After the recent launches of the Jeanneau Yachts 60 in 2021 and new flagship 65 this year, the line will once again be renewed with the launch of the Jeanneau Yachts 55, which will be revealed at Boot Düsseldorf in January 2023. Like the 60 and 65, the new 17m model with a 5m beam features design by French naval architect Philippe Briand and an interior by London-based Winch Design.
Born 20 years ago, the Jeanneau Yachts line has always been dedicated to owners who love the open waters and are seeking excellence in cruising and instinctive handling for complete peace of mind while sailing offshore. The Jeanneau Yachts 55 offers a fresh look. This sailboat of 17 metres in length benefits from a clever and unprecedented layout, incredibly turned toward the exterior and designed for the well-being and privacy of the owner.
The aft cockpit is entirely dedicated to relaxation, with lounge areas aft on each side, one U-shaped and one L-shaped, including tables and bench seating that convert into a full-beam sunbed. There’s also a large retractable hydraulic swim platform.
The forward cockpit, dedicated to handling, features twin steering wheels and winches within easy reach. This space, which can be entirely covered by a hard top, is equipped with an exterior chart table and protected by a wide windscreen. There’s also private access to the two guest cabins, as well as the main companionway to enter the saloon and owner’s suite.
The flush deck features integrated wraparound side decks, which are slightly inclined and facilitate movement around the perimeter of the cockpit. For long offshore cruises, in addition to a wraparound windscreen, Jeanneau has offered a hard top – with the option of solar panels – that fully encloses the forward helm and a bimini to shelter the aft living space.
To starboard, a large galley faces the L-shaped saloon. Forward is the generous owner’s cabin equipped with a large berth to the port side, multiple storage compartments and a dressing table. An optional skipper cabin can be added forward of the en-suite bathroom.
Aft, the two guest cabins with private access from the deck each have a double berth and en-suite bathroom. Cabins are appointed with fine woodwork in light oak (or teak) and dark floorboards (or light). Details include leather-wrapped door handles, wood by Alpi, a refined door design, ceiling treatment and indirect lighting in the owner’s cabin and saloon
The hull has a draught of 2.45m (or 1.95m with a shallow draught) and a choice of two riggings: classic or with a furling mast. Owners can also choose between a self-tacking jib or a classic genoa. A code 3, for crosswinds of between 15-20 knots of true wind, can be secured on the bowsprit, while a bow thruster and stern thruster can help short-handed manoeuvres.
Truly a distillation of Jeanneau’s savoir-faire, and benefiting from the heritage of the brand, the Jeanneau Yachts 55 is the epitome of Jeanneau Yachts owners’ wildest dreams.
For more yacht reads, click here.