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<\/figure>\n\nWith the Oceanis 52, the French shipyard combines generous space, offshore comfort and reassuring seakeeping. Tested off the coast of Barcelona, this 52-foot yacht confirms that long-distance sailing can also be synonymous with pleasure at the helm and a gentle way of life.<\/p>\n\n
Written by : Nicolas Massines – Photos : DR\u00a0<\/p>\n\n
Since 1986, the Beneteau brand has been sailing generations of sailors and sailing enthusiasts with an iconic range name: Oceanis. Four decades after the first model, the 350, Oceanis yachts continue to inspire dreams with the 8th generation, whose flagship, a 52-foot model unveiled at the Cannes Yachting Festival, is available for test sailing in the Catalan waters of Garraf, south of Barcelona. The lines of the Oceanis 52 were designed by Biscontini Yacht Design, also the creator of the brand new First 60, succeeding Berret-Racoupeau, designer of her predecessor, the 51.1. It features a very pronounced bilge, as well as a midship that extends to the transom. This represents a 30% increase in volume compared to the previous flagship of the range.<\/p>\n\n
A very soothing atmosphere<\/p><\/h3>\n\n
This feeling is confirmed once you climb aboard via the fold-up rear seats. The diamond-shaped self-draining cockpit is spacious, bright and offers excellent visibility. Both helm stations have retractable footrests, which are very practical when sailing. Raymarine 12-inch instrumentation, bow thruster, autopilot and winches within easy reach are just some of the features. There are numerous storage lockers, a major indication of the model’s offshore capabilities. The modular tables can be electrically converted into a sun deck, transforming the space into a very large relaxation area surrounded by comfortable C-shaped benches.<\/p>\n\n
As we motor to the sailing area, we observe a good cruising speed of 7 knots at 2,200 rpm and a maximum speed of almost 9 knots at 3,200 rpm. In terms of rigging, the Oceanis 52 comes standard with a furling mainsail and a self-tacking jib. On our test boat, we had a full batten mainsail and a furling genoa (105\u00a0%). The manoeuvres for rigging and hoisting the sails are simplified as much as possible, and the large cockpit space is reassuring with well-defined and separate areas, for winching for example. The passage of the sheets through the deckhouse enhances this feeling. Circulation is excellent, both at the stern and when moving to the bow via the unobstructed gangways. Heading close-hauled in 14-knot winds, with the helmsman firmly seated on the reclining footrest, the boat glides along at 8 knots. The gusty wind demonstrates the Oceanis 52’s ability to avoid excessive heel and undue stress on the helm. Under Code 0, the atmosphere on board is relaxed and enjoyable, as the boat’s reactions are very predictable. At 10 knots on a broad reach, the cockpit serves as a relaxation area, as the living areas (solariums, benches, etc.) are very welcoming while sailing. Very reassuring at the helm, the Oceanis 52 immediately inspires confidence, without ever becoming boring. A boat for enjoying moments on the water, it demonstrates its ability to be manoeuvred by a small crew in a luxurious and secure atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n<\/figure>\n\n