ocean yachts 55 reviews

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Opinion on Ocean Yachts?

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ASK 100 PEOPLE WHAT THEY THINK ABOUT A 2004 27 FT. BAYLINER AND PROBABLY 1/2 OF THEM WILL SAY THEY HAVE ALWAYS BUILT JUNK.FOR A GUESS OF AT LEAST 6 YEARS BAYLINER HAS BEEN BUILT BUY BRUNSWICK,THE LARGEST BUILDER OF BOATS IN THE WORLD.I THINK BAYLINER STARTED TO FIX A LOT OF THERE PROBLEMS IN THE EARLY 90'S BEFORE BRUNSWICK AND THAT IS WHEN BRUNSWICK BECAME INTERESTED.WE HAD A 23'BAYLINER 1991 OR 2 TROPHY WITH 2 125hp FORCE FOR TWO YEARS IT WAS GREAT AND WE TRADED TO A 25' 94 TROPHY THAT WAS GREAT WE HAD THAT 2 YEARS THEN MOVED UP.MY POINT IN THE VERY BEGINNING OCEAN HAD SOME PROBLEMS,DO YOU THINK THEY JUST LEFT THEM ALONE?? THEY WOULD HAVE BEEN OUT OF BISSNESS YEARS AGO IF THEY DID. THERE ARE A FAIR AMMOUNT OF TOURNEY WINNERS WHO HAVE HAD THEY.AFTER THE MUFF-DIVER SANK PEOPLE USED THAT AS AN EXAMPLE OF OCEAN'S BEING NO GOOD.YET EVERYTHING POINT THAT IT WAS A FREEK LARGE PIECE OF ROPE THAT SANK THEM IN CALM WATER.TH E MUFF-DIVER WAS A 84 OR 86 OCEAN RUN BY ONE OF THE BETTER CAPTAINS OUT OF OC MD. HE BOUGHT ANOTHER SLIGHTLY BIGGER OCEAN AND I THINK HE IS STILL RUNNING IT TODAY.ARE THEY A VIKE NO BUT I DON'T THINK THEY ARE JUNKK EITHER.WE HAVE A FEW OCEAN OWNERS ON HERE AND MAYBE THEY WILL POST ON HERE.  

Oh boy, looks like another doozy, Ok, here is my take on the Ocean Yachts. I will do the glass is half full approach. They have succesfully built boats since 1980, and their customer base for the most part, are repeat buyers. The nitch for these boats is truely out there, not everyone has Viking or Custom boat money. Most of everything you find on an Ocean Yacht, is top of the line components, like motors, interiors, set-ups, etc. They have always been fast, for the most part, comfortable fishing boats. From 1984 to 1992 I have been captain of every model over 42' some off the top of my head, 44' 46' 48' 55' 57' 63' and in 1992 a 42'. I won plenty of times with these boats against the biggest and the best of competition here on the East Coast and Bahamas. So they are serious fishing boats. So with that in mind, if you want to get in the action, at a price you can afford, and compete with the best of them, Ocean Yacht does the job. Have there been problems - yes there have been, I also think Ocean Yachts, for the most part, has stood firmly behind their products, and have worked hard to make themselves better at manufacturing these boats. As with these and all boats, you have to learn and understand the inherent problems an older vessel will have, and deal with them accordingly. I want to finish my post with one last thought, please don't turn this into an Ocean Yacht bashing contest, please. Dr. Mike, a 1990 boat has a lot of water under its bow at this point. My first question would be, how well did the owner of this vessel take care of her? I am sure this vessel will take a repair and be in service another 16 years. Captn Joe [ 01-14-2006, 11:55 AM: Message edited by: Captn Joe ]  

I have run several Ocean yachts over the years and they are sound, well made boats that serve well either fishing or just kickin bacK!  

They are a basic good boat. I've fished one for years, I've also fished Viking, Hatteras, Bertram, Trojan, Post.etc. Ocean is not at the top of the list, but then again, it doesn 't cost like the top of the list.  

Phil from the little debbie runs a 55 Ocean. She's always run smooth as glass when I've been on her.  

This is second hand information, however, I talked with a salvage diver who worked for the coast guard and he said the ONLY (his words) boats he got called in to patch during heavy weather so they could make it back was Ocean Yachts. Apparently he said the hulls woudl split while getting pounded in a good sea. I fished a tournament on a 55 Ocean in 8-12 foot seas when only 4 boats left the dock on day one and it was OK, but they sure are pretty, and quick  

Blisters are not a structural defect, and they are not caused or prevented by the relative structural rigidity of the hull. If you look around, you will find that that most brands (including Bertrams, Blackfins, etc.) have had blister problems on some of their boats. Not every boat, but if you get one that absorbs some water, you gotta get it fixed. Fix it right and it's a one time fix. The best way to avoid unexpected boating expenses is to not have a boat. [ 01-14-2006, 02:22 PM: Message edited by: algillen ]  

Over the past 15 years we have owned 7 Ocean Yachts a 1985 46', 1986 46',1988 48',1989 48',1989 44',1995 48' and currently a 1997 48'. We have never had blisters on any of them. For the money an Ocean Yacht is the best production boat you can buy. You get great accomodations and speed for half the price of a Viking. The ride may not be as good as some other production boats but an Ocean Yacht will always get you home no matter how crappy it gets. [ 01-14-2006, 05:00 PM: Message edited by: ANDY L ]  

I worked for Viking and they use solid glass from the water line down and balsa up past the water line. I think what happened maybe the glass under the water line devolped stress cracks in the glass and water had found it's way to the balsa core like what was said above.That's if they use balsa below the water line.  

Originally posted by algillen: The best way to avoid unexpected boating expenses is to not have a boat. Click to expand...

the fact that ocean yachts are all over the world and found fishing in every big game tourney on the planet speaks for the product. It is not fair to judge an entire company based on one story. maybe they are not for everyone, but stand at the weigh stations next time and count how many come backing down to weigh a fish.  

Although I haven't owned or ridden in one I think they are the perfect combination for the family and fishing trips. I really doubt moving up is in the near future but I would certainly consider Ocean Yachts. They are everywhere, factory is local (for me at least) and the interiors really are sharp. Could be a major plus in selling the wife on a bigger boat. --JK  

Have run a 1985 38 for a few years - solid boat. Yes she has had her fair share of problems; blisters, leaky salon windows... but she has gotten me home every trip. Stop by I'm on E dock Seaview Harbor, come to think about it you may want to wait until April- 5" of snow this morning, and I'll show her off. Don't buy into the flexible flyer crap - old problem. Do your research and feel free to email any questions you have - you will get an honest answer here. Good luck  

I had a 1982-42'. Bought it used in 83. Had that boat from the Bahamas to Newport RI. Been in some heavy weather (up to 18') and never had a problem getting home. I did have a delamination problem on both sides of the keel that came up in 84. Ocean had the boat hauled and sent a couple of guys from the factory to repair at n/c. Never had a problem after that. Had the boat about 8 years. Also never had a blister problem.  

