wauquiez yachts reviews

Serious long-haul: Wauquiez 48

• September 25th, 2022
• Sailing Yacht

The Cannes Yachting Festival 2022 was a great show and brought back the pre-Covid nimbus of the show that used to be among the best boat shows of the world, definitely of Europe. I´ve had the pleasure to be working here again for Beneteau but also took my time to seek interesting boats to write about them. As my fourth detailed walkthrough I chose a yacht by one of the great traditional names in French boat building: Wauquiez.

There aren´t many and I am honest, I´ve never seen one of these boats in reality. It appears to me that they are so rare, that you only see them in (carefully selected) boat shows. Or is it, that these boats are so great, that their owners simply sail away to the distant places and hidden anchorages we could only dream of? Well, I can imagine it is that way because – boy! – how nicely are those Wauquiez-yachts built!

A boat for some serious long-term sailing

I´d like to start my walkaround down below, because this is what the yard has been perfecting over the decades. A Wauquiez is a real deck saloon boat, she offers a hell of volume inside. It is truly amazing upon going down the companionway how huge of a volume is created inside and … honestly … how much space is created here.

It is not only the space, that fascinates. Unlike many other boats which claim to be “deck saloon”-yachts, the Wauquiez really is one. The raised floor in the saloon and the huge deck house (we will later see how it looks from the outside) really lift up the floor from the waterline-niveau and place you well above the seas. Huge windows make possible a nearly 360 degree round sight and you stand in awe, pure disbelieve: This is really just a 48-feet boat?!

Well, it is indeed! And not just that: Wauquiez offers a level of design and quality that is unsurpassed by most of the brands on the market. The design of the interior is modern, edgy and appealing – but not overly laden with “stylish” accessories. The design is maritime, but not cheesy. Lots of high-grade wooden panels with real veneers, massive rails and fittings.

Just looking at the leather settees and cushions, tastefully integrated into the overall design of the saloon is pure joy. This boat has clearly been designed by people who know what a sailing couple or family needs when underway big time. This is not a yacht made to look good at the Croisette jetty but a yacht designed to offer most comforts when sailing a 1.000 mile-leg over from one Pacific atoll to the next lagoon. I´d call it breathtaking. The Wauquiez has more in common with an Oyster than any other boat.

This is a true kitchen, not a galley

Her layout is pretty classic for couple-sailing long haul boat: Two master cabins, a saloon in the middle and the galley at portside. The position of the galley is at the pivoting point of the boat near the keel. The passageway back to the owner´s suite is filled with stowage, long worktops and a great working place for the ship´s cook.

In this, the galley is deep down at the lowest level of the boat´s hull. But this doesn´t mean that you´ll have to chop veggies and stir fry food here down below in a dark, stuffy dungeon. The coachroof above you is also equipped with large windows so that loads of natural light will enter the galley: Cooks with a tendency to get seasick won´t have much of a problem watching the horizon from time to time.

The galley of the Wauquiez is exemplary. The fitting is modular so that owners can choose how much space for cutlery they want or trade for fridges or freezers. Under the floorboards decent stowage is appealing, the passageway back to the cabin is wide enough to be comfortable but also narrow enough to offer safe grab when the boat is subject to a bigger swell and movement. Equipment, material and haptics are first-class.

Amazing craftsmanship & woodworks

I stand in awe in this masterly crafted saloon. Everything is very solid. Everything looks absolutely fantastic: The grain of the wooden parts are fitting, edges are rounded. There is no squeaking nor any groaning when I walk over the floorboards. The level of craftsmanship that went into making this boat is absolutely enormous.

Of course I know that at this level of boat building a customer of this boat will be able to choose from a huge variety of fabrics for the cushions, but this particular owner went for white leather. And it feels fantastic: The warm touch of the material, the fine odor is lovely. I suck in the smell of this freshly made boat and wonder if I would make a fortune in selling Little-Tree Wunderbaum “Smells like a Wauquiez”. Fantastic!

Taking on world class hotel suites

You all know about my passion for UK boat builder Oyster. For me, these yachts are the pinnacle of oceangoing long haul cruisers made for the sailing couple. This Wauquiez, however, does not just come close to the luxurious functionality an Oyster offers, I´d pledge it measures up to the same level indeed!

Just look at the marvelous owner´s suite in the back. Don´t forget: We are inside a 14.77 meters boat, not a 50-footer or even bigger. This cabin can easily take on any 5 star western standard hotel suite. The wide island bad gives free view through the big hull windows. There is a small settee for dressing and undressing which can also be used as a seat for working at a small table.

