Four different interior layouts, five rigging plans, three different keel types and a choice of 150 available options out of a 700 possible combinations: a lot of ideas for the new Beneteau Oceanis 51.1, that we will see at the autumn boats shows in Cannes, Southampton and Annapolis.
This is the first cruiser developed under the supervision of Beneteau’s marketing director, Gianguido Girotti: “We capitalized on our experiences with the First and the Figaro, which are boats that are more focused on racing. We brought their values into the heart of a cruising yacht”.
The stepped hull designed by Olivier Racoupeau, extending over a third of the hull, is a major element in the development of the range. The new hull creates also additional interior space without changing the shape of the bottom, essential for a good performance under sail.
The furling mast, self-tailing jib and all the halyards and sheets on the standard model are all brought back to a single winch at each of the helm stations, making her simple and easy to sail. As for harbour manoeuvring, Dock & Go technology simplifies everything.
A SPECIAL VERSION DEDICATED TO “FIRST LOVERS”
To satisfy sailors seeking excellent performance, the designers of the Oceanis 51.1 have created a particularly well-fitted out version, whose name recalls the well-known Beneteau racing yacht.
Fitted with an extra-long carbon or aluminium mast, the Oceanis 51.1 First Line has up to 35% additional sail area in high-tech materials. The boat has a 2.8 m lead bulb keel in this high performance configuration. This reduces weight and hydrodynamic drag. To complete this version, a composite steering wheel, top-of-the-range deck fittings and boomsprit marry speed and cruising.
AN INCREDIBLE AMOUNT OF SPACE
Inside, the owner cabin has an en-suite shower room and toilet, and a 1.6 m wide island bed, worthy of a 55 foot sailing yacht. The aft shower cabins rotate to protect the room from water spray.
The large hull portholes bathe the boat in light and elegantly emphasize the interior design by Nauta Design creating a wonderful atmosphere. A choice of brushed oak or mahogany woodwork ambiances increases the opportunities for customization.