Sailing Yachts

Dufour 560 Grand Large Review – The New Design!

An improvement over the original Grand Large 500, the Grand Large 560 was tweaked just enough to give the new version an edge over the old.

At first glance, I failed to notice most of the differences between the 2 vessels. I think this was likely intentional, so sailors who liked the old design would be lulled into accepting the new design.

My Dufour 560 grand large Review focuses on the subtle improvements made to an already well-made sailing vessel and how successful these changes were following time spent onboard.

Accommodation

The Grand Large 560 can have up to 5 cabins in addition to a small crew cabin on deck. I found that we had more than enough space for everyone onboard and a little leftover.

The head clearance is 6′ 7,” and you can practically do cartwheels in the saloon and galley, but the size of the rooms manages not to overwhelm you. The most significant difference to the cabin layouts is the positioning of the berths, heads, and showers.

As the spacious saloon and galley stay the same, the cabin configurations can change dramatically.

The berths can be a centerline island with head and shower compartments on either side, a berth /head combination located in the bow, an island berth, or a stateroom that can be converted into 2 smaller cabins.

If this still isn’t enough room, I would recommend using the crew cabin for another passenger cabin if you don’t need to hire a skipper.

Interior

Below deck on the 560 is a surprise if you’ve ever spent time aboard yachts where space was minimal. I was instantly struck by how much room there was in the saloon and the galley.

I have rarely had the luxury of moving through a galley without running the risk of bumping into something every time I turned around, but the galley on the 560 afforded me almost as much space as I have in my kitchen at home.

The saloon is set up with a U-shaped settee, a table, an L-shaped settee, and a navigation table. We could stretch out our legs and not have to worry much about invading each other’s space.

This boat is the perfect setting for a big group of people or a bunch of tall people who would normally be cramped and stooped every time they are below deck.

Exterior

The Grand Large 560 has a low profile in the water and gives the impression of sleekness and modernity.

The above deck is sleek and simple in design, with room for 8 people to sit at the twin settees while you skipper the boat yourself or enjoy the view while the hired crew handles everything for you.

The biggest change I found was the accessible crew cabin on deck, which can be repurposed for extra guests if needed. The cockpit also comes equipped with a grill, prep station, and sink so you can perform double duty as a skipper and chef.

Under Sail

Sailing comfortably at 8-10 knots, the 560 rides the surface quietly and cleanly. I was surprised to find that the size of the deck was a little disconcerting when at the wheel, but I adjusted to it quickly enough.

Overall, the vessel responds well to the wheel, tacks easily, does very little healing, and the cockpit is in a prime position to see across the water far and wide.

For a vessel this size, I was pleased with the ease of control I had over it while under sail. I never felt that the boat was taking over at any point, and I give credit to the well-thought-out design of the boat for that characteristic.

Why Sail the Dufour 560 GL

  • Big and roomy
  • Easy to maneuver around on deck while performing essential tasks
  • Many cabins and layout options
  • Performs very well under sail, often averaging 8 knots
  • Ample storage
  • A lot of headroom
  • Controlling the vessel is not a difficult task
  • Can comfortably accommodate at least 10 passengers
  • Design considerations were made down to small details such as cabinet hinges
  • Crew cabin on deck
  • Quiet under sail

In Conclusion

The Dufour 560 Grand Large lives up to its name! It’s grand and large, but not cumbersome or almost plodding as some extra big vessels can feel when you’re in the water.

This is the boat I would live on if I ever gave up my home on dry land!

Charter this vessel if you need to accommodate a large party, you have an exceptionally tall family, or you just want an overabundance of space to enjoy while you sail.

I would probably save this yacht for a special occasion, though. It can certainly spoil even the most jaded sailor!

Specifications

  • LOA: 56ft 3in LWL 49ft 9in
  • BEAM: 16ft 6inn
  • DRAFT: 7ft 2in (shoal); 8ft 2in (std)
  • SAIL AREA: 1,400ft2
  • FUEL/WATER:(GAL) 132/180
  • ENGINE: 110HP Volvo Penta with V-drive
  • Cabins: 3 to 4
  • Berths: 6 to 10

Have you sailed the Dufour 560GL? If so, please, feel free to share your experience in the comment below.

