A smaller unit for a new clientele
The Amel shipyard in La Rochelle unveils the first images of its new model, the Amel 50 a 15 m unit (the smallest model) designed by the architectural firm Berret-Racoupeau, which completes the range already composed of the Amel 55 and Amel 64. With this smaller unit at a more affordable price - whose rigging and hull have been redesigned - the yard is targeting a new clientele, with varied sailing programmes: long cruises, short term sailing, more sporty sailing, with two or more people.
"Amel 50 is a high-performance sailboat, very comfortable and always imbued with Amel know-how. Of course, Amel 50 is designed to be able to travel around the world. But with easy access to ports and marinas thanks to a less demanding hull length, navigation programmes are diversified" indicates the site in its press release.
A sloop rig that replaces the usual ketch
This 15 m unit will not be rigged in ketch (representative of the site), but in sloop since the model is smaller than the others. "This format is not new in itself, however, since many sloops have already been released from the site in the past" says the press release. This type of rigging has also made it possible to extend the central cockpit (which was already found on the previous units) and which makes it possible to bring all the winches back to the centre of the boat to facilitate manoeuvres.
"The evolution of on-board techniques, such as the motorization of reels, makes it much easier to manoeuvre a 50-foot sloop today and does not require the ketch rig to remain on this boat size" explains architect Olivier Racoupeau.
To facilitate navigation, the Amel 50 will be equipped with sail furling and electric winches, a self-turning staysail and all controls will be centralized in the deep cockpit and protected by a rigid roof canopy. For safety, a stainless steel balcony surrounds the deck.
A new hull for a smaller model
The hull of the Amel 50 is also new to perfectly match this smaller model. It is proportionally wider, tighter and flatter, with bi-safrans, a first for Amel.
"The choice of a straight and powerful bow disrupts the work site's habits. While lengthening the waterline to improve performance, it gives more volume to the front part of the boat. The addition of a delphinière allows both to move the anchor and the chain away from the bow, but also to amur an additional sail such as an asymmetrical spinnaker or an O" code develops the site in its press release.
The wide, flattened stern - with a master midship extending to the stern, makes the boat more stable and comfortable at sea. It is this characteristic that has led the yard to opt for the bi-safran, which allows the boat to remain manoeuvrable under sail. "The safety principle is also maintained with the splitting of the rudder and the positioning of the rudder bits in the completely waterproof afterpeak." specifies the site.
The livet has been reversed. That is to say, the slight convex curve at the level of the main beam allows to keep a nice height under the beam, to keep space in the living areas. Extended by the delphinière, the inverted rim also refines the profile of the superstructure.
A comfortable outdoor layout and a bright interior
The large central cockpit, which is found on all models of the Amel shipyard, guarantees the owner, thanks to its rigid shelter and depth, great protection during navigation. The open cockpit extends aft through sunbathing areas that increase the outdoor living space.
The Amel 50 has three cabins: a large owner's cabin over the full width of the boat at the stern with its bathroom, a double cabin at the tip and a cabin with two bunks on the starboard side. The latter two share a bathroom. "There are many storage spaces, whether under beds and benches, not to mention closets and wardrobes." specifies the site.
The galley, positioned in a passageway to starboard, offers a very generous living space in the saloon, while maintaining optimal ergonomics. The chart table is located to the left of the descent and communicates directly with the entire square. The height under the beam is high in air and the space is very bright thanks to the large hull windows and skylights, and by the direct and indirect lighting.
