The Beneteau Oceanis 50, which heralds the fifth generation of the Oceanis range, went into production in April 2006, after well-received appearances at the London and Paris Boat Shows. Created 20 years after the production of the first Oceanis, she combines strong upwind and downwind performance with the comfort you would expect from other models in the Beneteau Oceanis range.

Manufactured in France by Beneteau, the exterior of the Oceanis 50 was created by French naval architect Berret Racoupeau. Although the exterior shape has been modernised, the Oceanis 50 retains the key features that made the earlier models a success, namely excellent natural light below decks, good ventilation, ease of movement around the boat, ergonomic cockpit and helm positions and ease of handling.

The interior of the Oceanis 50, created by Italian company Nauta Design, is fitted out in Moabi wood and stainless steel, and the white surfaces and large windows give a light and airy feel. However despite her generous accommodation and plush interior, the Oceanis 50 is also a powerful yacht with impressive sailing qualities. The attention to layout, with primary winches located within easy reach of the helm positions, and navigation instruments situated for optimum visibility, bears witness to the racing credentials of Beneteau boats.

In recent sea trials, in ideal conditions (10-15 knots of wind and calm sea state), the Oceanis 50 made for excellent sailing, with good visibility of every part of the deck from the helm and excellent sea penetration thanks to the sharp angle of entry at the bow. Since then Beneteau's own Oceanis 50 has sailed from the Vendee to Valencia for the America's Cup and an Oceanis 50 has made an appearance during Antigua Sailing Week. It's early days but the Oceanis 50 looks like it could be one for blue water cruising enthusiast to watch.

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