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 469 Boat Review – All About Her!

Sun Odyssey 469 is the latest model to be produced by Jeanneau. This manufacturer is well known for the quality of its design and boats that are swift, attractive, and durable.

My own experience prompted this Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 469 boat review. This boat had the ability to stand out when compared to the other yachts I’ve been fortunate enough to sail aboard in my lifetime.

I was, at turns, thrilled and put at ease by the smoothness of the boat when under sail, and it would be a shame to keep my knowledge of the Sun Odyssey 469 to myself.

Accommodation

The beauty of the accommodations aboard the 469 is that they are functional without being fussy. 3 different layouts are available for the 469, including a 3-cabin plan with 2 heads, another 3-cabin plan with 3 heads, or 4 cabins with 4 heads.

The forward and aft cabins all come with double berths for storage, and there is an attached shower in the main cabin head of any layout design.

Depending on the layout, there will be another shower in the galley and other showers in the heads of the other cabins.

The galley has all the comforts of home with a 2-burner stove, oven, and fridge. A larger oven is available in another layout design, along with a washer and dryer set, a microwave, and a wine cooler to chill bottles.

The layout I chose was the 3 cabin/2 head option, and we found that it more than met our needs, but if you are concerned about accommodating all guests at once, a different layout may be more to your liking.

Interior

Below the deck in the saloon are two large lounge seats that have plenty of space for everyone to sit together for meals, a cup of coffee, or a game of cards.

Between the lounge seats, a pullout table doubles as a bar. Across the saloon are settees that can be secured, so they won’t slide all over the place.

These settees are surrounded by locker space that can be used for storage. Admittedly, I spent a lot of time below deck because it was one of my favorite spots to relax on the boat.

When you charter the 469, you will find yourself making up excuses not to leave the boat either!

Exterior

A twin helm cockpit is just the first aspect of the above deck design that lent itself to the comfort and functionality of the boat. 4 lockers are built in, 1 under each seat, and 2 more under the chart plotter, so anything you made need will be well within reach at all times.

The 469 is also incredibly easy to control and is a short distance from the helm. The 469’s winches are located beneath the panels, but the panels are removable for easier access.

Equipped with a self-tacking jib, anchor rollers, a windlass, and an option for a removable inner forestay, the 469 has every feature imaginable.

All of this put together makes furling, unfurling, and storing the sails a simpler task, which is especially helpful if you have less experience or just don’t want to work too hard while you sail because it is your vacation, after all.

Under Sail

Stable, sturdy, and slick describe the 469 best when it’s under sail. The 469 performs best in a steady wind and will pick up speed quickly while staying level and sailing smoothly over the water.

Only a light touch is needed to control the vessel, as she responds quickly and does not resist the controls. Though capable of even higher speeds, the 469 seems to have found her niche at around 8 knots.

On a good day, we enjoyed long hours of sailing without interruption, but when the wind died down or the direction of the wind wasn’t in our favor, the 469 easily slipped back into the command of the controls.

Why Sail the Odyssey 469

  • Easily controlled
  • Navigates the water, under any conditions, easily and smoothly
  • Functional, well-designed cockpit and helm
  • 3 design layouts to choose from
  • Sturdy construction
  • Very comfortable saloon/galley that can be utilized for planning outings, gathering for meals, or socializing
  • Ample storage space and plenty of deep lockers
  • Gathers impressive speed while under sail

In Conclusion

It is difficult to find fault with the 469. The vessel is classy without being pretentious, but it can hardly be labeled rustic or average. I like the balance of the vessel, both in the literal and figurative sense.

You will find yourself feeling at home right away but will also feel pampered by the quiet elegance of the yacht.

Charter the 469 if you are looking for a home on the water that reminds you of returning to your childhood room after years away with all your clutter removed.

Be sure to get a photograph of you and your guests on deck to show off to the friends who couldn’t be there!

