the two aft cabins add soundproofing. The deck itself is a low-profile molding with a 15% positive shear line, creating a sense of volume below despite the modest coach-roof height. Construction is solid fiberglass (GRP), and the L-shaped cast iron keel stays clear of weed and lines. A small bowsprit integrated into the hull's line sets up a light-air Code 0 or asymmetrical spinnaker.
Rig and Handling
The standard sail plan carries a full-batten main with lazy jacks sewn into the lazy bag and a 110% furling genoa, while upgrades move to an in-mast furling main with a performance 140% genoa, self-tacking jib, or Code 0. A single adjustable center backstay drops between the two steering stations, and all sheets lead back to the cockpit and under the combing to genoa self-tailing Harken winches. Double-ended main and jib sheet controls return to the helm, keeping the cockpit tidy. The German main sheet system runs through a wide traveler just forward of the dodger. Twin leather-wrapped wheels with foot braces and standard helm backrest cushions make long watches comfortable, and the starboard primary helm houses bow thruster, windlass, autopilot, compass, navigation screens, and throttle.
Accommodations
Below, the 519 is offered in three to five cabins, with a modular interior that can swap cabin count for a washer/dryer space. The forward owner's cabin holds a queen island berth with sliding window shades, a starboard laptop workstation, and an en suite head whose shower is closed off by a folding plexiglass door. Guest cabins get queen berths and generous stowage. The saloon pairs a U-shaped settee opposite two armchairs, with a standard table on removable aluminum legs that converts to a berth or a deluxe folding table with bottle storage; hinged compartments hide under the settee. A completely even light oak laminate floor removes tripping hazards, and rounded combings with integrated teak rails soften movement below.
The T-shaped galley anchors the accommodation plan, with a central island holding twin stainless sinks and covers that add counter space, a large lift-out waste bin in a dead corner, and exterior plate and cutlery stowage so guests avoid the cook. Top- and side-loading fridge and fridge/freezer units sit alongside a three-burner oven and eye-level microwave, with options for a second fridge, dishwasher, or wine cooler. Four house batteries support the amenities. The aft port settee seat doubles as the rear-facing nav station with chart space.
Equipment and Sail Trim Systems
Beyond the standard Harken winches, the 519 can be specified with the Assisted Sail Trim (AST) system, a Harken–Jeanneau collaboration that eases shorthanded sailing. The base Auto Tacking package trims the headsail through a maneuver while you steer, a push-button control at the helm engages Auto Trim, and an integrated heel control reads gusts and limits heel angle for comfort and safety. A 1500-watt windlass carries the anchor well forward of the gelcoat, and a dedicated sail locker with access steps sits in the foredeck lounge area.
The Verdict
The Sun Odyssey 519 is a thoroughly modern cruising flagship: Briand's chine hull and long waterline deliver stability and passage-making ability, the modular three-to-five cabin layout serves owners and charter alike, and the AST option genuinely lowers the crew burden. She is a large, well-found boat whose details—even floor, tidy cockpit, quiet aft cabins—show considered cruising design.
Pros
- Extended hard chine and long waterline for stability and 200-mile-passage capability
- Modular 3–5 cabin layout with even floors and soundproofed aft partitions
- AST push-button sail trim and auto-tacking for shorthanded crews
- T-shaped galley with island sinks and exterior stowage
Cons
- L-shaped cast iron keel less protected from ground tackle than encapsulated types
- Standard 2.28 m draft limits shallow cruising grounds