I've only fished on one Ocea Yacht- the Little Debbie - I think she is a beautiful boat!!!!!!!  

I know I guy who owned a early 46 in Tuckerton. He had most of the same problems that were listed here. He sold the boat and always talks about buying another one. He always said though, he got what he paid for. [ 01-15-2006, 03:27 PM: Message edited by: Fishin4ever ]  

We'll have a new 42 Ocean at the AC Boat Show. This is a brand new model for 2006. Come by and take a look first hand. I think most will be impressed. Ask for me when you get there. Brian  

I've fished on a few Oceans they're decent boats far from the top of the list of best boats out there. I did see one sink in I believe it was 1991 it was around 42' 5-7' sea's and it wasn't from hitting anything. I believe the owner boat a Vikeing with the insurance check.  

bEING THE OWNER OF A 55' OCEAN YACHT, AND HAVING THE OPPORTUNITY TO RUN A SLEW OF OTHER BOATS INCLUDING A 47 AND 55 VIKING, THE OCEAN IS AN OUTSTANDING BOAT, DOES RIDE LIKE A VIKING PRETTY DARN CLOSE, BUT THE VIKING HAS HER BEAT IN WEIGHT HANDS DOWN. ABOUT BLISTER PROBLEMS, THE PREVIOUS OWNER OF MY BOAT WAS A FANATIC, HE SAW A FEW BLISTERS STARTING AND HAD THE BOTTOM RE-DONE COMPLETELY. DO I THINK THAT IS A DESIGN FLAW, NO. I NEVER HAD BLISTERS ON MY 1973 36' HATT., BUT I HEARD HORROR STORIES ON OTHER 73' HATTS. I THINK THE BLISTER PROBLEM STEMS FROM AMOUNT OF TIME IN THE WATER, THE PREP THAT WAS TAKEN ON THE GLASS WHEN IT WAS LAYED, WHO LAYED THE GLASS, THE HUMIDITY, THE PREP OR A HOST OF OTHER THINGS. IN THE CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS WE DO ALOT OF FIBERGLASS DECKS, AND MOST DO NOT BLISTER, BUT SOME DO, WHY WHO KNOWS BUT I THINK IT IS USUALLY ATTRIBUTED TO ONE OF THE THINGS I MENTIONED. THE BOTTOM LINE, IS ALL BOATS CAN DELVELOP BLISTERS AND I DON'T THINK A BOTTOM THAT DEVELOPS BLISTERS IS NECESSARILY A BAD BOAT.  

I am the owner and operator of Mega Bite 2, it is a 1979 ocean yachts 40SS. This boat is in the "flexible fyler" time period, and i'll tell ya; WHAT A BUNCH OF BS! The boat is solid as a rock with no blisters and a good design, some of the boats did have some tabbing issues but ocean recalled those ones and were fixed. As far as blisters go, that is purley a matinence thing, if the boat sits in water and the guy uses cheap bottom paint and hasnt put a barrier coat on, that is the reason for the blisters. Ocean is a highly reputable builder started by the long time boat building family the leeks. They have put a great combination of style performance and economy into a sweet package that no ocean yachts owner can deny. About that boat sinking, EVERY BOAT THAT SIZE CAN SINK, AND ACCIDENTS DO HAPPEN. Hope it helped, G.S. Mega Bite 2, Bouns Check, and The Grady  

i heard that in following seas the boat tends to be sloppy? i have seen a few in the yards and it looks like the keel kinda ends and it flattens out from the shaft outlet to the stern. Is that a real concern when the boat slides down a wave face.  

Reel Force - Following sea performance varies by model. Some were better than others. Current models are actually darn good and carry a lot of deadrise to the transom.  

The older Ocean Yachts did have a problem in following seas due to the flat stern but they corrected the problem when they came out with the "New Generation" hulls in 1990. [ 01-22-2006, 11:29 AM: Message edited by: ANDY L ]  

I have fished the canyons in some real crap and had Ocean's right next to me and they handled the seas as well as our boat. I think the rep they have is way over kill and I certainly would not be embrassed to own one. They will get you out and back with the best of the offshore boats in their class and save you quite a bit of money versus the high end battle wagons. I have known some Ocean owners that did have the blister problems and Ocean stood by these customers and repaired the problems even after the boats were over 10 year old. One thing is no new boat is cheap these days and that label pertains to all offshore boats when bought new. I would not put Ocean near the top of my personal list of top end offshore boats but I think you get a lot of boat for your money. I know a whole bunch of charter capts from MD to Florida that would disagree with this but I like Oceans and would fish on one any day. Our new 55 Carolina Custom will cost probably 1 million dollars less than a new Ocean of the comparable size but it takes every bit of almost two years to get one built. Capt John  

Dr. Mike, any boat has it's problems, to give you an idea, some new 48 Vikings have the engines laying on the hull. They are now revising the layout and are raising the engines on about 6 of them as i speak. By the way they were delivered before they found out about the problem. Talk about quality control.  

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Edwards Yacht Sales

• 866.365.0706

1985 Ocean Yachts 55 Super Sport

• Sport Fishing
• Tampa, FL, US

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' Our 1985 Ocean 55 Super Sport combines two essential elements of any modern tournament fisherman speed and beauty. The Three staterooms w/ Three head design made her one of the most popular Ocean Yachts ever. 

She's and Outstanding Fishing Machine and and Excellent live-aboard with all the amenities.  P owered by LOW HOUR  735hp 8V92's, she'll cruise comfortably at 21 knots with a top speed of 27 knots.  

