Spotlight: Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 60
Further pushing sailing yachts away from the vessels of old, the new offering from Beneteau ticks a lot of boxes
Thinking of the ocean-faring voyages of yesteryear can produce a shudder. Cramped quarters, months on end at sea, dried food, a lack of facilities, at times it’s a wonder how any headed for the horizon at all.
Luckily, the advances we’ve experienced elsewhere have accompanied us onto the water, allowing the challenge of sailing to be offset by luxuries of home. A brand specialising in this mix is Beneteau, and they have a new offering in the form of the Oceanis Yacht 60.
Measuring in at 18m (62ft), the new 60 is a bluewater yacht aimed squarely at ocean-cruising. Designed by Robert Biscontini and Lorenzo Argento, the 60 features a huge cockpit with two helm stations to help a skipper control the boat’s heading. To be able to do so in all weather, an innovative bimini is supported by the mainsail arch, and provides an adjustable amount of cover — something that will be popular with the captain and with guests enjoying the tables and seating here.
At the stern, a large bathing platform allows easy access to a tender garage capable of housing a 2.8m jet-propelled tender.
Heading down below, there’s nothing here to remind adventurers of the sleeping quarters of old. Space and light abounds, with a gally positioned mid-ship — a fridge and storage is to port, while an oven, sink and dishwasher is to starboard. A saloon layout, meanwhile, gives plenty of space for socialising with both a table and seating, and a separate lounge waiting to be enjoyed.
Available in a three-cabin version, the master cabin is found in the bow while the two guest cabins lie at the stern. Three heads also ensure there’ll never be a line.
Suddenly, heading for the horizon seems that little bit more appealing.
QUICK SPECS
Price POA
LOA 18.8m (61ft 8in)
Beam 5.3m (17ft 5in)
Draft 2.65m (8ft 4in) (standard)
Mainsail 77sqm (in-furling mast), 98sqm (classic mast)
Water 800L
Fuel 500L
For more Beneteau Oceanis vessels head here, or contact your local dealer:
- Queensland: Spirit Marine
- New South Wales: Flagstaff
- Victoria: Sundance Marine
- south Australia: Southern Cross Marine Australia
- Western Australia: Mansfield Marine