The fore cabin is not a downgrade either: A huge bed, for which by the way hinges for lee sails are standard, which is a small hint for the fact that this boat is made for serious cruising. There´s lots of stowage and again I am puzzled by the high level of craftsmanship here. And, oh yeah, look at these huge hull windows again!

Those are the best! I love it how big Beneteau makes the windows on our Oceanis cruisers , but these are a notch up again. Just bigger! I wonder how these are built, glued to the hull to be safe. Again, wooden panels and the thick veneers are handsome, the grain is continuous and perfect, no matter where you look.

There´s also a small guest cabin with a double bunk bed, perfect for kids, skipper and crew or surplus guests. This boat is also offered in 4 configurations: 3 cabin owners aft, 3 cabins owners front, 4 cabins (who does that?) and a roomy 2-cabin-version. All in all I am absolutely amazed by the fact how big of a boat´s interior you can squeeze into 48 feet: This is something I´d expect in a 50 or even 55 footer.

Bathrooms are functional and nice. There is no GRP visible and again fine wooden panels and marquetry caress the eye of the beholder. Wauquiez, although an absolute niche product, is clearly a top shelf boat, a luxury brand offering the highest of standards to their clients. Speaking of which …

A ship for a circumnavigation

Who buys a Wauquiez? Well, as I said, I cannot recall having seen a Wauquiez in “real life” ever. Frequently, when talking to friends abut boats, someone will mention this name and we all would raise our eyebrows and start nodding knowingly, but I know nobody who literally sailed one of these. But I guess enough will choose this brand for their boat as the yard is a frequent attendee of boat shows.

Looking up the bare data, it is a bit awkward that the yard does not offer any more numbers than the length/width/draft. No information about displacement or sails area whatsoever. I guess, it is sufficient enough to propel this wonderful boat to a cruising speed to eat up the miles of a circumnavigation. Her outward appearance is something you should be getting used to see.

She is not ugly though but she is definitely not a boat that looks fast or classy. A Wauquiez has her own set of beauty-standards and of course, offering all this interior volume, especially that of the saloon, must have repercussions for the design seen from outside. In this, she has a huge bulgy deck house, elongated and very high. Like an Allures with high pressure inside.

I like her cockpit very much. The winches are positioned to be reached from behind the twin wheels easily. All lines are led aft so that the skipper can control the boat from there in safety. The cockpit is small by Mediterranean-cruiser-standards. The old Oceanis 48 offered far more lounge space, but again, this is a mile-eater and it is surely mostly sailed by a couple, not a party of 6 charter-friends who need space.

A dinghy will fit neatly, I guess it´s a 2.80 or even (maybe partially deflated) 3 meter boat that can be taken in by the garage in the aft. Which is nice because nothing hurts my eyes more than watching all those great yachts sailing around with their dinghies hanging unmotivated at ugly davits or – even worse – flipped over on the bow between the Jib sheets.

What a great boat!

So, all in all, this is a great boat. As well as after boarding her smaller 42-feet sister during Duesseldorf boat show some years ago I am absolutely stunned and in love for the clever design, the great layout and the superior finishing quality of the boat. This yard makes fine yachts indeed. The friendly staff at the counter tells me that this boat was worth 1.something million Euros and I´d say: She is worth this budget indeed!

I say Goodbye to the guys and go back to work as the boat show is about to start. Wauquiez will always be a riddle for me: So great boats but still so seldom seen. Take Amel for example: An equally small brand with a true blue water cruiser concept that has so many unique (and awkward) features, like the steering post for example. Yet, of a Wauquiez there seems to be so few boats underway. Well, I say to myself, indeed, maybe these boats are not here but all away anchoring at those very places we are just dreaming of …

You may also like to read:

Smaller sister ship: The Wauquiez 42 Pilot Saloon

Oyster 495 , walkthrough of the smallest in the fleet

A trip to France: Allures 45

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Wauquiez Pretorien 35

This well-made french cruiser has a fairly contemporary underbody and is strong enough to venture offshore. finding one is the problem..

Though out of production since 1987, this French cruiser receives high marks from owners who appreciate high quality construction, comfortable accommodations belowdecks, and a seakindly motion. It stands in stark contrast to the rounded, modern designs and flashy interiors currently produced by French manufacturers.

The Company Chantier Henri Wauquiez, of Lille, France, was formed and commenced producing boats in the 1960’s, when Henry Wauquiez became so enamored with the sailing characteristics of his personal sailboat, the Holman and Pye-designed Elizabethan 29, that he received a license to produce the boat in France.

