Sailboat Jeanneau Yachts 55 for sale

A game-changer: The Jeanneau Yachts 55 is in a class of its own

Imagine you’re a yacht designer and, for a change, your client – the shipyard – hasn’t sent you a densely packed compendium of requirements and specifications in the briefing for a new sailing yacht, but just a blank sheet of paper. On it is a single sentence: “Design the ultimate holiday machine!”

That’s an exaggeration, of course, but it could well have happened, because when the Jeanneau Yachts 55 was unveiled in 2024, specialist journalists, sailors, visitors and the rest of the industry were initially left speechless. What on earth is this? What is Jeanneau getting at? A real bombshell! The Jeanneau Yachts 55 simply – and rather cheekily – defied all the conventions of mass-produced cruising yacht construction. A boat unlike anything that had come before.

Sailing – or, to be more precise, a sailing holiday, completely reimagined. So if you’re looking for something truly, truly, truly special, if the unusual, the unconventional and the over-the-top are right up your street, then you should take a closer look at this yacht.

And let’s get this out of the way right at the start: if you’re a keen sailor looking to buy a cruising yacht to take on your adventures at sea, you’d be better off scrolling almost all the way down to the section ‘Competition in the 16–17-metre segment’, because the Jeanneau Yachts 55 is quite a lot of a boat, but it’s certainly not a cruising yacht.

Come on board – it’s going to be a tour like you’ve never experienced before …

The Jeanneau Yachts 55 concept: Strictly good weather!

The first thing that really stands out is the yacht’s focus on fair weather. The layout, furnishings, design and most of the activity zones on this yacht are conceived on the assumption that it will be sailing in fine weather. It is an outdoor yacht that invites the skipper, crew and guests to feel at home on board. To this end, you have a cockpit at your disposal that spans roughly half the length of the boat. This makes perfect sense, as on holiday you tend to spend most of your time not down in the saloon, but up on deck.

So at Jeanneau, the assumption is that the yacht will be in a cruising area where the weather is warm and as dry as possible. Furthermore, they’d prefer the yacht not to have to cope with heavy swells: ideally, it would be at anchor in a beautiful, idyllic bay – secluded and romantic. Does that fit in with your sailing plans? If you simply want to sail from bay to bay, but keep the crossings as short as possible because you’re keen to finally drop anchor and fire up the barbecue – perfect! Then the Jeanneau Yachts 55 could be just the boat for you.

Jeanneau reinvents the holiday experience – “Owner first!”

It seems that, in designing the Jeanneau Yachts 55, the shipyard has moved away from the traditional path of compromise. Cruising yachts, particularly those from mass-production manufacturers, have always had to strike a balance between the best possible sailing performance and the greatest possible luxury and comfort for holidaymakers. Added to this is the fact that the charter industry places its own specific demands on manufacturers, who, after all, supply around 50 per cent of their vessels to fleet operators. The result is yachts that strive to appeal both to long-distance sailors and to sun-seekers and holiday skippers. Not so with the Jeanneau Yachts 55.

It’s designed purely for holidays. It merely looks like a sailing yacht, but in reality it’s a huge holiday machine, a floating beach, a platform for relaxation, a loft on the water. Sailing aspects (more on that later) take a back seat. The yacht pays little heed to seamanship, sail trim and the like – everything on board is subject to the question: ‘Does it help you relax?’

However, a second, obvious guiding principle of the yacht comes as a surprise: ‘Owner first!’. Just as half the deck is taken up by the cockpit, half of the yacht below deck is the owner’s quarters. The idea here was really to recreate a small holiday flat, just like on land. Guests only go down the central companionway when there’s a meal to be had or to meet in the saloon for a games evening. Otherwise, they have no business being here, as the guest cabins have their own separate entrances and bathrooms. The owner and guests are completely separated from one another. The owner’s area on board the Jeanneau Yachts 55 offers the highest level of privacy and intimacy you’ll ever find on a yacht.

