60 ft sail yacht

Oceanis 30.1

Oceanis 34.1, oceanis 37.1, oceanis 40.1, oceanis 46.1, oceanis 51.1.

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The Oceanis cruising yacht will tempt you to surf the seas, driven by the wind and your wanderlust, with the promise of simple comfortable sailing at all times. These stylish cruisers have clean lines and a flared hull, and they have become the gold standard of cruising. They are balanced and spacious , and they have been designed so that each passenger enjoys their time aboard and to make trips to sea about sharing fun in good company.

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A dream that the Oceanis cruiser makes possible for any sailor thanks to easy handling and a standard designed for easy sailing. With just two winches and a self-tacking jib at the bow, tacking is like child's play. Fitted with two rudders, the Oceanis cruising yachts are extremely safe giving you confidence and allowing you to enjoy the pleasure of sailing.

Remarkably Comfortable

The Oceanis cruisers range from 30 to 51 feet long, and they all focus on comfort – sailing comfort, comfort at harbour or at anchor, comfort for the whole crew. With their impressive cockpit and generous spaces inside, they have been designed to accommodate family and friends in the best possible conditions. On deck, the relaxation areas are simply ideal for making the most of the sun and the sea air, while the crew can move around the boat unhindered.  The hull and overall design of the Oceanis is extremely well balanced and all the boats in the line have great seakeeping, which contributes to the overall feeling of comfort aboard. 

Numerous Configurations

The Oceanis comes in many different layouts , so that everyone can enjoy sailing the way they want to.  Layout plans tailored to each model provide the ideal configuration to enjoy the sea with family and friends . Versatility is also the name of the game on deck, with varying equipment and sail plans, including Performance versions offering greater actions – chosen in keeping with your sailing programme.  

The flared hull increases the space inside the boat, with no performance drawbacks under sail. These three features of balance, performance, and space make the Oceanis the ideal cruising yacht.

The Oceanis cruisers are a great source of inspiration for your navigation programme.

The epitome of cruising, the Oceanis sailing yacht is the perfect place to be for anyone who loves happy times at sea with family or friends.  Since the Oceanis is easy to handle and well-balanced to helm, you can explore the coast or enjoy cruising the ocean to far-off destinations. The structure and layout of the whole line is inherently comfortable, so you can breezily and effortlessly clock up the miles at sea. And at anchor, the large aft platform makes going for a swim effortless.

All Oceanis news

Oceanis 37.1: A Legacy of Harmony

The new 37 footer capitalizes on the innovations of the seventh generation of Oceanis Cruisers, which it finishes. The eighth model launched by BENETEAU since 2017 completes the line – a market gold standard.

Nautic boat show 2022 : Spotlight on remarkable sustainable innovations at BENETEAU

BENETEAU has decided to follow the path of innovation to reduce the environmental impact of sailing. Practical yet ground-breaking innovations that were visible on the First 44e and the Oceanis 30.1e sailing yachts world premiered at the Nautic Boat Show in Paris.

2022 BENETEAU Cup : Off the Coast of Malta

More than 120 participants gathered in the port of Valletta in Malta, from 18 to 19 November, for a friendly meeting to indulge in the joys of sailing.

Models of the range

Length Overall

9.53 m / 31’3’’

Beam overall

2.99 m / 9’10’’

10.77 m / 35’4’’

3.57 m / 11’9’’

11.93 m / 39’2’’

3.92 m / 12’10’’

12.87 m / 42’3’’

4.18 m / 13’9’’

14.6 m / 47’11’’

4.5 m / 14’9’’

15.94 m / 52’4’’

4.8 m / 15’9’’

Former Oceanis

"The basis for reflection on a Cruiser would be the Idylle [...].  François Chalain would choose Philippe Briand 3 and, in a few months, they would create the Oceanis 350 and then the 430. The wager paid off, and success was instant. The production lines would fill up again."

Annette Roux - 130 years of commitment to the sea

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The finest 50 to 90 foot bluewater cruisers

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For 50 years, our mission has been simple: to design, build and support the finest, luxury liveaboard sail boats, capable of taking you anywhere in the world in complete comfort and safety.

Our fleet of 50 foot to 90 foot new luxury sailing yachts for sale includes the new Oyster 495, Oyster 565, Oyster 595, Oyster 675, Oyster 745 and the Oyster 885 SII  and Oyster 885 GT – our largest sailing yachts and the flagships of the Oyster fleet .

Our new sailing boats are handcrafted in Great Britain. Developed by sailors for sailors, each Oyster displays the finest material, a meticulous attention to detail and an unparalleled standards of quality. Evolved and refined over half a century, today’s fleet remains true to Oyster’s founding principles – pioneering design, uncompromising strength of construction, exhilarating performance, quality finish and liveaboard luxury.

