At the Annapolis sailboat show last week, Beneteau introduced two new models to their Oceanis line, the 47 and 52. The new designs from the Finot Conq design studio represent the eighth generation of the Oceanis brand and both boats share the builder’s emphasis on comfort, ease of sailing and a close relationship with the natural environment.
The 47 replaces the 46 that has been in production for a decade and is one of the builder’s most successful mid-range cruisers. The 46 was and is an excellent example of the three-cabin, two-head cruising configuration and is also a superior sailing boat, with a very handy rig and a better-than-average turn of speed.
So, the new 47 has big sea boots to fill. We have not sailed it yet but rummaging around the new boat gives us a notebook full of positive first impressions.
Starting with the hull design, the 47 has been conceived to offer maximum interior volume combined with an efficient underwater profile to enhance sailing performance. A hard chine runs the length of the hull to provide the volume. But, the chine also ensures a degree of initial stability that will help the boat stand upright when sailing upwind.
The cockpit has a Targa-style arch that supports a dodger and anchors the main sheet which can be the most dangerous piece of running rigging on any aft-cockpit sailboat. All sheets, halyards and control lines run under the deck to line stoppers and winches next to the twin helms so the sailing functions and lounging activities in the cockpit are kept separate.
The stern folds down to make a huge beach-front patio and an aft-facing grill is mounted between the helm seats. At anchor, this will be the hang-out area as the family enjoys swimming and water sports.
The standard layout below has a master suite forward with a centerline, walk-around double berth, hanging lockers and a large head and shower. The quarter cabins aft are spacious and full of light from the hull ports.
The U-shaped galley is well set up for meal preparation while underway, and the dinette is large enough to seat up to eight souls for meals.
Beneteau is offering the 47 in three interior styles created by Nauta Design, the Sunset, Pacific and Ivory. Each designation represents the color of the Alpi-wood veneers and fabrics.
The new 47 takes a well-proven design concept –three cabins, two heads in a sloop that is easy to sail—and refines it in many small ways. As a replacement for the Oceanis 46, it is sure to become a world-wide favorite.