Jeanneau Yachts 55 for sale: A yacht that only Philippe Briand could design

This concept is so extraordinary, so wild, so unique and so extravagant that the shipyard turned to none other than Philippe Briand to bring it to life. The yacht designer has worked for Jeanneau on numerous occasions, but has been replaced by the Marc Lombard Design Group for almost 20 years. Briand is a veteran of the luxury yachting world and, in addition to many production yachts, has also worked for some of the industry’s most high-end names, most notably CNB, for whom he has designed true icons of style.

With the Jeanneau Yachts 55, the aim is, of course, to design luxury in such a way that it can be incorporated into a production yacht. And, of course, to keep this level of comfort affordable, as Jeanneau’s 55 continues to be a boat that has to hold its own against stiff competition in the general price segment for 55-footers. Briand achieves both this to perfection; he has truly created a yacht unlike any other on the market.

Buying a Jeanneau Yachts 55 – Hull, Design, Construction & Sail Plan

A heavyweight despite its state-of-the-art design

All this lavish luxury naturally comes at a price, in terms of design. The Jeanneau Yachts 55 is anything but a lightweight. With a light displacement of just under 19 tonnes (and that’s empty), it is by far the heaviest yacht in the 55-foot segment of production boats. Even Bavaria, who aren’t exactly known for lightweight construction, manage to keep their Bavaria C57 – which also boasts a very attractive interior – down to a mere 18 tonnes, whilst the Dufour 54, which isn’t exactly light either, comes in at 17.6 tonnes. Light-footed, agile sailing should definitely not be on your wish list if you’re thinking of buying the Jeanneau Yachts 55, as that’s something you’re only likely to experience with this yacht in strong winds.

The shipyard utilises modern manufacturing technologies, such as the vacuum infusion process for hull components (inner and outer shells) and the deck. Modern PVC rigid foam panels are also used for the sandwich laminates, which are employed in areas not subject to structural loads. The hull section of the yacht below the waterline is designed as a monolithic laminate, as this is where all the forces from the rig and the keel’s leverage are transmitted.

Relatively low ballast ratio

Speaking of keels: As is typical for this model range, the Jeanneau Yachts 55 is available from the shipyard with a choice of two keel variants. The standard version features a 4.9-tonne L-keel, which provides a draught of 2.49 metres. Those sailing in shallow waters, those who wish to anchor frequently (close to the shore), or where the mooring location imposes specific requirements, can also have a 5.7-tonne flat keel fitted, which reduces the draught to 1.98 metres. In this case, the weight of the Jeanneau Yachts 55 increases by almost one tonne, which is unlikely to enhance its manoeuvrability.

Even with the standard keel, the Jeanneau Yachts 55 is not a particularly stiff yacht. In this case, the ballast ratio is only 26 per cent. This is not unsafe as such, but it is not a particularly good figure either. With this low ratio, the Jeanneau Yachts 55 trails far behind in last place, behind all its competitors, which range from 27 per cent to 32 per cent. This is further evidence that the Jeanneau Yachts 55 isn’t necessarily designed for long-distance sailing voyages and adventure trips, although the yacht has, of course, also been awarded CE certification for Zone A, i.e. unlimited offshore sailing. As we have already said, if you are looking for a serious cruising yacht, you would be better advised to take a look at the competition as well. The Jeanneau Yachts 55, on the other hand, is more about making an impression once the sailing is over… and it certainly does!

Designed for sailing in fine weather and hopping from bay to bay: the Jeanneau Yachts 55’s sailing plan

The rig on the Jeanneau Yachts 55 is relatively simple; buyers of this yacht do not have a wide choice. The shipyard delivers it with a furling mast, and its mainsail cannot be converted to a traditional battened mainsail. At the bow, a self-tacking jib is fitted. Those who prefer a little more flexibility can have a 110 per cent overlapping genoa fitted in addition to or instead of this. This sail then provides a further 20 square metres of sail area compared with the jib and can also be trimmed more precisely thanks to the adjustable sheeting point. Given that, at wind angles of less than 90 degrees, the mainsail offers little scope for adjusting its shape or trim, it would perhaps make sense to retain at least this degree of adjustability on the forestay.