Within a year, the boat became popular in France and established the firm’s reputation as a builder of solid, fast cruising boats. In ensuing years, Wauquiez commissioned Holman-Pye to design the Victorian 28, which competed successfully in the quarter ton world championships, and several cruising sloops ranging in size from 32-47 feet, including the Pretorien 35, built between 1979 and 1986. Other designs included the Chance 37, which dominated the European production boat racing circuit from 1972-75, and the Wauquiez Hood 38, which was designed by Ted Hood. That boat was later produced in the United States as the Ted Hood Little Harbor 38 (Hood’s personal boat Robin) and the Bristol 38; American versions typically had the same underbody but different deck configurations. Others included the 33′ Gladiateur and 43′ Amphitrite.

Like many yards of this vintage, Wauquiez experienced financial difficulties tied to foreign exchange rates, national politics that affected the French economy, and competition from lower-priced competitors. The company thrived from 1965-1982, when it went into receivership. It emerged from bankruptcy in 1983 and produced 200 boats from 1982-87, many of which were sold in the US. When the dollar plummeted in 1988 the US market evaporated, and the company refocused its efforts on domestic production and sales to charter fleets in the Mediterranean.

Wauquiez brought in Olivier Prouvost as a financial partner in 1987, but the union was not a happy one. Wauquiez eventually left the company. Prouvost operated the company until 1997, when he sold it to Beneteau. With favorable foreign exchange rates again a reality, the company has made a renewed commitment to selling new boats in the United States. At this writing, Discovery Yachts of Seattle holds the only dealership in the US. The market for used Pretoriens has remained strong throughout the uncertain economic times.

Design The profile of the Pretorien 35, like most of the company’s designs, is similar to that seen in Baltic, Swan and Sweden yachts. We think the boat is stylishly traditional. The fine entry is not as radical as the current Farr designs, for example, but its flush decks and flowing sheerline present a fine shape, and the interior is brightened by light colored woods, ports and hatches.

Yacht designer Mark Mills, a specialist in the design of performance yachts, comments that, “The boat shares characteristics of many early-80’s designs when IOR design dominated the cruiser/racer market, as represented by the somewhat pinched stern section and large-foretriangle masthead rig. The external keel contains a reassuring volume of lead, and the 46% ballast ratio will produce a stiffer, more seakindly ride. Though not overly heavy, the D/L (displacement/length) ratio of 225 fits the displacement profile of a traditional cruiser perfectly and promises significant interior volume. It is a well-built, solid cruiser with undemanding ways.”

Construction Wauquiez constructs solid fiberglass hulls, laid up by hand, that consist of several layers of bi-directional fiberglass. Six longitudinal stiffeners that run the entire length of the boat are glassed in and integrated to fiberglass beams running athwartships that provide additional structural integrity. Bulkheads are bonded to the hull and deck. The bonds are reinforced by a technique not often seen on other boats: Holes are drilled in the bulkhead to allow additional fiberglass strips to run from the hull through the holes to the hull on the opposite side of the bulkhead. (Shannon is another company that uses this method.)

The Pretorien was built prior to the use of vinylester resins (proven superior to polyester for preventing blistering) for the outer laminations, and one owner reported minor blistering problems. As with any older used boat, we suggest a thorough bottom evaluation.

The modified fin keel—6,000 lbs. of lead—is fitted to a keel stub, and bolted to the hull with 3/4″ stainless bolts and two nuts on each. The rudder is attached to a skeg running aft from the keel, and mounted on a stainless steel bearing assembly. Because the rudder is well aft, and deep, it provides solid steering power in heavy seas and winds.

The deck is balsa cored, which was unusual for European boats of this vintage, except in areas where hardware is to be attached, where it is solid fiberglass. The hull/deck joint is a flanged arrangement that is glassed over and reinforced by stainless steel fasteners. The toe rail and stanchion bases are also fastened through this joint.

The engine compartment is well insulated from the sounds of the 23-hp. or 28-hp. Volvo diesels that were original equipment. One owner commented that the 23-hp. engine moves the boat at 6 knots in calm waters, but slows dramatically in wind or current, so the larger engine may be the preferred powerplant.

The boat is designed to be equipped with a saildrive, and several owners described problems with electrolysis of the aluminum underwater unit. One owner told us that his engine was improperly bonded to the ground system. Another said the AC electrical system was bonded to the ground. Any such installation should be examined thoroughly to avoid potential problems. Many owners change the zinc at six-month intervals, or have divers inspect the unit every 90 days.

Some boats were imported with a conventional drive shaft. However, this reportedly resulted in dramatically angled propeller shafts, which aren’t very efficient. The saildrive, by comparison, provides perfectly horizontal thrust.

We don’t like the position of the batteries, which are located beneath the port quarterberth, because they take up handy storage space and are located too far aft. However, owners told us that the additional weight to port was offset by gear stored in the starboard lazarette.

