Beneteau Oceanis 50 oozes luxury and exclusivity

When the iconic French builder Beneteau decided to design Cyclades for charter/cruising, it relieved the Oceanis of the responsibility of filling both roles, thus freeing the designers to redefine the Oceanis as a pure cruiser, which is exactly what they did with the Beneteau Oceanis 50. The focal point for the Oceanis 50 is the sweeping fixed arch just forward of the cockpit. Stylish and contemporary in appearance, the arch is also strong and useful, providing a solid framework for a dodger and a bimini—which, when in place, effectively open up the living area down below. Compared with the old 49, the standard mast is a tad shorter (and “bridge friendly” for the Intracoastal Waterway), but the boom has been extended, contributing to the whopping working sail area of over 1,100 square feet. To control it all, a furling main is standard on the double-spreader Seldén fractional rig; a traditional mainsail is optional. Bennet Racoupeau has seized the Oceanis commission with both hands. The Beneteau Oceanis 50 looks contemporary, while the long waterline helps create massive internal volume, though this boat is narrower than the Cyclades. The sail area/displacement ratio of the Oceanis 50 is appropriate for a modern cruiser and lower than most cruiser racers, but if the breeze gets too light the 100hp Yanmar is there to help.

There are choices to be made in the interior plan, too, the furnishings for which are now rendered in easy-on-the-eyes Alpi mahogany and highlighted by LED internal lighting; LEDs are also used for the navigation lights. Owners can also opt for the double-cabin version, with a spacious stern stateroom, or a triple-cabin model, with twin doubles aft and the owner’s suite stationed in the bow; both come with two heads. The standard version of the Oceanis 50 has three cabins,the owner’s cabin in the bow with en suite bathroom, and two cabins in the stern. The starboard aft cabin has an ensuite with the day head and has more floor area than the port cabin. The galley is a beauty. The twin sinks are mounted against the companionway so the cook has support while standing in the narrow walkway. Power for the Oceanis 50 is a tried-and-true Yanmar 110-horsepower diesel that should last forever, since this is an easily-pushed hull that won’t tax the engine. The power is transmitted through a three-bladed Max prop. The Beneteau Oceanis 50 sails beautifully, is solidly and thoughtfully built, and finished to a high standard.

For further information on the Beneteau Oceanis 50, check “Yacht and Boat” and “Sailing Magazine” Sea Trials.