In total, the Jeanneau Yachts 55 thus has a close-hauled sail area of between 130 and 140 square metres. This is comparable to the figures for rival vessels, which, however, are considerably lighter and have hulls that are better optimised hydrodynamically for sailing. As mentioned, outstanding sailing performance is not really on the Jeanneau Yachts 55’s list of priorities.

For the prolonged periods of light winds, owners of the Jeanneau Yachts 55 should definitely have a Code 0 and a gennaker on board; otherwise, they will have to switch to the diesel engine even when the winds are still strong enough for sailing.

All this leads us to conclude that the Jeanneau Yachts 55 is primarily designed for sailing passages that are as short as possible, which, within the yacht’s overall concept, are regarded more as simple "transfers'. The yacht’s true strengths then come into their own once you’ve arrived at your destination, when it can really show off its luxury and comfort.

Dual Cockpit': the navigator at the heart of the cockpit

As already mentioned, around half the length of the boat is set aside for the cockpit. The forward section is dominated by a huge, fixed front canopy, which serves as a sprayhood and provides protection from the sun and wind. This cannot be removed, as it protects the navigation area (with a lovely chart table) and the U-shaped seating area on the starboard side. This is also where the dining table for al fresco dining is located; with the addition of an extra cushion, it can be transformed into a lounging and play area sheltered by the fixed superstructure. Even in the rain, you can make yourself comfortable outside whilst being sheltered from the wind and weather. Behind this, on either side of the cockpit, are the separate access hatches for the two aft guest cabins. They swing open upwards.

These are huge, heavy components held in place by gas springs. Ladders are used to enter and exit the cabins and the compartments. On the port side, the cabin is slightly more spacious, which is why the access hatch here is more comfortable and less steep; the cabin on the starboard side must be entered or exited via a ladder – so it’s more suited to children and teenagers travelling on board. More on the guest cabins later.

Without wishing to paint too gloomy a picture, we believe these access hatches represent a potential safety hazard: should the gas springs fail, a considerable weight would come crashing down. As the compartments below have no visible second exit, this is also the only visible escape route. If this were to become blocked (for example, in the event of a mast failure), the guests would be in trouble. However, this is all rather unlikely, as the Jeanneau Yachts 55 is hardly likely to be sailing to Cape Horn …

Behind this, on both sides, are the steering wheels and the winches. All the sail lines are connected here. The yacht can be sailed entirely single-handed from this position, which is not particularly complicated thanks to the self-tacking jib and furling mainsail. Anyone wishing to use a gennaker or Code 0 should route the relevant sheet via a fairlead to one of the outer winches. The position isn’t particularly ideal, as the gennaker sheet winch should always be as far aft as possible, but as I said: sailing and performance aren’t exactly her strong points.

And behind that, the holiday really begins: on the port side, a huge, L-shaped lounge area awaits you, whilst on the starboard side, opposite, it is laid out in a U-shape. You can sit here at two large tables, or lower the tables and transform one (or both) areas into a huge sunbathing and lounging area. The rear GRP section on the starboard side can be folded up and swivelled out – standing on the XXXL swim platform, one of your fellow sailors can become the BBQ grill master at the built-in plancha. Drinks are taken from the many fridges, four of which are located below deck in the saloon’s longitudinal galley.

With the sunpads for three people on the foredeck, the Jeanneau Yachts 55 is probably the boat with the most lounge space on the market. You’d have to be blind not to find a favourite spot to relax here.

No tender garage?

What should really be standard on a 55-foot sailing yacht (and is on all its competitors’ models) is completely absent from the Jeanneau Yachts 55. According to the brochure, the decision was made deliberately not to include a tender garage in order to maximise the space available for spacious, luxurious cabins.

Instead, the Jeanneau Yachts 55 can be fitted with telescopic davits, to which dinghies weighing up to 110 kg can be attached. This system is often fitted to the smaller yachts in the Beneteau Group(40 to 50 feet), as there is simply no space for a stern garage on these vessels. The advantage of this system is that it is incredibly easy to use. The downside is that it offers only one solution for transporting the dinghy whilst underway; if you want to moor (reversing in) or go for a swim at your anchorage, the dinghy has to be removed. In our view, therefore, it is only a half-baked solution.

