A new architect
Bénéteau has just announced the launch of the new Oceanis 40.1, a 12-metre cruising yacht that will replace the old Oceanis 41.1. While the interior and exterior design has been entrusted to Nauta Design - Bénéteau's longstanding partner on the Océanis range - the architecture and hull design have been entrusted to the Lombard firm (the other Océanis are Finot Conq or Berret Racoupeau designs).
Although the architect has been working with Jeanneau for a long time on the Sun Odyssey range, and was at the origin of the Figaro 2, this is a first for a Bénéteau. A choice that can no doubt be explained by the strategic choices made by the group's new CEO, Jérôme de Metz, to create more synergy between the different brands.
An ultra voluminous interior
Although the Oceanis 40.1 is the same size as Jeanneau's Sun Odyssey 410, the architecture firm worked in a completely different way. First of all, because at Jeanneau, Marc Lombard is also in charge of interior and deck design. The new hull signed Lombard is tuliped and has a step extending over the front third of the hull.
"While the Sun Odyssey 410 and the Océanis 40.1 are the same size, the second looks much larger. It is also 20 cm wider and offers a different layout. Compared to the Jeanneau, the cockpit is taller, there is more volume aft and the interior space is quite demonic" explains Éric Levet, a collaborating architect at the architectural firm. Bénéteau's specification was to create a boat capable of accommodating a variety of sailing programmes and therefore to be able to accommodate up to 4 cabins in a 12-metre boat. "The new hulls provide more volume at the front and therefore can accommodate a huge cabin or 2 smaller ones", adds Éric Levet.
4 layout versions
So, to suit all desires, the Oceanis 40.1 is available in 4 different layout versions: 2, 3 or 4 cabins. 2 versions of ballast and 3 sail plans are also available, including a performance version with an extended mast and greater draft. A furling mast and a self-tacking jib are standard for short-handed manoeuvres. Finally, a classic mast will receive a semi-full battened mainsail.
"In total, there were more than 20 versions for which the weight and stability specifications had to be studied in order to comply with the specifications. We optimize weights to make the boat as seaworthy and efficient as possible, working on shape stability and trying to minimize weight stability " says the architect.
A large cockpit
The two helm stations are set back at the stern, freeing up space forward for a large cockpit table and two bench seats for 6 guests. Sail manoeuvres return to the steering wheel level and the halyard and mainsheet winches are classically arranged on the roof.
Finally, the transom converts into a bathing platform, operated manually or electrically as an option.
Up to 4 cabins
In the owner's version (2 cabins), there are two double cabins - including a huge one at the bow - with a shower room, while in the 4-cabin version, the Océanis 40.1 will offer 3 double cabins as well as a small cabin with bunk beds at the bow.
A luminous square
The saloon on the port side has a removable bench and the chart table is positioned at the bottom of the bobstay companionway, but with its back to the road. The C-shaped galley in the starboard saloon offers plenty of storage space and a nice working area.