Her features include: 

• Twin 735hp Detroit Diesel 8V92s  ( Port  - 10hrs. SMOH  11/22   &  Starboard - 500 hrs. SMOH  10/13)
• 15KW Protech Generator   ( 1000 hrs.)   
• (3) staterooms are extremely spacious and (3) electric heads with separate showers
• One NEW head (2023) and TWO Refurbished Heads (Dec 2022) 
• Spacious Salon with NEW Carpet and wrap-around leather couch
• Full Updated Galley  w/  NEW LG Refrigerator  and  NEW Force 10 2-Burner Stove  (2021) Microwave & Dishwasher
• (3) 15k BTU MarineAir units w/ New Compressors and Copper  (2021)
• Garmin GPSmap xs Chartplatter and Furuno NAVNet Radar
• Autopilot and full instrumentation
• Custom Fighting Chair
• Rupp Outriggers

The Ocean 55 Super Sport is owned and has been well maintained by a marine professional since 2011,  in turnkey condition.   This  Ocean 55 Super Sport is a must see and the owner is open to all offers.  

Specifications

Descriptions, basic information, dimensions & weight, tank capacities, accommodations.

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• Popular A-plan with 3-staterooms, three heads, and deckhouse galley
• Full galley includes an LG refrigerator (2021) , stainless steel oven w/3-burner cooktop (2021) , microwave and  dishwasher. 
• Main salon with NEW Carpet (2023) is extremely spacious and features a large dinette, a wrap-around leather couch w/storage underneath
• 3-AC units (1-for main salon, 1-for the guest staterooms, & 1-for forward master stateroom
• One NEW Head  (2023) and Two  Refurbished Heads  (Dec 2022)
• Hot water heater
• Entertainment center with TV, stereo, CD player, cassette tape, & VCR
• LG Refrigerator   (2021)
• Force 10 w/3 burner Electric Stove (2021)
• Broan exhaust system  (2021)
• GE Profile Microwave 
• Roper Dishwaher
• Garmin GPSmap Touch Screen  Chartplotter
• Furnuno Radar / GPS Chart Plotter
• Depth Sounder
• DataMarine Navigator
• Robertson AP100DL autopilot
• Ritchie compass
• ICOM IC-M59 marine VHF radio
• Stereo/CD player/ Bose speakers 
• Infinity marine speakers
• Protach 15 KW generator  (1000 Hours)
• Pro Mariner  battery charger (2021)
• Guest Charge Pro  5/5 Charger
• (4)  Group 31 Batteries   (2022 & 2023)
• 50 amp shore power service w/self-reeling cord
• 12-volt ship service
• 110-volt outlets

Twin 735 HP Detroit 8V92's diesel engines    (Port -  10 Hours SMOH )   (Starboard -  492 SMOH )

• Engine synchronizers
• Spare Prop Shaft 
• Drip-less shaft seals
• Oil change system
• Hydraulic steering
• Hydraulic trim tabs
• Halon fire extinguishing system
• Walker airseps
• Murphy gauges to monitor coolant levels
• Automatic electric bilge pumps
• IDEAL Electric windless W/Delta  Quick Set anchor with 140' Chain + 500' Rode
• Transom door
•   5-Large deck hatches w/screens
• Stainless steel railings
• Bait prep station w/sink
• Fresh & saltwater washdown
• Cockpit engine room access
• Rod holders
• Flybridge w/hardtop & 2-captains chairs plus aft Seating

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55 Ocean 1986 Boat For Sale

Asking price: $599,900.

• Yachts for sale
• 55' Ocean

Last updated Feb 21, 2024

55' Ocean 1986

ABSOLUTELY AMAZING IN EVERY WAY!

*** 100k Price Reduction ***

1986 Ocean Yachts 55 Super Sport which underwent a 7-figure plus refit beginning in 2011, including new MAN V12 1300hp engines, gears, interior, fuel tanks, AC systems, electronics, paint, complete tower, and most importantly, a custom engineered running surface which adds 12" of hull thickness at the stern and a ride & performance like no other 55 Ocean in the world.  The list goes on, so call today to see this beautiful vessel.

Denison Yachting is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Jersey Cape Yacht Sales.

Denison Yacht Sales offers the details of this yacht in good faith but can’t guarantee the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of this boat for sale. This yacht for sale is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal from that yacht market without notice. She is offered as a convenience by this yacht broker to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a specific yacht for sale.

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55' Ocean HIGHLIGHTS

• Yacht Details: 55' Ocean 1986
• Location: New Gretna, NJ
• Engines: MAN
• Last Updated: Feb 21, 2024
• Asking Price: $599,900
• Maximum Speed: 40 kn
• Max Draft: 3' 6''

55' Ocean additional information

• Cruising Speed: 30 kn
• Beam: 16' 0''
• Hull Material: Fiberglass
• Fuel Tank: 1 x 1000|gallon
• Fresh Water: 1 x |
• Holding: 1 x |
• Double Berths: 2

Power comes from MAN V12 1300hp D2842 LE 404 turbodiesels which currently show ~820hrs.  HD ZF gears turn 3" shafts with 4 blade props, and a spare set of 5-blades are included. Glendinning controls and synchronizer.  Phasor 20kw marine genset with new Isuzu marine engine ~20hrs.

New Patriot Marine keel and saddle fuel tanks (4 total) hold a combined 1000gal of diesel.  

The functional galley features Sub Zero drawer-style refrigerators and freezers, as well as a 3-burner glass cooktop and microwave.

Step inside the luxurious and spacious salon and it'll be hard to remember this isn't a brand new boat.  Both of the custom leather sofas, straight to starboard and U-shaped to port, offer plenty of comfort and bonus underneath storage.  The matching L-shaped dinette accommodates the crew for snacks and meals, while a massive Sony flat screen TV with Bose audio and DVD keeps everyone entertained.  Down the steps to starboard is a stateroom featuring twin berths and its own head & shower.  To port is a stateroom with a double berth, flatscreen TV with DVD, and its own head/shower.  Hidden in a hallway compartment is a combination clothes washer and dryer.  Moving forward you'll find the large master stateroom with centered queen berth, flatscreen Tv with DVD, more than enough cedar-lined cabinetry, and yet another full head and shower.  A total of 5 AC units keep the climate under control.

The helm of this 55ss is equally as impressive as the rest of the boat.  Besides the FUSION bluetooth audio system with 2000 watts of power, subwoofers, and plenty of speakers both on the bridge and in the cockpit, there are no less than 6 Garmin 10" and 12" MFDs to allow the captain keep tabs on everything.  FLIR, 72mi 6' open array radar, Wesmar 860 scanning sonar, cameras, autopilot, VHF, Humphree automatic tabs, and more.  Custom swivel helm seats as well as crew benches keep everyone comfortable while enjoying the view.  A complete custom enclosure keeps the elements under control, and Aqua-Dex which matches the cockpit allows sure footing.  The custom Oceanview Welding tower with upper station controls also features Lee outriggers and center rigger.