The Jeanneau Yachts 55 features a wet storage compartment at the stern, known as the ‘lazarette’, which, at 2.10 x 1.50 x 0.35 m, is impressively spacious but definitely cannot accommodate an inflatable dinghy. You can store fenders, water toys or your SUP here.

In our view, the lack of a garage is a significant drawback, particularly for a yacht designed so much for holidays, as it reduces the convenience of day-to-day use.

What is lovely, however, is the absolutely impressive swimming platform we’ve already mentioned. This impressive feature is lowered hydraulically and not only serves as an extra sunbathing area, but also ensures you can climb back on board comfortably after your morning swim.

Buy a Jeanneau Yachts 55 – All the information for skippers and sailors

What type of owner and usage scenario is the Jeanneau Yachts 55 best suited to?

As you’ll have realised, the Jeanneau Yachts 55 isn’t a sailing yacht so much as a boat designed to arrive at its destination. It’s a huge holiday platform, with the focus on summer and life in the cockpit. On board, you’re meant to relax, stretch out and enjoy the day. Sailing here is merely a means of getting from A to B; the real playground is the anchorage or the waterfront of a picturesque harbour town. The Jeanneau Yachts 55 is perfect for parties; it’s designed to pamper guests. Particular emphasis is placed on absolute privacy: no other yacht offers such intimate and secluded cabins, for owners and guests alike.

Are you looking to buy a yacht that emphasises luxury and comfort, is suitable for long stays on board, and where your guests can enjoy complete privacy? The Jeanneau Yachts 55 is a true holiday machine; in this respect, it leaves hardly anything to be desired.

Are you looking to buy a cruising yacht? The competition in the 16–17-metre class

With its ‘Owner first!’ concept and design consistently geared towards a lounge-style layout, the Jeanneau Yachts 55 stands out uniquely among the 55-foot yachts. If you’ve fallen in love with this yacht, none of its competitors can pose a serious threat. However, if you’re more interested in sailing, fast cruising or even serious cruising, almost every other competitor’s model is, in our view, superior to the Jeanneau. Yes, even the heavy Bavaria C57. This offers the classic yacht layout, boasts outstanding interior volume and features the infamous, very modern and angular Cossutti design. The Dufour 54 is also unique, yet thoroughly typical of a cruising yacht. Interior designer Luca Ardizio has focused here primarily on hexagonal shapes, which repeatedly create unusual and exciting accents throughout the interior. You’ve got to like that; we reckon the Dufour is the ‘Lancia of sailing yachts’: a bit extravagant for a select few. The Hanse 458 presents itself as more classic and capable under sail, though a touch outdated; it is sure to be replaced in the coming years by a new version, designed by Berret-Racoupeau. If the Hanse represents the conservative end of the product range, then Beneteau’s brand-new Oceanis 52 would represent the avant-garde end. State-of-the-art lines, plenty of space in the cockpit, and a wealth of luxury below deck too – yet it’s a well-sailing cruising yacht, and that’s what sets it apart.

As I said, the Jeanneau Yachts 55 doesn’t really pay much attention to the competition, as it goes its own way. If sailing is more of a third or fourth priority for you, this large Jeanneau is likely to be just right for you.

Comfort below deck

The layout of the Jeanneau Yachts 55: Let your imagination run wild …

… and that goes for everything you’ve seen on board sailing yachts so far! The Jeanneau Yachts 55 isn’t just a yacht – it’s a home. That’s more or less exactly what it says in the brochure: below deck, the boat aims to create a sense of tranquillity and security, as well as absolute privacy and intimacy. This is achieved by strictly separating all three living areas from one another, particularly in terms of sound insulation. I’m sure you can see where we’re going with this …

The owner’s area in the foredeck is separated from the activity aft by the huge saloon. Both guest cabins are separated from one another lengthways by the engine room. As all three cabins (and the Jeanneau Yachts 55 is only available in this one configuration) have their own en-suite bathrooms, nobody has to share a bathroom. No one has to go into the saloon to use the toilet, and no one is disturbed by what the others are doing. This level of consistency has not been achieved on any other yacht to date: the space is utilised to the full to maximise privacy.

