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A new 45-foot cruiser designed for life on board
Presented at the Paris boat show in November 2025, the Sun Odyssey 455 is part of the latest generation of Jeanneau cruisers. Designed by Marc Lombard for the hull and Jean-Marc Piaton for the fittings, this yacht replaces the Sun Odyssey 490 with a sharper design, reinforced construction and optimized layout.
A U-shaped galley for cooking even in rough seas
This is undoubtedly the central element of the design: a u-shaped kitchen located to starboard, along the planking. We appreciate the return, which allows the cook to cook even while sailing, well secured, with access to all the equipment.
The layout includes :
- Two refrigerators (upright and chest)
- An oven
- Plenty of enclosed storage space
- An angular worktop
- A hood integrated under the fridge
Circulation around it is fluid, and the U-shaped return protects the cook well. It's a layout designed for those who really live aboard, not just for getting plates out at anchor or in port.
A spacious, bright and simple square
Opposite the galley, the saloon features a central fold-down table and facing seating. Light floods in through side and roof portholes. Headroom exceeds 1.95 meters in the center, giving a real sense of space.
The woodwork is sober, in keeping with the Jeanneau spirit: neither ostentatious luxury nor standardized furnishings. The upholstery is resistant, the handrails well positioned, and the indirect lighting provides discreet comfort.
Several versions, including an owner's cabin with private bathroom
The 455 is available in several versions:
- 3 cabins / 2 shower rooms
- 4 cabins / 2 shower rooms
- 3 cabins with workshop or technical room
The version visited at the show was a 3-cabin with a forward owner's cabin. The central bed is accessible from both sides, storage space is plentiful and well placed, and the private forward head includes a separate shower. Aft, the cabins are spacious and well ventilated, opening onto the cockpit.
Modular navigation station and optional equipment room
On the practical side, Jeanneau offers a chart table with a special nav' seat. It extends to become a sofa/reader, with even a small headrest cushion on top. Tried in the salon, it seems relevant. To be seen in use at sea.
Just behind the chart table, Jeanneau has installed a large, clever storage cupboard with all the drawers you need to store living space or equipment for a long cruise.
In some versions, one of the aft cabins is replaced by a technical room, providing space for a workshop, additional batteries or a washing machine. A truly useful option for long-distance sailors.
More upscale construction for the Sun Odyssey range
The Vendée-based builder opts for vacuum infusion construction, with a glass-polyester/balsa sandwich for the hull, and an injected deck. The result is greater rigidity, less unnecessary weight and greater long-term reliability. The ballast, weighing just under 2.7 tons, is secured in a reinforced well, with access for maintenance.
Backgrounds are clear, technical hatches accessible, and wiring ducts clearly identified. The quality of the details, invisible at first glance, has improved.
A coherent cruiser, without overload or gimmicks
The Sun Odyssey 455 doesn't try to do too much. Priced from ?369,600 incl. VAT, it's an affordable choice for long-distance cruising. At ?574,145 (incl. VAT) for the version on display, it comes fully equipped without going overboard.
It's clearly aimed at sailors who want a reliable, spacious and durable family cruiser. Not too much fashion or marketing concept: just a yacht that's well thought-out for living aboard, maneuverable with a reduced crew, and ready to take to the sea.