The shining star of this awesome boat is the custom-engineered running surface by renowned designer Steve French of Applied Concepts.  Extensive CAD design went into a one-of-a-kind cap which has been faired into 2/3 of the hull from just rearward of the master stateroom bulkhead.  This completely foam-cored addition added an additional 12" of hull depth at the transom, and besides the inherent floatation allowed for the underwater intakes and massive 3" shafts and props to be tunneled, which translates into greater speed, efficiency, and performance both underway and at rest.  You have to take a sea trial to fully appreciate what it offers.

The cockpit is designed with fishability and comfort in mind.  A custom fighting chair and rocket launcher post take center stage and give options to suit the needs of the fish being sought.  There is ample storage on both sides of the bulkhead, along with a prep station with sink, engine room access, and bait freezer.  A 12" Garmin MFD flush-mounted in the starboard bulkhead wall allows the cockpit crew to view the scene below the surface, and a massive in-floor freezer will keep even the largest of catches fresh.  Rod and gear storage abounds, and Aqua Dex offers sure-footed traction.

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Ocean Yachts 57 Super Sport Review

• By Jay Coyle
• Updated: October 4, 2007

I will never forget that time in the 1970s when a buddy of mine bought one of the first Ocean Yachts. He jumped from a simple, stout 31-foot sportfisherman with a solid pedigree to a 46-footer whose name was not yet familiar. As it turns out, she was faster than just about anything her size and offered uncommon levels of luxury and accommodation-all that, with less horsepower than you would expect and a price that encouraged even the fiscally cautious to move up. Ocean Yachts’ new 57 Super Sport mirrors this proven formula and the company’s skill in applying it.

The key to Ocean Yachts’ success was its early acknowledgement that for those who fish or cruise , speed over ground is an asset. Though lately the herd has caught up in terms of speed, Ocean Yachts has not lost its touch. At 2340 rpm, the pair of 1,300 hp MANs on hull number one delivered a top speed of 36.9 knots in a 3-foot chop off Palm Beach, Florida. This is quite competitive, considering we had a full load of fuel, fishing gear and cruising supplies on board. At 1800 rpm I recorded a speed of 29.5 knots, and the MAN electronics indicated a fuel burn of 76.6 gallons per hour. The 57 can also be more conservatively powered for a top speed of 33 knots. While the MANs rumble a bit at idle speed, they deliver horsepower on demand without hesitation or clouds of black smoke. The 57 rises easily on plane, and she took a bit less than 30 seconds to reach maximum speed. Thanks to Hynautic power steering, she cuts tight turns with a light hand on her wheel. At low speed, she is stable and maneuverable. I recommend the optional trolling valves, particularly for those who chase spindle beaks, as the 57 is a bit peppy at idle.

Her bridge is efficient and comfortable. The pod-style helm from Ocean Yachts is fitted with engine instrumentation under glass, a tournament-style wheel and cast aluminum single-lever controls interfaced with Glendinning electronics. Covered electronics bays are to port and starboard, as are hamper-style cabinets in the console for an electrical sub-panel and a radio. Drop-down panels in the factory hardtop accommodate a radio and electric teaser reels. Tournament-style helm and companion seating provide a comfortable view of the cockpit, and a U-shape lounge area with integral stowage is forward. A rod locker alongside the helm would be handy for tossing a lure to schooling dorado, and the bridge freezer is perfect for preserving them. The 57 is also available with an enclosed bridge and an internal spiral staircase-an $83,500 option that would perhaps appeal more to those who cruise.

The cockpit, which has a full-size fighting chair, complements the tournament theme with soft corners and teak covering boards. There is a gate-style swinging transom door, a transom live well and lockers for deck gear beneath the coaming. Two under-sole fishboxes are fitted with macerators that discharge overboard. Aboard our test boat, one fishbox was rigged with an Eskimo Ice machine, and the other served as a freezer. The bulkhead console has additional refrigeration, a drink box, engineroom access and a tackle center with a sink.

The story of any Ocean Yachts boat would not be complete without mention of naval architect Dave Martin, who has penned each of the company’s models from day one. Martin began his career in 1948 at age 18, when he worked at Egg Harbor . Later, he moved to Pacemaker. When Jack Leek launched Ocean Yachts in 1977, he brought Martin aboard. Today, Ocean Yachts and Martin’s magic formula are in the hands of John E. Leek III.

Martin’s easily driven hull form and his understanding of weight and balance have resulted in designs that consistently meet their performance goals. The 57, too, is designed with higher speeds in mind. Her transom deadrise has been bumped up a bit from that of previous designs to 14 degrees. This allows for finer sections forward (softer ride) and improved performance in following seas. There are two lifting strakes instead of four, and they are spaced farther apart to optimize lift at increased speed. The strakes have a down angle that Martin found relieves suction on the bottom and improves water flow to the propellers . While some designers prefer shallow trim angles (about 3 degrees), Martin feels they are undesirable for running inlets and in following seas. I agree. The 57 has a slight bit of rocker in her bottom and is designed to run at 5 degrees when at speed. Trim tabs are used to adjust the running attitude for different sea conditions.

The 57’s hull and superstructure are built in female tooling. Woven and stitched reinforcements are handlaid with polyester resin. Fiberglass stringers, and marine plywood bulkheads and web frames support the bottom. Divinycell foam coring stiffens the hull sides, exterior decks and superstructure.

Under the cockpit and forward, fuel is carried in aluminum tanks that feed a day tank on centerline in the engineroom. This is a major improvement on the wing-tank arrangement that is common on some Ocean Yachts models. The company has taken heat in this department in the past and seems to have responded effectively. The elimination of wing tanks makes servicing the outboard side of the engines easy. Even with a second generator, the 57 should have room to move around. Considering this and the attention devoted to systems and detailing, the 57’s machinery space is the best I have seen from the builder.

The saloon has an L-shape settee with internal stowage for rods and cruising gear. An open galley area has under-counter refrigeration, and the adjacent dinette is larger than most I’ve found on convertibles this size. The accommodation space benefits from a step in the galley sole. The three-stateroom/three-head arrangement includes a full-beam master suite that tucks neatly beneath the galley and dinette area.

Our test boat, with 1,300 hp MANs, electronics and a long list of options, was $1,574,111. She could be conservatively outfitted, but my bet is most will load her up with electronics and fishing or cruising gear. Whatever you prefer, with the 57 Super Sport you’re bound to come out ahead.

Contact: Ocean Yachts, Inc., (609) 965-4616; www.oceanyachtsinc.com .