That is why the Jeanneau Yachts 55 is particularly successful in the charter sector: here, people who are strangers or only loosely acquainted often pay the frequently high weekly rates just to experience sailing a large yacht once. Although the sense of intimacy only becomes apparent at second glance, it contributes immensely to the feel-good atmosphere on board.

Salon and owners’ area: Just like a flat on land

The owner’s area comprises the saloon with a large galley running the length of the boat and, in the foredeck, the owner’s cabin with en-suite bathroom. In the saloon, there is a U-shaped seating area on the port side. Should the weather ever be so bad that you wouldn’t even want to use the dinette, which is sheltered beneath the fixed dome, this is an excellent place to dine or simply spend some time. The dinette is fully equipped, but what is particularly impressive is the enormous refrigeration capacity, with no fewer than four large fridge and freezer units.

The owner’s cabin is designed as a loft. The bed is not centred, but is situated on the port side of the yacht. This is not practical, as it is unsafe in rough seas and when sailing with the bow to starboard, as you would then fall several metres into the open space before being caught by the sofa positioned opposite the bed. The owner’s bathroom is very spacious and is fitted against the forward bulkhead at the very front of the boat. Here too, one would generally try to install bathrooms (especially frequently used toilets) on or near the yacht’s centre of rotation – that is, on or near the keel – so that the up-and-down motion in the waves does not make using the facilities too strenuous. But the Jeanneau Yachts 55 is, after all, designed more for calm waters, with little sailing and plenty of rocking at anchor, so we think this arrangement is perfectly fine.

You’ve got to like the visitors’ changing rooms

We have already explained our slight problem with boarding and disembarking. Guests stay on board the Jeanneau Yachts 55 in spacious, private cabins located in the aft section. They feature large double beds, an en-suite shower and toilet, and plenty of natural light and fresh air. In fact, these cabins are more akin to small rooms in a flat than to traditional cabins. There’s plenty of headroom, ample storage space and good views through the side hull windows. The comfort is undeniable, as are the seclusion and privacy.

On the starboard side, you have to use a ladder to get in and out of the cabin, which is why the port-side guest cabin tends to be regarded as having VIP status.

Like everything else on board the Jeanneau Yachts 55, the guest cabin is simply completely different from what you’ve been used to on sailing boats. If you’re interested in buying this yacht, we therefore strongly recommend not only viewing it, but also putting it through its paces on a charter before you buy!

Summary and conclusion

Could the Jeanneau Yachts 55 be your next yacht?

Now that we’ve reached the end of our article, you should have a good idea of what the Jeanneau Yachts 55 is all about. The focus is on comfort, holidays, luxury, relaxation and spending time together. You, your family and your guests are set to have the most wonderful time on board – whether at anchor or in harbour. This yacht spoils you with an abundance of space and a wide range of ways to enjoy your time on board: sitting, lounging, sunbathing, dining and even dancing. The Jeanneau Yachts 55 is a formidable holiday machine, a perfect floating island of luxury (with a few compromises, but these are inevitable on any yacht).

In our opinion, what it is not is a sailing ship. If you’re looking for an agile, fun, safe and fast yacht for cruising or even offshore adventures, we’d recommend one of the boats from the dazzling range of competitors, where actual sailing plays a greater role once again.

Buy a Jeanneau Yachts 55 – What we particularly like about it:

• A concept designed uncompromisingly for holidays and relaxation.
• A huge outdoor cockpit that’s very versatile.
• Complete privacy for all guests and owners on board.

Buying a Jeanneau Yachts 55 – Here’s what you should look out for:

• Not particularly suited as a traditional cruising yacht; heavy, with little ballast.
• Access to the guest cabins.
• No dinghy garage at the stern.

Further reviews and test reports: