One of the best-selling models in the Leader range
The Leader 715 WA is a 6.96 m SunDeck built in several hundred units. Offering great features, it features a small cabin with a double berth, and a large sunbathing area on the foredeck.
Offered only in outboard version, it is available on the second-hand market between ?25,000 and ?33,000 for the most recent versions.
A very comfortable unit
Michel has owned a Leader 715 WA since 2011:
" This is my third boat. I started with a Cadoret 4.75, designed for lake sailing but not for the Mediterranean. I soon moved on to a Leader 605 HB, which I kept for 15 years. But it unfortunately sank in 2010.
So I started looking for a new boat again. Like many, I opted for the extra meter, and with my wife, we set our sights on the Leader 715 WA, with a 225hp Mercury Verado. And the whole thing is very homogeneous. The step hull is extraordinary. Once it's up, it's very stable and gives us excellent handling, while remaining very comfortable ".
A coastal cruise program in the Mediterranean
Based in Le Lavandou, Michel and his wife are not the type to leave their boat in port.
" Our main activity is coastal sailing. Heading east, we went as far as the Gulf of Genoa, then visited the 5 Terres. Further west, we've already been as far as Grau du Roi. And for next summer, we plan to push on to Barcelona.
We alternate nights on board with hotel accommodation. Whenever possible, we also prefer to take our meals ashore.
We also offer day trips. We're just 20 minutes from Port Cros.
We sail at a cruising speed of 25 knots, which guarantees reasonable consumption of around 30 liters per hour. At top speed, our boat can reach 45 knots, but it's very rare for us to go that fast .
A major refit in 2022
With retirement just around the corner, Michel was considering a change of boat. After some quick brainstorming with his wife, it was decided to give this 10-year-old boat a facelift. As the Verado was beginning to show signs of weakness, Michel opted for a new Honda block developing 250 hp. The on-board electronics were replaced by a Simrad control unit, along with a Fusion sound system.
The dashboard has been replaced by a more modern black Plexiglas model. A fridge and electric windlass were installed. Last but not least, hull paint was applied to give the boat a fresh new look.
" The boat isn't even 15 years old! "Michel assures us.
What about defects?
" Only the design of the anchor locker is not optimal. The chain needs to be helped into the anchor locker to prevent it from settling.
The fuel inlet is not very well designed, and it's not uncommon to have a small backflow of fuel when I fill up, even after shortening the hose ".
A dynamic owners' association
Michel has joined the Leader owners' association:
" I've been a member of the association for two years. We took part in the big annual gathering, which invited around a hundred owners, with the support of the local Jeanneau dealerships. The Leader range includes models from 5 m to 12 m, so it's an opportunity to meet a wide variety of owners ".