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Sailboat Review: Jeanneau Yachts 55

• By Mark Pillsbury
• April 26, 2024

One way to gauge the relative success of a production sailboat is to look at the size of the model’s run: the quantity of hulls sold or the number of years it was offered. After investing in research and development, not to mention tooling and marketing, a company needs to spread those costs over as many boats as possible. To be a winner, a new model should be versatile and appeal to as many buyers as possible. Often, this means multiple layouts and options to meet the needs (and budgets) of private owners and charter companies.

But for the latest sailboat in the Jeanneau Yachts range, the French builder decided to focus primarily on owners. This 55-footer has a layout that borrows concepts more often found on midsize multihulls. There are spacious accommodations for the owner, separate staterooms where guests can come and go without disturbing one another, multiple places to gather or find privacy, and protected spots to navigate and spend time off watch—without having to be down below.

The result is a very different sort of sailboat. In fact, it would be safe to say that Cruising World ’s Boat of the Year judging team had never seen anything quite like it when we arrived for a dockside inspection during the Annapolis Boat Show this past October in Maryland. In the end, we obviously approved of the concept. The Jeanneau Yachts 55 not only earned the title of Best Full-Size Cruiser, but it also it went on to take top honors as the 2024 Boat of the Year .

With so much that’s new and different about the 55, let’s start with what you discover the moment you board using the fold-down swim platform. You then step up to encounter a living/lounging/working area that starts at the transom and stretches forward to take up nearly half the boat’s topsides. The builder calls it a dual-cockpit layout, but that barely begins to describe all that’s going on there.

Two cushioned seating areas—one is U-shaped to starboard, and the other is an upside-down L-shape to port that opens up a walk-through path for boarding—are located across the transom. Each one surrounds a table that can be lowered to create party-size sun lounges. With the boat’s beam of 16 feet, 4 inches, that’s a lot of room to kick back and relax.

Under the port seats, there’s life-raft storage, and between the tables, there’s access to a garage below the deck. It could handle toys, an inflatable or even a Tiwal sailing tender.

Between the lounges and the pair of helm stations located just forward of them, there’s access on either side of the boat to the walk-around side decks that have become a Jeanneau trademark.

A fiberglass cockpit arch rises up just forward of the steering wheels. On the boat we visited in Annapolis, it connected an optional hard spray hood that covered the forward portion of the cockpit and main companionway, and a hard Bimini top (also an option) that protected the aft area. The Bimini had a nifty sliding fabric panel in the middle that could be opened for sun and stars, or shut for shade and rain.

Two more companionways are just under the arch, providing access to two private port and starboard guest staterooms. We’ll get to them in a minute. But first, let’s complete the tour of the topsides.

Tucked up forward, under the rigid spray hood, there is another smaller table to starboard with U-shaped seating around it. Call it a breakfast nook or a fine spot to sit and enjoy a book, no matter the weather outside. It’s opposite a forward-facing navigation desk with a chart plotter. Here, a watchkeeper is protected from the elements but still has a clear view all around.

Much like on a catamaran, there’s a provision for another cushioned lounge area on the broad foredeck, giving guests another place to enjoy the great outdoors.

The 55’s interior accommodations, designed by Andrew Winch, are just as unique as those found topsides. The builder describes the layout as being “owners first.”

I mentioned that two guest staterooms are accessible only from the cockpit. These give the crew (and owners) privacy that’s not possible on a conventional monohull, where all of the staterooms open into the salon.

To port is a VIP stateroom with en suite head and shower, and enough additional space to allow for a small sitting area with a desk or vanity. The starboard guest stateroom, also with en suite head and shower, is a bit smaller because of the location of the galley in the salon, but it still has a double berth. Both staterooms have 6-foot-5-inch headroom.

Stepping down the main companionway and into the salon and master stateroom, the first thought that comes to mind is that it resembles an efficiency or one-bedroom condo in some urban center. In fact, two-thirds of the interior space is intended for those paying the bills. A dining area with L-shaped seating takes up the port side of the salon, with a large-screen television mounted on the forward bulkhead for movie nights.

A galley is opposite, with an island counter amidships, giving the cook a solid place to brace while preparing meals underway.

Ports in the cabin top and hull let in loads of light, and white walls and overhead panels help keep things bright. The boat we sailed had teak-colored Alpi bulkheads and furniture; white oak is another option.

The owner’s stateroom is forward, through double doors. A double berth is offset to port, with lockers and a sitting area to starboard. A spacious head and shower compartment is farther forward.

Depending on how an owner plans to use the boat, the forepeak can be either a sail locker or a crew cabin.

Buyers also have options when it comes to a standard keel (8-foot) or shoal draft foil (6-foot-2-inch), and either a standard in-mast furling rig or a performance spar with full-batten main. The boat we sailed had the former, coupled with a versatile three-headsail sail plan that included a self-tending jib to simplify tacking upwind, an overlapping genoa for light-air days (both with electric furlers), and a downwind sail that’s flown from a continuous-line furler.

For motoring, the 55 is equipped with a 110 hp Yanmar diesel with a shaft drive and a three-blade Flexofold prop—and a bow thruster for close-quarters maneuvering. If I had to pick a nit, it would be engine access, which was through a hatch in the cockpit sole. It seemed adequate enough, though not necessarily convenient.

Loaded up with electronics and options, the price tag on the 55 in Annapolis was right around $1.4 million. That included Jeanneau’s Seanapps system, which provides remote boat monitoring, alerts and maintenance recommendations.

Underway, I found the 55 comfortable. The walk-around decks made it easy and safe to move about, and when I wasn’t doing the sailing, there were numerous places to relax and take in the sights.

When my turn came at the wheel, visibility all around was excellent, and electric winches made trimming sails effortless during singlehanded maneuvers. Steering by hand, you can stand inboard, out of the elements, or step out onto the side deck to feel the breeze in your face as you lean an arm over the stainless-steel life rail that encircles the cockpit.

Our test sail took place on Chesapeake Bay in variable conditions that ranged from nearly no breeze to gusts well into the high teens. Tacking in light air—about 5 knots or less—boatspeed was 3 to 4 knots. Later, reaching in 17- to 20-knot puffs, we trucked along effortlessly at 7-plus knots. Some boats do well in light air; some like big wind. The 55 lit right up in both. No wonder it’s a winner.

Designing Outside the Box

A casual sailor walking the docks at a boat show could be excused for thinking that these days, new boats all look pretty much alike. Sure, “innovations” are introduced annually, but a barbecue grill built into the transom or two cockpit tables instead of one are hardly radical innovations. And chines in the hull? Yup, pretty much everybody’s got ’em too now.

