The shortlist for the European Yacht of the Year awards 2016 has been announced. Here is an introduction to each of the 25 yachts nominated, before we set about testing them this autumn
FAMILY CRUISERS
The latest Dufour launch is another looker by Umberto Felci. She takes inspiration from Dufour’s 500 and 560 – so think flat coach roof with plenty of Med-style lounging space and an exterior galley with barbecue, sink and freezer concealed below the aft deck seats. The fixed bowsprit and self-tacking jib should make handling easy. Her three or four cabin interior layout is unusual in that the galley can be either linear or forward, switching conventional positions with the saloon.
All credit to Hanse, this looks like a promising entry-level cruising yacht with an appealing price tag. The new 315 is a family cruiser with a vertical stem and stern to maximise volume and waterline length. The tiller gives her a sporty look, however twin wheels are offered too, as is a fixed table. And there are clever options throughout.
Down below are two double berths plus a single, counting the saloon sofa. It’s a clever use of space, as the aft berth lies athwartships, below the cockpit. The forward cabin can have an open bulkhead to create a larger berth, or a kids’ berth with standing room. Price ex VAT €59,900 (£43,023).
If this is anything like the Jeanneau 64, which launched a year ago and impressed for looks, build and finish quality (CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL TEST REPORT ), the Jeanneau 54 will be one to watch. The 54 benefits from the same design team of Philippe Briand and Andrew Winch, one that has created an equally impressive-looking cruising yacht with some innovative concepts and all for a good price. Price ex VAT €335,600 (£241,040).
This seems a versatile entry-level sporty cruiser with a modern look, from the growing Northman yard in Poland. The Maxus 26 is available with bilge keels for drying out and owners can choose from interiors that can sleep up to eight. It’s available in Sport and Comfort formats, but it’s the price of the Basic price model that will draw attention – €38,401.
RMs are built in plywood epoxy in La Rochelle. They are a refreshingly different cruising concept, fun to sail and available with shoal draught options including both a lifting keel and twin keels. Despite this new 1070 only launching recently, RM has sold an impressive 19 already. She can be seen at the Grand Pavois La Rochelle show or Southampton boatshow this September. Price ex VAT €155,000.
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