Specifications

  • Length overall: 14.05 m / 46’1″
  • Hull length: 13.65 m / 44’9″
  • Hull beam: 4.49 m / 14’8″
  • Standard keel draught: 2.24 m / 7’4″
  • Fuel capacity: 240 l / 63 US gal
  • Water capacity: 618 l / 163 US gal
  • Engines Yanmar: 54 HP / 40 Kw CE
  • Cabins:3 to 4
  • Berths:6 to 8

Have you already sailed the Sun Odyssey 469? If so, please, feel free to share your experience in the comment below.

Elan 45 Impression Review – What Makes Her So Unique?

The Elan 45 Impression has the distinction of being a boat that embodies a classic style with all the trimmings of the modern conveniences of the newest vessels on the water.

This Elan 45 Impression review will highlight the aspects of the Impression that make this vessel unique while keeping its traditional feel.

The Impression left a lasting impression on me, and I wouldn’t hesitate to board this boat yet again.

Accommodation

The Impression has 4 cabins and 8+2 berths that are designed to take advantage of the simplicity of the vessel while emphasizing the elegance of the below deck of the boat.

I have had friends comment that the boat reminds them of a vessel James Bond may frequent, just on a smaller scale. I’ve always found this comparison close to the mark, if not a bit fanciful.

The cabins can accommodate a tall person, which is a plus, but there is also plenty of space for whatever sized occupant inhabits the cabin. The showers and toilets are situated together in a head in the main cabin and one in the corridor.

The 4 cabin layout is perfect for families, a small group of friends, or just a couple on a getaway. If you are planning to travel in a small group or as a couple, the 4 cabin design is perfect if you have chosen to hire a skipper, as he/she will need a cabin as well.

Always keep in mind that if you plan to hire a skipper, he has to sleep somewhere, so if you are looking at yachts without limited accommodations, you will run into a problem.

Interior

The saloon and galley are divided into separate spaces by the clever use of a sink/counter. The dining area doubles as the chart table, and the dinette can be stored if more space is needed for the saloon.

The entire interior is encased in light wood and cream-colored fabric that make the saloon look modern yet breezy and relaxing.

Room-to-room access is fluid, and you won’t find yourself needing to maneuver around the furniture to enter or exit the galley, saloon, or corridor leading to the cabins.

There is ample storage space, including a hanging locker in the cabins to stow items conveniently.

I found the hanging locker a godsend when unpacking and was not sure where to put certain items that I wouldn’t need on a daily basis but still needed with me.

Exterior

The cockpit on the Impression is one of my favorite cockpit designs. The cockpit is deep, offering better sea spray protection than your average design.

The steering wheels are light and react quickly to commands without you having to fight for control of the vessel.

Further shade and protection are afforded via the retractable bimini. The deck also has plenty of room to spread out if you want to escape the cockpit and enjoy the sunshine.

Under Sail

I sailed in Croatia with a hired skipper, and the experience was excellent. I could sit back and enjoy the boat without having to worry about operating and controlling the boat, but I found myself drawn to the cockpit and learning all that I could about the Impression.

As the wind hits the sails, the strength of the wind and the sails’ ability to harness the wind and propel the entire vessel through the water depends, at least in part, on the positioning of the sails.

As the wind catches the sails, the boat will pick up speed, which is measured in knots. To put it roughly, 10 knots is about equal to 11.5 miles per hour.

However, no amount of explanation can accurately describe what it feels like to sail the Impression, so if you really would like to know, charter this vessel!

Why Sail the Elan 45 Impression

  • Sailing is easy, and the boat performs well out on the water
  • The cockpit is very well protected from water and the sun
  • The design and layout of the boat are simple and straightforward while appearing modern and sleekly elegant
  • A good amount of space to move both above and below the deck
  • Space for a skipper if so desired

 

In Conclusion

The Elan 45 Impression was a dream to sail aboard around Croatia. Our skipper was friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share information and tall tales with us.

My experience was largely colored by my rapport with our skipper, but I don’t think it would have been the same aboard a different vessel.

The Impression made all the difference and created the perfect sailing environment for us. You can sail in Croatia without an Impression, but why would you?

Specifications

  • LOA: 45’0”
  • LWL: 39’4”
  • Beam:13’1”
  • Draft: 6’0”/4’6”
  • Air draft: 64’0”
  • Water: 136/208 gals.
  • Fuel: 70 gals.
  • Engine: 55/75 hp.
  • Sail Area: 1m016 sq. ft

Have you sailed the 45 Impression? If so, feel free to share your experience in the comment below.