Each boat produced in the Wauquiez factory undergoes a water test prior to shipment. Boats are launched in a pond and undergo 24 hours of continuous spraying by water hoses to assure they are leakproof.

Deck Layout The cockpit measures 85″ long and 62″ wide at the narrowest point in the stern. Seats are 18″ wide and provide good leg support, but the footwell is narrow at 18″ wide.

One owner told us that the forward location of the Lewmar 46 self-tailing primary winches near the companionway prevented easy sheeting following the installation of a dodger. (This is a commonproblem when a dodger is added.) He moved the winches aft 12″. This also made them more accessible from the steering station

Boats were equipped with wheel steering and a destroyer-style wheel and pedestal with room for a basic instrument package—wind speed, boat speed and depth.

The top of the rudder post is located atop the stern coaming, which facilitates easy attachment of an emergency tiller, which is secured to the hull in a lazarette.

Lazarettes, which are all vented to prevent odors and mildew, are to starboard and in the aft end of the cockpit. The three lazarettes to starboard can be combined to create a space large enough for a life raft. One section is separated by a partial bulkhead that one owner extended vertically to provide a mounting area for a heater. Interestingly, the lazarettes all have the same fine surfaces as the rest of the boat, and have been coated with an epoxy-like material.

The propane tank is in the aft compartment and should be carefully inspected, because boats came from the factory with copper tubing that should be replaced with USCG-approved hoses. Access to the steering quadrant, a beefy stainless steel unit, is via the aft compartment. The fuel tank is below the pedestal.

Wide decks allow easy movement forward, and double lifelines with gates on both sides of the boat are standard equipment. However, the coachroof is so low that it’s a stretch to reach handrails. On the boat we examined, we were impressed that the stainless steel stanchions and other fittings, some more than 13 years old, showed no sign of rust.

Standard equipment included Lewmar 8, 16, and 24 two-speed winches on the mast for the main, jib and spinnaker halyards, and reefing lines. All of the running rigging is inside the mast and booms. Standing rigging includes four pair of shrouds to support the double-spreader mast, a baby stay, and running backstays. One owner said he needed the baby stay to keep the mast from pumping in a breeze.

The anchor locker at the bow is adequate for the storage of 25′ of 5/8″ chain and 500′ of nylon rode. Most boats are equipped with 30- to 35-lb. anchors. Two owners extended the cheeks on the bow roller to prevent their plow anchors from banging against the hull.

Belowdecks Everyone with whom we spoke commented favorably on the boat’s space, quality joinery and finish, and light belowdecks. After inspecting the boat, we agree.

The boat has 6′ 3″ of standing headroom in the saloon, and 6′ 2″ in the forepeak.

All of the wooden surfaces are cherry, which is lighter to the eye than teak or mahogany. With three windows on each side of the cabin, and a 24″ hatch amidships, the space was well-lit on the gray, midwinter morning we did our inspection. Two East Coast owners commented on the need for additional fresh air ventilation and improved circulation. They installed electric fans.

The overhead liner provides an air gap. Wooden covers screwed into the overhead allow access to wiring runs. One owner commented that these covers may need occasional re-fastening because they are prone to dislodging.

As with most aft-cockpit boats, the engine is mounted below the companionway steps, and is easily accessible from the front. Additional access to starboard is via the starboard lazarette, or through a small opening in the port stateroom.

The aft stateroom, which has a hard door, has a wood ceiling and is ventilated by a portlight in the cockpit footwell. A double berth measuring 76″ x 50″ provides space for two average-sized adults. There is a hanging locker, which in some boats also is equipped with a small sink. The space may prove cozy for two adults on an extended passage, but will certainly meet the needs of most casual cruisers, especially those traveling with children.

The nav station is to port, opposite the galley, and the subject of one owner complaint. The table is about 42″ wide and 26″ deep with a shallow storage area, a bit smallish for plotting tools on full-sized charts. There are two shelves for logs and books, and room for instruments on the station’s bulkhead. Finding room for a large CRT or LCD monitor without reorganizing the space would be challenging. There is additional storage below the nav seat and in drawers below the chart table.

Opposite the nav station is the galley, which, like the nav station, comes under criticism for its lack of handholds. The entire space belowdecks is wide open and the only handholds are rails mounted on the overhead. Movement fore and aft might be a bit dicey in rough weather.

The galley is U-shaped, 56″ deep by 46″ wide, the counter of which is accented by ceramic tiles, a Wauquiez trademark. It is equipped with a double stainless steel sink, a gimbaled two burner stove, a 20″ deep dry locker and ice box.

For a 35-footer, the galley has excellent stowage. The area below the sink is large enough for two waste baskets plus cleaning supplies. There’s a plastic tray below the stove that is adequate for some cookery as well as enclosed stowage for dishware behind the stove. A fourth compartment is below the icebox. The icebox measures 43″ by 11″ and is 33″ deep. Insulation is just 2″-3″ thick and may suffer from its close proximity to the engine compartment. One owner covers stores with a thermostatic pad to reduce melting and another removed the box and replaced it with a more substantially insulated smaller unit.

One of the most interesting touches is an opening in the bulkhead behind the icebox that leads to the starboard lazarette. Designed as additional space for foul weather gear, the space has a fresh air vent, or could be warmed by engine heat. This seems a good idea, though the down side is that the gear must be dragged across the icebox.

The saloon has two comfortable places to relax, eat, or sleep. The starboard settee is U-Shaped and houses a double leaf table that provides seating for four to six adults. Additional seating to port is on a second settee 60″ long, which incorporates a 16″ footwell under the nav station for sleeping. The cushion is 25″ wide at its narrowest point and is equipped with a lee cloth.

Several owners complained that the dining table intrudes into the fore and aft passageway, and extends over the settee cushions, requiring some acrobatics to reach the outboard seats. One went so far as to replace the original table with a narrower table. The starboard settee converts to a double berth 78″ long and 48″ wide. There is stowage behind the settees.

Two 33-gallon water tanks are beneath the settees, a plus that puts weight low and amidships.

Both sides of the hull are lined with shelving and stowage areas, one with a wine locker with a wicker door.

The head is to starboard, with doors to both the saloon and forward stateroom. It has hot and cold pressure water faucets, a built-in handheld shower head and Par toilet, all in a compartment marginally large enough for one adult. Stowage is in a large, two door medicine cabinet, and below the sink in an area filled with pipes, hoses and seacocks.

Forward of the saloon is a hanging locker to port and the master stateroom enclosed by a solid wood door. The V-berth, which is 81″ wide and 80″ long, takes up most of the space, though there are shelves and reading lights are on both sides. A hatch provides fresh air ventilation. Overnight cruisers described the space as being comfortable.

Wiring and Plumbing Except for the exceptions noted above, we like the mechanical systems on this boat. We did, however, find a wiring run in a loom cut through a bulkhead hole that had chafed. We were impressed with the finish of all hidden spaces.

All hoses were double clamped, and bronze seacocks and manifolds are used on all through-hulls.

Performance In an attempt to determine the sailing characteristics, we talked with several present and former owners of Pretorien 35’s and were surprised that their comments fell within a very narrow range. Depending on the sail inventory, the boat needs 6-8 knots of breeze to sail quickly. This is not surprising considering its 15.6 sail area/displacement ratio.

One racer told us that his inventory included only a 135% genoa and that in less than 10-12 knots of wind, performance was dismal. A second owner who participates in Wednesday night fleet racing said that the boat sails to its handicap with 8 knots of breeze and a 150% genoa. In all cases, sailors were using traditional Dacron fabrics; we’d bet that light air performance could be enhanced by lighter, finely tuned laminate sails.

On the other hand, skippers said the boat is dry going to weather in 30 knots of wind. All agreed that the boat points higher than similar 35-foot cruisers. One racer said he sails to within 40° of true wind direction.

Sam Stitt, who cruises his boat in the Northwest, said that the boat is easily balanced on all points of sail, but mentioned that an Autohelm 4000 was inadequate for sailing wing and wing in more than 20 knots of wind because of its slow response time. He purchased the Pretorien after considering a J-36 and Express 37, primarily because it is fast enough for his needs, and more comfortable.

“The boat steers better, with less effort, and more predictably, than any comparably sized boat I have driven. I think that this is one of its most important features, beyond all of the obvious quality and finish attributes,” Stitt said.

A similar sentiment was expressed by Fred Hess, who raced his boat in the single-handed TransPac in 1996. He replaced the Autohelm with a sturdier Alpha autopilot, which he said responded more quickly.

During his 2,000 mile, 14-day passage from San Francisco to Hawaii, Hess said he spent most of his time in the cockpit sunbathing and reading cheap novels while the autopilot and Monitor windvane steered. He described the boat’s motion as ‘seakindly,’ and said that in 12- to 35-knot winds the boat was a sleigh. Sailing with tri-radial and asymmetrical spinnakers, he experienced neither spinouts or round downs. During a race from San Francisco to Santa Barbara, he sailed comfortably with the tri-radial in 45-knot winds.

Conclusions So, why aren’t more Wauquiez boats plying American waters?

“It’s a matter of economics,” said John Carson of Seattle, who was the leading dealer in the world during the mid-1980’s. “When the dollar plummeted, the price of the boats increased so dramatically they became unaffordable compared to American production boats, or we would still be selling them. I’d go anywhere in one of Henri Wauquiez’ boats.”

We agree with Carson’s assessment. Though BUC Used Boat Price Guide lists prices between about $65,000 and $75,000, the two we found for sale on the West Coast were asking close to $90,000, and one on the East Coast was asking $77,000. Though pricey for a used 35-footer, we think the boat has a lot to recommend it, especially if the bottom survives a careful survey, and if outfitted with new generation electronics and a good sail inventory.

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My son purchased a Wauquiez Pretorien (Desolina)in January 2022, after a long refit we sailed it from Falmouth to Southampton on the UK south coast, which will be the home port, in October 2022. The voyage was 189 nautical miles which we completed 30 hours. Strong winds from aft F5/6 with prolonged periods of F7/8. The boat gave us full confidence in testing conditions.

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Wauquiez 40 Pilot Saloon information/owner feedback

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Hello all! I'm considering two Wauquiez 40 Pilot Saloons available on the eastern seaboard. I've never been aboard any of their boats except the much different and older Pretorien 35, manufactured well before the they were owned (for a period) by Beneteau. I'd really like to get some feedback from those that have owned them, or who have at least been aboard/crewed before I commit to a trip up and over from my home here in New Orleans. (perhaps someone might know who has if not themselves) * I'm already aware of the compromises with the pilot saloon design, to include the usable cabin space allocation and the potential liability of large windows in heavy weather, but I feel this might be a good niche-design for me as a single live-aboard. I'd love to do some extensive blue water sailing but feel this may be a better investment in terms of liveability and the reality of the kind of coastal sailing I expect to primarily do with it. Much appreciated! - Hunt  

Just out of curiosity I went to Yachtworld and looked carefully at the pictures of that boat. First thing that struck me was that there didn't seem to be a comfortable place to lounge around, inside or outside, anywhere on that boat. Neither berth looked comfortable, with separations in the mattresses right down the middle and little headroom. Furthermore there appears to be almost no storage space for your clothes and personal items in either cabin. The galley has very little counter space for preparing meals and again, very few storage spaces for food and kitchen utensils and/or appliances. I sure wouldn't want to be the person who had to maintain that engine, or sleep in the aft cabin under power. I'm pointing these things out as you seem to be purchasing a boat as a full time liveaboard and potential cruiser. I just don't think this is a good boat for that purpose. If you make a boat your home, your very first, and in my opinion most important concern, should be comfort. Storage, ventilation and little things like engine accessibility for routine maintenance and a good galley are way more important to me than speed under sail or pointing ability. Most liveaboard sail boat owners sail much less than 10% of the time, even when cruising, so you should keep that in mind as you decide what you need in a boat you'd like to buy. However, I do love the transom steps and swim/boarding area. That area does look well thought out.  

capta, Thanks for your candid input. I've also considered a few other (mostly more traditional boats) as well (Sabre 38 mkII, Sabre 425, Cabo Rico 38, Tartan 40, and another Wauquiez, the Centurion 40s) Any feelings on these or maybe some input on another capable but also friendly to life-aboard hull? My budget is 150k. Cheers! - Hunt  

I really have no familiarity with the boats you mentioned. I was only offering you another perspective from which to view a boat as your future home.  

I looked at the boat on Yachtworld. My opinion... worth nothing... is this is a design fail for all the reasons Capta wrote and more. I wouldn't buy that for half the offering prices.  

If you like the Deck Saloon design, you should check out a Sirius DS40. Tons of storage, very well thought out, very comfortable and good design. Would be a much preferred choice over the Wauquiez in my opinion. Of course the Tartan and Sabres you mentioned would also be at the top of my list. Just my inexperienced opinion, however our dream next boat will likely be a Tartan, HR, or Sirius DS.  

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• Digital edition

Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 48

• Graham Snook
• January 23, 2016

YM travel to Düsseldorf in Germany to visit Boot 16, Europe's largest boat show with a vast selection of new boats, here we look at the Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 48

Wauquiez have been producing yachts for 50 years now and the Pilot Saloon is the latest model to hit the water. Forward of the mast her deck is conventional with deep safe toe rails, and nice full-length handrails forward – these also keep in place the foredeck cushions. Aft of the mast it rises to accommodate the large 46cm high coachroof windows. The cockpit is well sheltered behind deep coamings. All winches and lines are set aft with winches low and inboard to areas in front of the two wheels. There’s a fold-down transom and a small tender garage come lazarette accessed from the cockpit or the transom.

Inside the 48 Pilot Saloon takes advantage of those lovely big windows down below by raising the saloon and chart table to offer panoramic views out. The chart table is positioned forward opposite the C-shaped seating in the saloon. Forward is a heads compartments and two guest cabins – one with a pair of Pullman berths, while forward is a V-berth with stowage to port.

Under the cockpit is a vast full beam owners cabin aft with private en suite.

The Yachting Monthly test will be in the April 2016 issue

Who would she suit?

Those who want to cruise long distances in style, safety and comfort.

Price £383,830

LOA 14.77m 48ft 4in

LWL 12.75m 41ft 10in

Cabins Three

Beam 4.61m 15ft 2in

Draught 2.10m 6ft 11in

Displacement 14000kg 30,870lbs

Contact Parkstone Bay Yachts

Tel +44 (0)1202 724917

Website http://parkstonebayyachts.com

Click here to read about more new boats and Boot 16

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Wauquiez 55 first look: brimming with clever ideas

• Toby Hodges
• May 3, 2024

The new Wauquiez 55 is aimed squarely at the premium end of the cruising market and is the first new launch from the French brand since 2018

While the graphical representations of many new designs may look impressive, rarely do we see a production yacht unveiled with so many new or reimagined clever ideas all packed into one hull as there are on this new Wauquiez 55.

And the French shipyard did so under the radar, only unveiling these images of its first new model since the Wauquiez 42 in 2018 at the Düsseldorf Boat Show in January this year. The Wauquiez 55 also marks its first new launch under new owners Exel Industries, and is aimed squarely at the premium end of the cruising market.

The novel design certainly sparks interest.

A centre cockpit cruiser with twin engines and a lift keel option, it offers the type of full cockpit protection only seen on a couple of cruising yachts such as Amels and Allures today, including the ability to control all manoeuvres and handling from here. Perhaps my favourite feature, though, is the direct access from the owner’s aft cabin straight onto the beamy sunken aft deck terrace.

Master cabin has near surround views plus direct access to the aft terrace.

Even before Wauquiez revealed the designer responsible, the prominent reverse sheer, lines long favoured by Lombard design, gave it away. Lombard’s longstanding co-director Eric Levet told me how this method worked particularly well for this higher deck concept – “it’s something you couldn’t do on an aft cockpit yacht”. He also confirmed that the aft terrace leans on inspiration from early Wally yachts such as Tiketitan.

While the Wauquiez 55 is designed for ease of short-handed use from within the cockpit cocoon, it’s also conceived for performance and double digit speeds. A tall rig provides almost 170m2 of upwind sail area and the boat is built in foam sandwich to keep weight down to 20 tonnes lightship.

Article continues below…

Wauquiez PS42 review: Interior finesse shines through on classy cruiser

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Options are generous including three rigs, two keels, and two different interior layouts. The ballasted swing keel version provides pointing ability in its deep 4.2m mode or raises to 1.6m, and has a fuse in the hydraulic system in case of grounding. The carbon performance rig version comes with a furling boom, while the main is sheeted to an aft deck traveller on a flatwinder winch. Levet says the push/pull JP3 steering system ensures good helming sensitivity.

The deck layout gives plenty of relaxation space, while tankage and stowage looks generous, although there’s no dinghy garage, so davits will likely be needed.

By building in full sandwich construction, including all bulkheads and floors and some furniture, he calculates Wauquiez saved around three tonnes. It’s also a very stable shape so doesn’t require too much keel weight. “It’s like the Opium 39 we did 15 years ago – but built like a Swan,” Levet enthuses.

More natural light in the saloon with access to the large double cabin forward

The modern Roseo Design interior stands out for its natural light and sea views, whether you’re standing or sitting in the saloon and galley, or looking out from the 270° viewing angles from the aft master cabin.

The twin drives (50hp or 75hp) are accessed via a central walk-in engine room below the cockpit. Wauquiez’s theory here is to promote safety, lower consumption, more torque and speed. Couple this with the high-powered single or dual Integrel alternators, which give 8-16kW recharging, and there’s no need for a genset either. Wauquiez is also offering a parallel hybrid system for this 55 too.

There are two layouts, an owner’s version with beam wide cabin or a ‘long distance travel’ alternative, which reduces this aft cabin to offer a utility/laundry area. Both have a second vast double cabin forward, plus a Pullman.

The first yacht is in construction and Wauquiez plans to premiere it at Cannes Boat Show in September.

Wauquiez 55 specifications

LOA: 17.58m 57ft 8in Hull length: 16.4m 53ft 10in Beam: 5.25m 17ft 3in Draught: 2.4m 7ft 10in or 1.6m-4.2m 5ft3in-13ft9in Displacement (light): 20 tonnes Price: from €1.8m ex VAT Builder: wauquiez.com

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2023 Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 42

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• Yachting Monthly's Scuttlebutt
• Thread starter Seven Spades
• Start date 1 Feb 2016

• Seven Spades

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AndrewfromFal

Active member.

