2000 Beneteau Oceanis 50

What really stands out on this Oceanis 50 is how manageable she feels for a couple. All sail controls are led aft, so reefing or trimming doesn’t mean leaving the safety of the cockpit. Visibility from the twin wheels is excellent, with clear sightlines past the low coachroof, making close-quarters maneuvering far less stressful. Underway, the long waterline and moderate displacement give a reassuring motion in a seaway, while still delivering respectable passage-making speeds. At anchor, generous tankage stretches your time off the dock, and the wide beam carries aft to create a surprisingly roomy lazarette for cruising gear, folding bikes, or a serious spares inventory.

This Oceanis 50 is particularly well-suited to the mixed conditions found here, where you can encounter lumpy seas offshore one day and light afternoon breezes the next. The hull form balances comfort and performance, tracking steadily in a swell yet still moving efficiently when the wind softens. The deep, secure cockpit inspires confidence when conditions pipe up, while the moderate draft lets you explore shallower anchorages and tucked-away coves. Ample interior volume makes weather days more pleasant, and the robust construction is a reassuring match for longer coastal hops or the occasional bluewater leg common to this cruising ground.