But in fall 2023, there wasn’t any other new sailboat introduced to North America that looked anything like the Jeanneau Yachts 55.

When the concept for the boat began to take shape under the shadow of the pandemic, Erik Stromberg, currently the vice president of power and motor yacht development at Jeanneau, was still a sailboat guy and leader of the design team. Tasked with coming up with a sistership for the Jeanneau Yachts 60 and 65, his logical step might have been to simply scale things down. And in fact, designer Philippe Briand did just that.

But the design team also asked, “What happens if you take a 55-foot boat and design it the way people actually use and live on the boat?” Stromberg says. Answering that question led them down a concurrent conceptual path—still toward a big, elegant cruising yacht, but one with more protection and bigger spaces to live in on deck, not to mention a different approach to staterooms that might not be used all the time.

Briand and interior designer Andrew Winch listened to the ideas and went to work.

Ironically, this owner-focused boat drew inspiration from an earlier Jeanneau model called the Sun Loft 47, a six-stateroom vessel designed strictly for Yacht Week events in Europe, where charterers pack the boat with as many people as possible. To make room for six staterooms belowdecks, the galley and entertaining area on the Sun Loft were moved topsides. With the onset of COVID-19, though, chartering shut down, and demand for the Sun Loft waned.

Stromberg says that so far, Jeanneau has orders for more than 30 of the 55s, and the boat is showing broad appeal in Europe and Asia. Here in the States, two were sold during the show in Annapolis—one to a couple who plans to go cruising with their 10-year-old daughter, and another to a couple on the Great Lakes who want a boat to sail and entertain friends. A third is under consideration by a couple of engineers who want to have their offices on board.

Stromberg says that the yard can build 17 or 18 boats a year, and the production run should fall somewhere in the 60- to 70-boat range. He calls the Yachts 55 an interesting project, the challenge being to stay within the limits of what has to work on a sailboat while still being creative.

“We need to keep innovating,” Stromberg says.

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Jeanneau Yachts 55 review: Thinking outside the box

• Rupert Holmes
• February 28, 2024

Interior accommodation has traditionally been what sells mainstream cruising yachts, but the Jeanneau Yachts 55 ‘monocat’ turns that thinking on its head

Product Overview

Price as reviewed:.

Boatbuilders rarely have the courage to launch a model that represents a radically different way of thinking. Instead, most new yachts are simply variations on established themes with incremental improvements that represent important evolutions over time.

And when testing boats it’s easy to gloss over what it’s like to spend time relaxing on board, whether in harbour or underway in lovely weather. Yet this is a critical factor in the enjoyment owners derive from their boats.

Even with the best natural ventilation, in tropical sun or when the outside temperature rises above 30˚C, the interior of any yacht gets uncomfortably hot. So why have monohull builders and designers continued to expend so much effort on optimising saloon and dining space below decks, rather than focussing on exterior socialising and relaxation spaces?

The Jeanneau Yachts 55 completely reimagines how the main living areas on a yacht intended for use in sunny climes should be configured. All key elements of the main saloon are effectively on deck, sheltered by a big sprayhood and hard top or bimini. It reflects how yachts are actually used, at the same time improving privacy in each of the sleeping cabins and in the owner’s quarters.

In a sense it merely recognises how many people use a boat with decent sun protection: maximising time spent in the cockpit.

While this is not the yard’s first foray into this concept of accommodation arrangement it’s the first model aimed at private owners. It draws on Jeanneau’s experience with the Sun Loft 47 of 2019, which was geared resolutely for the charter market. We got to put a pre production model of the Jeanneau Yachts 55 to the test in Spain last autumn.

A pair of electric winches at each helm station allow for push-button sail handling. Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

Novel layout

The cockpit effectively extends a huge distance forward and has multiple different spaces for different purposes. Right aft is a full-beam flexible area with expansive sunbeds that convert to large tables, creating a space that easily rivals the aft cockpit of multihulls of a similar size. As with flybridge catamarans and motor yachts, cushions are a fast drying type made for use outdoors.

Immediately ahead of this area is the main control centre for the boat, with twin helm and winch stations. These have a pair of Harken electric winches each side, with one having a back-winding facility, and on the test boat all furling and reefing could be done electrically by one person.

The distinctive mainsheet arch is standard on all boats, whether or not the optional solid sprayhood and hard top are specified over the standard fabric components. This has the big benefit of keeping the sheet safely clear of the cockpit, however the standard arrangement doesn’t allow for fine control of sail shape.

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Outboard of the wheels the side decks slope upwards towards the foredeck in a refinement of the ramp first seen on the Sun Odyssey 440 back in 2017. This arrangement works really well on the Jeanneau Yachts 55, giving easy step-free access to the foredeck. It also effectively creates a deep bulwark, with an extra high 36in rail outboard of the winches, making it a safe place for sail handling. There are also lovely deep rope bags here, though longer handrails on the coachroof sides for use when going forward would be beneficial.

The two well appointed ensuite guest cabins are immediately forward of the helm stations. These are accessed from on deck, below the shelter of the hard top, which provides more privacy at night than a conventional arrangement with quarter cabins accessed directly from the saloon. The port is the larger of the two, with more floor area and space for a compact two-seater sofa.

On the downside guests have to descend into the depths of the hull via steep steps, so there’s potential for these cabins to feel claustrophobic, access to the starboard cabin’s heads is awkward, and the galley can only be reached by climbing up into the cockpit, then back down the main companionway.

Side decks slope up to the foredeck, while deep bulwarks make it a safe space to handle sails. Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

The arrangement is great for owner’s privacy, and fine if you have teenage kids, but won’t suit everyone, especially those with children under a certain age.

Ahead of the guest cabins, towards the front of the sprayhood, is a small four-person dinette/coffee table to starboard and a navstation to port.

Both are slightly raised to give a good all-round view and the dinette can be lowered to create yet another day bed. This also makes it a good space to take a nap on short-handed passages, when you might need to be available at short notice.

Equally the navstation is an ideal place from which to con the boat when on watch alone, when the dished seat will help you stay in place when heeled on port tack. It also makes a great place to work using a laptop, as long as the almost all-round view doesn’t prove too much of a distraction. If it does there’s a secluded desk/dressing table in the forward master cabin.