They are part of Groupe Beneteau, and IIRC that they share some common components (hulls) with other boats built by the group. YW tested a 48 Pilot House a few years ago and I think it came out quite well in terms of performance.  

Good friends of ours circumnavigated in the 40ft PS version and rated it very highly for the purpose.  

My centurion is 43 this year and is very well-built, tho' she has a few wrinkles.  

Went on one at Soton BS. Winches well set up for single handed  

The Centurions of the 1980's and 1990's were high quality fast cruisers for their time. Not sure if that quality has been passed into the more modern versions. The Kronos Catamaran was highly regarded in it's time  

No longer affiliated to Beneteau, as they were at pains to point out at Dusseldorf. Great boat, proper deck salon..can't recall length..  

Also do the rare but excellent Wauquiez 40 S2 aft cockpit / non deck saloon - very nice boats  

My understanding is that while owned by the same group they function as a independent factory and design and build their own boats. I went and saw my Jeanneau being built and there was no connection that I knew between Jeanneau boats and Beneteau boats except common ownership. It would be sensible if they combine purchasing power but not sure whether they even do that. IMHO They are well built boats build as owners versions only and sail well. They have picked their market position on build quality v cost and interior volume/comfort v sailing speed and its different to both jeanneau & benneteau.  

Sailfree said: My understanding is that while owned by the same group they function as a independent factory and design and build their own boats. I went and saw my Jeanneau being built and there was no connection that I knew between Jeanneau boats and Beneteau boats except common ownership. It would be sensible if they combine purchasing power but not sure whether they even do that. IMHO They are well built boats build as owners versions only and sail well. They have picked their market position on build quality v cost and interior volume/comfort v sailing speed and its different to both jeanneau & benneteau. Click to expand...

Back in the day they built top notch fast cruisers. I maintain that the Centurion 32 is the best boat I've ever sailed (and I've sailed a few!) We occasionally joke that Wauquiez is French for Swan. I'm afraid I know nothing of the modern versions though, other than they look a little generic and soulless.  

Judders said: Back in the day they built top notch fast cruisers. I maintain that the Centurion 32 is the best boat I've ever sailed (and I've sailed a few!). Click to expand...

Judders said: Back in the day they built top notch fast cruisers. I maintain that the Centurion 32 is the best boat I've ever sailed. Click to expand...

Just found an article by Toby Hodges that states that Beneteau owned Wauquiez for a decade up to 2010, but has been a separate entity since then.  

Judders said: Back in the day they built top notch fast cruisers. I maintain that the Centurion 32 is the best boat I've ever sailed (and I've sailed a few!) We occasionally joke that Wauquiez is French for Swan. I'm afraid I know nothing of the modern versions though, other than they look a little generic and soulless. Click to expand...

Metabarca said: Bless you, sir! I'll tell my Kyra: she'll blush with pleasure! Click to expand...

• 26 Jun 2016

I own a Wauquiez Centurion 45S from the era that Beneteau grouper owned Wauquiez. My understanding is that whilst there was some influence and a heavy investment in new plant Beneteau did not interfere too much with them. The 2008 crash put pay to Beneteaus higher sales of the quality brand and so was sold on. It has gone through a buy out and now seems to have stable management and seems to be doing well. I decided to go to Lille to collect an optional extra from the factory and had the opportunity to see their bespoke production facility shortly after the Düsseldorf show. The team there were very welcoming and extremely helpful then and now. Whilst I have only had her since November I have been very pleased with the yacht, she is well built, oozes quality, yet light and, stiff. Easy and fun to sail as a fast and comfortable passage maker regularly making 8 to 10 knots in lighter winds. My only issue is the 2.5m keel which limits some access to shallowest ports and bays BUT this helps give the great sail and if a real issue you can get a shoal draft. The pilot saloons have a similar reputation will more space and light below. The Aussies have called Wauquiez the French Swan. Quite a compliment. So far a big fan.  

There is a lovely French Wauquiez 40S moored behind us now. The stern cockpit sports cruiser type. A real connoisseurs boat, and very rare in the UK. A bit like a French Arcona. Very different from their deckhouse boats  

• 30 Jun 2016

First Mate and I were VERY tempted by a Pilot House which we looked over very carefully with the part time liveaboard owners. The deep draught and spade rudder counted against it for our type of sailing, although the undoubted light wind performance would have been nice. The quality was first rate. We were lucky enough to find our first choice-a fat 'ole cruising Motor Sailer with 1.1 metre draught and a supported rudder and a huge donk for when the wind will not suit. Wauquiez-very nice yachts IMHO.  

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