Last September, I had the opportunity to spend the whole day with the Beneteau team in Newport Rhode Island aboard the all new Oceanis 46.1. I’ve heard so many times, “Beneteau sure got it right.” This time with cherries on top!! This is truly an amazing yacht, far beyond anything Beneteau has done to date and as a world leader in technology and design by Pascal Conq and Nauta Design. Multiple choices of layouts, beautiful interior wood selections and innovative rigging designs make this an easy and really fun boat to sail, and she is fast.
Starting in the cockpit, all the rigging is brought aft so the helmsman can trim the sails with electric winches, without leaving the wheel. This allows guests to enjoy the ride without interruptions. The cockpit table has two leaves that allow seating for six or more for cocktails and dinner under a blue sky. The swim platform drops allowing easy egress for swimming, dinghy boarding or sunning.
As we move to the cabin the first thing you’ll notice is the bright, open and airy feeling below. The wood is either Oak or Mahogany Alpi with plenty of opening port lights, and she is very comfortable. The floors are a laminate parquet with additional storage under the listing floorboards. Three, four or five staterooms are available. Two or three heads add to the comfort and flexibility of this awesome yacht. The galley is huge with all the appliances one could want. Cocktails and dinner? You bet!
OK, back to the most important feature, how she sails. In 8 knots of wind we easily sailed her to 6.5 knots, easily. Tacking or jibing is a snap and the folks we took out on this day all had one thing in common, big smiles at how easy and simple she is. Docking? Probably the most stressful moment for any captain, but the twin rudders and a bow thruster even a caveman could do it. So whether you’re living aboard or cruising the bay or crossing the ocean the Oceanis 46.1 does it in style with plenty of options and choices to make her yours.
You can check out more of the Oceanis specs here, and if you feel like this could be the boat for you, give us a call at Cape Yachts today. We are here to help you find the right boat for you and your family. The Oceanis 46.1 may just be the one you've been looking for.