Outdoor living begins at the stern with sunbeds, loungers and dining tables that easily rivals many multihulls for space. Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

Monocat sailing

What about sailing performance? Naval architect Philippe Briand has created a boat with relatively low freeboard and powerful hull sections, plus plenty of form stability that on paper ought to hold its own against other mainstream cruising yachts of similar size.

More often than not, the yachts provided for our tests have the optional deep keel married to a taller rig with a slab reefing mainsail that typically gives 20% or more extra sail area than standard. This enables us to get a good feel for the fundamental qualities of the hull design.

However, the Jeanneau Yachts 55 we tested had the 1.9m shoal draught keel, along with the standard size furling mainsail and self tacking jib, albeit with upgraded sailcloth.

At the same time, the test boat’s displacement was some 3.5 tonnes heavier than standard, thanks to the shoal keel (800kg), plus the solid sprayhood and hard top in place of the standard fabric sprayhood and bimini, a washer-drier, air conditioning and a diesel generator.

Raised dinette and navstation are forward of the mainsheet arch, under the sprayhood. Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

It was difficult to make the furling main set well in the very light airs of my first day on board and, frustratingly, there was neither a Code 0 nor an asymmetric spinnaker on board. On the plus side, my experience is arguably a more realistic reflection of the configuration in which up to 90% of these boats will be ordered.

Many new designs impress with the way they sail in light airs – an important factor for summer cruising in Europe . However, this boat had very little feel or heel until the wind got above 7 knots, when we started making reasonable progress at just over five knots on a close reach, despite the restricted sail area. In only 4-5 knots of breeze we struggled to reach even three knots of boat speed, irrespective of wind angle.

Happily my second day on board produced 10-12 knots of breeze in which we made 5.5 knots close-hauled at a true wind angle of 55º, despite the boat being repeatedly slowed by a swell right on the bow. Bearing away with the true wind just aft of the beam, and that awkward swell on the quarter, we made a consistent 6-7 knots under main and jib.

The boat tracked well in these conditions, despite imperfectly set up steering: there was play, friction and vibration in the system, though we’re told these problems will be resolved on production boats.

Nevertheless, the helm stations are nicely configured, with big comfortable seats and large MFDs each side. There’s also excellent protection from sun, rain and spray, yet you can also steer sitting well outboard on the coaming to get a better view of the headsail luff, although the MFD and instruments are difficult to read from this position.

Dual helms, access to aft cabins and forward lounging area can all be under cover of the long bimini. Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

Are the seating and sunbed arrangements aft viable when there’s more wind and sea? There was much discussion about this at the start of the European Yacht of the Year trials. I sailed with the sunbed on one side, and table with space to seat six to eight people on the other, an arrangement with obvious appeal at anchor or at a boat show.

With seven people on board, in a Force 3-4 breeze and uncomfortable swell, this area aft was favoured over the more sheltered and secure seating further forward, even when close-hauled. In these conditions it felt safe, though in rough weather and high angles of heel it would be a less inviting space, while the width of this area and its proximity to the transom would undoubtedly make it feel insecure.

Given the Jeanneau Yachts 55’s accent on outdoor living, along with Jeanneau’s emphasis that the main below decks accommodation is primarily for owner’s use, it’s surprising they didn’t create a more comprehensive outdoor galley, even if that would inevitably compromise other elements. Instead there’s an optional barbecue that swings out from under one of the aft seats, so you need to stand on the bathing platform to use it, plus an optional fridge drawer under a seat further forward.

Returning to port with a quartering swell the boat rolled enough to make you think why not buy a catamaran instead? There’s a multitude of answers to that question, of course. For example, for anyone who spends a lot of time in the Mediterranean at busy times of the year it’s usually much easier to find a visitor’s berth for a monohull, whether in a chic Ligurian marina or a bustling Greek town quay.

Of course multihull owners may counter that by pointing out that catamarans don’t have a monohull’s tendency to roll in an uncomfortable anchorage and you can often anchor off and dinghy ashore with a decent tender – but that’s not always feasible.

Double doors at the forward end of the saloon/galley lead through to the owner’s suite. Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

Designed for the owners

All the space on deck makes this feel in some ways like a much larger yacht than the overall length might suggest, so descending the companionway is a surprise as it feels small for a 55-footer. But that initial impression misunderstands the whole concept of this boat.

Unlike almost any other yacht, the idea is the main below deck spaces accessed via the companionway will be predominately the preserve of the owners. This highlights how much of a change of mindset is needed to accurately evaluate this boat.

To starboard is a very long and very well appointed galley, and a saloon/dining area with space for six people to port. There’s lots of room to move around here – proportions are those of a smart apartment – though the wide open expanse may present a challenge at sea in rough conditions.

Well appointed linear galley is to starboard. Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

Double doors in the main bulkhead open onto a properly spacious full width owner’s cabin with a wonderfully open feel and the peninsula bed offset to port. To some extent the feeling of space comes at the expense of stowage volumes, but there’s an option to replace the vanity desk here with a big wardrobe, while retaining the small sofa to starboard.

There’s also an excellent almost full width head and shower right forward, but it’s surprising there’s no provision for an easily accessed day head in addition to the three ensuites.

Stowage on deck includes a huge sail locker forward that’s large enough to be fitted out as an optional skipper cabin. There’s also a big lazarette aft, measuring 2.1 x 1.5 x 0.35m, where you might otherwise expect to find a tender garage. This has access from on top, as well as from the bathing platform, making an excellent wet storage area for fenders, watersports toys and so on. There’s also a dedicated liferaft locker.

Optional telescopic davits have a capacity of more than 100kg, sufficient for an aluminium RIB of up to around 3.5m with a tiller-steered outboard. This is arguably a better option than a tender garage, which invariably severely limits the size of dinghy that can be carried without significantly reducing the volume available aft for accommodation.

Port side is the larger of the two guest cabins and has room for a small sofa. Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

An optional retractable gangway to port means access to the water, or to a quay when berthed stern to, is available even when the tender is stowed on the davits and the central transom walkway is therefore not available. The pilot rams and steering gear are accessed through a hatch at the side of the lazarette that’s just wide enough to crawl through, before rotating yourself 90º to the right. This would make it very difficult to access at sea and some will find it difficult even in port.

The standard twin 380lt fresh water tanks are a decent size for a boat with only three double cabins and there’s a high capacity 36lt per minute water pump for near domestic levels of water pressure. However, the 230lt fuel tank is definitely on the small side for the 110hp engine. Engine, generator and other systems are installed in a tunnel between the guest cabins, accessed from cockpit hatches, and therefore nicely separated from the main interior accommodation.

