55

The hull measures 16.40 metres, the overall length is 17.58 metres and, with a beam of 5.25 metres, this yacht is one of the most spacious in its class. Designer Eric Levet opted for an inverted sheer, a raised deck and a fully sheltered centre cockpit.

The sail plan is decidedly generous. When sailing close-hauled, the sail area ranges from 164 to 169 square metres, whilst the empty weight remains at twenty tonnes thanks to a sandwich-laminate hull. This ratio between sail area, displacement and length puts the 55 at the forefront in virtually every comparison, even in light winds.

Buyers can choose between a fixed keel with a draught of 2.40 metres and a swivel keel with a draught ranging from 1.60 to 4.20 metres. The latter opens up shallow anchorages without the yacht losing any of its upwind performance, as in the deepest position the ballast weight is situated well below the hull.

On board, the layout is particularly striking. The owner’s suite is situated aft, spanning the full beam, and has its own access to a sunken aft deck that serves as a private terrace. Until now, this concept had only been seen on considerably larger yachts. The saloon in the centre is lit by long hull windows and a spacious deckhouse.