For several years now, the European Yacht of the Year has been rewarding the most successful yachts of the year. Cruising, racing, luxury, multihull or performance, all categories are represented. The winners will be revealed on the opening night of the German Boat Show, to be held from 18 to 26 January 2020.
In the category of luxury yachts, there are three contenders who represent the top end of the yacht building industry. These ships are not only distinguished by the way they sail, but also by the craftsmanship they demand and the aura they give off.
We are in the world of the privileged, since luxury yachts are not built and sold by the dozen, but only by the handful each year. They are a rare sight in most ports, respected and loved for their superb finish and style.
Some owners sail with them all over the world, even in high latitudes, as they are able to cope with them. Others simply use them for coastal navigation and enjoy their high level of comfort and refinement.
Here, quality, space and design account for the bulk of the jury's rating, while price and performance take a back seat.
Amel 60
It is now past the time of ketch from Amel. With the success of the Amel 50 - European Yacht of the Year 2018 - the shipyard has definitively abandoned the rigging of the past decades for that of the sloop. Nevertheless, the characteristics of the shipyard, namely the large, well-protected central cockpit, can be found on board.
The new Amel 60 is based on the concept of the Amel 50 with an extra level. It starts with the even greater space and finishes that a larger boat allows. However, the yard has not neglected performance by opting for a carbon mast as standard.
Grand Soleil 42 LC
The iconic Italian brand has redesigned its award-winning 46-foot yacht in a more compact and therefore even more popular format. Almost identical visually, the Grand Soleil 42 LC comes in a standard version with 2 cabins and offers plenty of storage space at the stern on the port side, making it an ideal choice for long cruises.
As an option, 3 cabins with double or twin berths are also available. In all cases, the layout offers two bathrooms with shower.
To facilitate manoeuvring, the boat is equipped with a self-tacking jib. On the performance side, it is possible to rig a zero code or asymmetrical spinnaker on a delphiniere, which will also allow the anchor to be moved away from the vertical bow during manoeuvres.
The interior design is contemporary with lots of natural light and a bright superstructure, creating a pleasant atmosphere that will remain timeless.
Discover the Grand Soleil 42 LC
Oyster 565
After a change of ownership The British luxury brand is back on track, as evidenced by the all-new Oyster 565. Nicknamed "mini-yacht", this sailboat is of incredible quality and offers some pretty special options. Its lines are more fluid than ever with a flush deck and a well-integrated roof, behind which the crew can enjoy the atmosphere of the deck saloon without being totally exposed to the view of everyone.
One of its unique features is the owner's forward cabin which includes a saloon and en-suite bathroom, a well thought-out alternative to the more classic owner's cabin.