Beneteau Oceanis 41 Review – A Real Breeze!

The Beneteau Oceanis 41 was designed for sailing comfort and ease. Several friends of mine sail this boat and rave about the size and stability of this 41 ft. luxury vessel.

I have had the pleasure of being a passenger aboard the 41 my friend sailed, and I was mesmerized by the grandness of every aspect of the boat.

Most impressive of all is that a boat this size can easily be handled by just two people or even one.

Accommodation

The 41 has 3 separate layout designs to choose the layout that will suit your guest configuration best. 2 to 3 cabins and 6 to 6+2 berths are available to make your trip as comfortable as possible.

No matter which layout you choose, there is ample room for storage with several wide berths that can hold swim, diving, or scuba gear. Two of the layout designs feature a single head accessible from one of the cabins or the saloon.

The 2-head option is only available with the 3-cabin layout, with a head in the same location and the other housed in the third cabin.

Despite the enormous cabins, my favorite sections were the galley and saloon areas. I found the L-shaped kitchen cozy and easy to move around in to prepare meals or snacks.

It is fully equipped with a two-burner stove, refrigerator, and a double sink. The saloon, by far, is one of the most comfortable spaces I have ever encountered aboard a yacht.

The saloon is huge, which invites lounging and conversation among the guests, but is still intimate enough for a couple to have a quiet evening together.

Interior

The interior is attractively decked out in mahogany wood and light-colored fabrics, creating a relaxed look that is still elegant.

The windows allow lots of natural light to filter in, and I was surprised by how much sunlight could stream into the galley.

The below deck is so wide and has so much headroom it’s easy to forget where you are and begin to believe that you are in a ritzy hotel room.

Exterior

The cockpit is often where most boats will cut corners to create more space in other areas, but the cockpit and deck of the 41 were not sacrificed in the least.

You can sit on the bench (which doubles storage) with a drink in your hand and watch the sunset, or you could invite other boaters to hop aboard for a beer and some conversation.

Under Sail

The 41 is a breeze (pun intended) to sail under almost any wind conditions. In my opinion, this is an excellent vessel to learn to sail with, but that doesn’t mean I couldn’t imagine a trip on the 41 with a hired skipper.

If you are looking for a romantic escape without the worry of handling a yacht, a skipper is a definite must-have.

Skipper or no skipper, you are looking at smooth sailing with the 41. Its windward performance is stable and strong, and when out in open water, the vessel remains steady.

Comparison Between 41 & 45

A comparison between the 41 and the 45 comes down to small details, as the 2 boats are almost identical. The 45 has more design options than the 41, but the initial layout is the same.

As for comfort, both vessels have plenty of space, but the 41 is cozier and rough waters are less noticeable below the deck of the 41 than in the 45.

The 45 also lags a bit windward when under sail, while the 41 can generally power through without incident.

Why Sail the Oceanis 41

  • Controls and sails are easy to handle and control
  • Lots of space and room for privacy
  • Massive saloon space below the deck
  • The above deck is perfect for entertaining
  • Large cockpit
  • Lots of storage space
  • Performs very well under sail

In Conclusion

The Beneteau Oceanis 41 has always held a special place in my heart. My friends that frequently charter this vessel swear they will never sail another type of yacht.

Even if you want to experience many different yachts, you should include the 41 on your list. It’s so impressive. I would suggest moving it to the top of your list and trying it out as soon as you get the chance!

I never turn down an opportunity to board a 41, even if it’s just an invitation for my husband and me to have a drink with friends.

Specifications

  • LOA: 40ft 7in // LWL 37 ft 1in //
  • BEAM: 13ft 9in
  • DRAFT: 6ft 9in (std); 5ft 1in (shoal)
  • BALLAST: 5,071lb
  • SAIL AREA: 902 ft 2
  • FUEL/WATER/WASTE: (GAL) 53/151/21
  • ENGINE Yanmar: 40h
  • Cabins: 3 to 4
  • Berths: 6 to 10

Have you sailed the Oceanis 41? If so, feel free to share your experience in the comment below.

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