Hull construction is vacuum infused polyester, with solid laminate in the keel area, while the matrix in the bilge that helps spread keel loads is glued in place. The standard of finish generally looks very neat and the interior joinery is well executed. However, integration of the optional hardtop elements with the mainsheet arch and optional solid windscreen are not as slick.

This means there’s a lack of clean lines and continuity in styling terms. From a distance it looks good, but close up there are too many changes of surface level to look really clean, tidy and stylish.

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This model represents a big bet and a bold move for Jeanneau that effectively creates a new type of yacht for private owners. When I first saw it at Düsseldorf in January 2023 I was taken with the concept, and the obvious enthusiasm Philippe Briand and Ignacio Oliva-Velex of renowned interior designers Winch Design have for it. Of course the Jeanneau Yachts 55 won’t suit everyone, and there are many who wouldn’t consider this boat, but it has potential to be a good match for many others. Admittedly the price of the pre-production test boat we sailed was inflated thanks to a very long list of extras. However, there are ways in which it didn’t feel like a $1million yacht, even if some elements such as the owner’s cabin and the expansive seating/sunbed areas aft are very nicely executed. Nevertheless the core idea clearly works well and aspects of it can’t easily be replicated on a multihull. Jeanneau plans to build 15 boats each year, so doesn’t require a huge production run for it to be considered a success. Even though this part of the market tends to be very conservative, 17 Jeanneau Yacht 55s have already been sold and we can surely expect to see more production designs for private boat owners along similar lines in future.

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bclb New Member

Going to get a 55-65 footer. Like the open layout of the OR, but don't have a feel for the reliability, maintainability, durability, or seaworthiness of the OR. Fleming seems to be rock solid on those, but would like to hear comparisons. Marlow not really being considered.

BFOD New Member

My 2 cents - Fleming 55, no place in the engine room, i was in the market for a used Fleming 55 i was very impressed until I saw the engine compartment - GB outdated design unless to buy a new, in the EU used GB has no value anymore. if you need seaworthiness, go see a Nordhavn or Selene. The new Selene 60 explorer will be a game changer. I have seen a Selene 62 year 2009, this is a ship not a boat and you can´t compare with GB or Fleming

olderboater Senior Member

Outer Reef is a great seaworthy and well built boat. I would agree on Selene being good but that wasn't what you asked. Fleming, I'd prefer the 58' or 65' to the 55'. Fleming is unbeatable in terms of quality, although not typically a boat one uses trans-oceanic. I do like that you have a bit extra speed with Fleming. Grand Banks is a completely different type boat as a coastal cruiser. Unfortunately, things came mostly to a halt with them and now the line is being totally revamped and the new Grand Banks 60 is a fantastic boat but it's still a coastal boat, just now one with speed and performance.

PacBlue Senior Member

BFOD said: ↑ My 2 cents - Fleming 55, no place in the engine room, i was in the market for a used Fleming 55 i was very impressed until I saw the engine compartment - GB outdated design unless to buy a new, in the EU used GB has no value anymore. if you need seaworthiness, go see a Nordhavn or Selene. The new Selene 60 explorer will be a game changer. I have seen a Selene 62 year 2009, this is a ship not a boat and you can´t compare with GB or Fleming Click to expand...

mapism Senior Member

bclb said: ↑ would like to hear comparisons Click to expand...

seaworthiness depends on the cruising plans, and this is the first question one has to ask himself. Hours or days offshore. And for maintainability the Fleming 55 is the worst i have ever seen, simply not workable to enter the engine room at sea. This was the only reason i didn´t buy one. Fleming 55 will cruise happily at 10 knots, but yes maximum continuous is 15 knots ... for less than 20 hours. In short, to answer the question, first define your cruising plans.

BFOD said: ↑ In short, to answer the question, first define your cruising plans. Click to expand...

BFOD said: ↑ seaworthiness depends on the cruising plans, and this is the first question one has to ask himself. Hours or days offshore. And for maintainability the Fleming 55 is the worst i have ever seen, simply not workable to enter the engine room at sea. This was the only reason i didn´t buy one. Fleming 55 will cruise happily at 10 knots, but yes maximum continuous is 15 knots ... for less than 20 hours. In short, to answer the question, first define your cruising plans. Click to expand...

leeky Senior Member

The complaint about Fleming engine rooms is their height, or lack of it.

Engine Room Height can come with a trade off in form stability and windage in boats under 60 feet. I like the trade off as the Fleming has an appealing low profile, easy to board and get around and is easy to maneuver in a blow in close quarters.

Slimshady Senior Member

Owned a outereef 73, c 18 , boat is well built and jeff stood behind his boats. When I'm in the market for that style of boat I would buy another. She had lots of room in engine room and systems were well laid out and accessible. The Taiwanese yard builds a solid boat, with good fit and finish. Put 1100 hrs on her in 4 years with no mishaps. Hope this helps.

The complaint about Fleming engine rooms is their height, or lack of it. Click to expand...

PacBlue said: ↑ Engine Room Height can come with a trade off in form stability and windage in boats under 60 feet. I like the trade off as the Fleming has an appealing low profile, easy to board and get around and is easy to maneuver in a blow in close quarters. Click to expand...

Capt Ralph Senior Member

olderboater said: ↑ but also talk to existing and former owners. Click to expand...

bayoubud Senior Member

You might want to add the 54/62 Offshore to consider. Many like them better than the Fleming. Similar design and quality, with less exterior maintenance.

olderboater said: ↑ Fleming does work to keep the air draft on the 55' at 16'. Still, the ER height, while not tall enough for many of us to stand, is very good for a 55' boat and the walkway between the engines quite accommodating. Stabilizers were mentioned and they're fully accessible with nothing in the way. They are intentionally left open. The Outer Reef 58' is not standing height if you're over 6' tall either, with a very similar ER design. One just needs to check for themselves, but also talk to existing and former owners. Click to expand...

maldwin Senior Member

I have never met a Fleming owner who didn’t like his boat. Best, Maldwin

maldwin said: ↑ I have never met a Fleming owner who didn’t like his boat. Best, Maldwin Click to expand...

Kapn Member

BFOD said: ↑ Thx, My remark was about the maintainability and its engine room. Go inside with hot engines, …. you will burn yourself. Try to access – repair the stabilizers or genset, good luck Most Fleming owners have deep pockets, and in general maintainability it is not there problem. Click to expand...

Kapn said: ↑ Stabilizers were uncovered, unlike some motoryachts where they get hidden with cabinetry. Click to expand...

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