Timeless navigation
Wooden boats are a dream come true, and not only when they have beautiful sails... The Séol is a small motorboat of 5.50 m with a varnished mahogany deck and a superb red dress with a burgundy finish. Rounded windshield, removable deck searchlight, wooden steering wheel... This traditional boat, built in 2004, is the worthy heir of the runabouts of the 50s and 60s represented by Riva and others Chris Craft..
"Chloe, do you want to drive the smallest boat on the Grand Pavois, but the prettiest?" How can I refuse such an attractive proposition? Sitting at the helm of the Sèol for a sea trip around the Phare du bout du monde in La Rochelle, I sail down the channel, impatient to enjoy a timeless moment. The sea is flat, the sunset light is splendid making this moment magical... All I needed was a scarf on my head, a beige raincoat and butterfly glasses to be carried nearly 60 years back in time... Heroine from another time, at the controls of her mini "Riva"..
The Seol's ride is as smooth as its lines. Manoeuvring is easy, with quick changes of direction - hydraulic steering is a must - she handles the sea with delicacy, remains comfortable even when a little chop rises and responds perfectly to her day trip programme. Have a good time at sea, admire the scenery, the sailing boats in the distance, the nearby coast... A real "little" epicurean boat..
Yet with its 90 hp Evinrude engine, the Sèol easily reaches a speed of 33 knots. An engine that can be discreet and does not disturb the cruise in any way. This model is also equipped with a water ski and wakeboard mast for water sports enthusiasts.
Two comfortable armchairs are installed behind the windshield, and there is a bench for two people behind. In the standard version, the Séol has a large sunbathing area at the rear. But here, the owner has chosen to truncate this comfort element to install a trunk containing the necessary equipment for water sports. The new owner will decide whether to keep this layout or to return to the standard version.
To protect from the sun, the Sèol is equipped with a bimini and a full awning. On board, there is storage under the foredeck, accessible at the foot of the helm station and all the equipment to enjoy a swim at anchor: mahogany swim ladder and 60 L fresh water shower.
This second hand model as beautiful as a new one with the hull repainted, the engines overhauled and will find its new owner for the sum of 58 000 euros. It is also possible to opt for a new build - which you can adapt to your wishes with numerous customisation options - for 92,000 euros with engine but without trailer.
For lovers of wood and beautiful construction
The Sèol is built in wood-epoxy composite, hull in marine plywood and glass/epoxy lamination, with a solid mahogany deck varnished by the Franck Roy shipyard in 2004. Only two examples are produced. Designed according to the plans of Yann Dilasser and Gildas Plessis, the Sèol is a splendid classic motorboat.
At 550 kg, it is easily transportable on a single-axle trailer. Launching is easily done by 2 people, thanks to the articulated drawbar and the winch placed on the trailer.
- Length: 5.50 m
- Draft: 320 mm
- Width: 2.10 m
- Motorization : Outboard 90 hp
- Unladen travel: 550 kg
- Places : 5