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Winner of European Yacht of the Year 2023. She is a new breed of luxury 50 foot yacht, offering effortless shorthanded sailing capability.

A magnificent, award-winning sub 60 foot sailing yacht, offering luxurious living space and outstanding shorthanded sailing capability.

A beautifully proportioned 60 foot, luxury liveaboard bluewater cruiser, offering effortless shorthanded sailing capability.

A superb sub 70 foot ocean sailboat offering versatile luxury living space and impeccable sailing performance.

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Used Yachts For Sale From 61 To 70 Feet

Listed below are used yachts for sale worldwide from 61 to 70 feet. Use the search tools to narrow your exploration. SYS Yacht Sales offers a wide range of used yachts for sale, including long range cruisers, motor yachts, trawlers, sportfish yachts, flybridge yachts, sailboats and everything in between. Search top brands like Azimut, Ferretti, Hatteras, Sunseeker, Princess, Sea Ray, Viking, Grand Banks, Riviera and much more. Need assistance? Contact our experienced yacht brokers. We look forward to helping you find the yacht that's right for you.

Johnson Motor Yacht w/Flybridge

Johnson 70' flybridge.

Johnson JOHNSON 70' Skylounge 2025

Johnson 70' skylounge m/y.

Ocean Voyager Long Range

Pershing 70

Viking 70 Convertible

Outer Reef Yachts 700 MY

Zero Dimension

Pershing 7X

Sunseeker Manhattan 70

Knight & Carver 70 MOTOR YACHT

Princess 67 Flybridge

Built upon contract 2025

Hatteras 70 Convertible

CDK Technologies MOD 70 ( hull # 3)

President 680 Skylounge

Hatteras 70 Cockpit Motor Yacht

Hatteras 70 Motor Yacht

Johnson 70' Skylounge Motor Yacht

Johnson 70 skylounge new.

Bertram 700 Enclosed

Santa Cruz 70

Ocean Alexander Pilothouse Motor Yacht

Island girl.

Chardonnay III

Viking 70 Enclosed Bridge

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Better Sailing

Best Sailboats Over 60 Feet

In recent years, sailboats and yachts 60 feet have become very popular. This development is mainly due to the demand for comfort among boat enthusiasts and boaters. Advancement in technology has made it easier for simple boat users to handle large-sized boats without a boat crew’s help. Innovations such as bow thrusters help with mooring, and improvement in deck-gear technology has made sailing less difficult. 

It is no gainsaying that, to a great extent, larger boats are more comfortable; there is more space for more luxurious rooms and amenities. If it were a car, we’d say, “there’s more legroom.” 

Below, we have described the best bluewater sailboats that are above 60 feet. If you love large boats and are looking to buy one, it is hoped that this list will inform your purchase and help you to know what to look out for as you make your purchase.

Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 62

Price: From 900k to 1.5 Million USD on the Used Market

Designed by Barret Racoupeau Yacht Design and the Pierreangelo Andreani, the Beneteau Oceanis Yacht is quite elegant. Inside, this sailboat has a wide salon that can take a mass of people. The boat possesses six sunbathing areas; these bathing areas have loungers in different parts. It also has a gallery that makes for a comfortable view around the deck.

Furthermore, this Beneteau boat has two steering stations close to the cockpit. The controls and resources are ergonomic and designed for functionality with resources such as drink holders and halyard bags. In the cockpit, there are storage lockers on each side, and a dinghy garage can be accessed through the floor. There are also instruments to ensure effective and safe dinghy launching in case of any emergencies or problems while at sea. 

Its master suite, a feature which the Beneteau boat is well known for, is a large space with two hanging lockers, portholes on both sides, and a relatively large island bed. There’s room designed for an office, bench, or set of drawers. 

The galley of this elegant yacht is enabled with a 300-liter refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, an oven, a wine cellar, waste-sorting garbage, and space for storage. There are portholes all around the hull of the boat, which create a situation where there is plenty of natural sunlight inside the boat all day round. 

Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 62 Specifications 

Overall length: 62.86 feet.  Hull Length: 59.48 feet.  Light displacement: 57558.287 pounds.  Hull beam: 17.486 feet. Fuel tank capacity: 264.172 US gallons.  Freshwater capacity: 280.0224 US gallons.  Engine power: 167.674 mechanical horsepower. 

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Over 50 Feet

The Oyster 675 cannot be talked about without the mention of its U-shaped galley. This shape provides enough space for sailors to explore their culinary skills. The boat possesses extended transoms that create a wonderful space for sunbathing and other outdoor activities. With smooth-looking decks and interior, this boat is pretty pleasing to the eyes. 

If you love traveling with your family or a crew, you can hardly buy a better boat than the Oyster 675. It is just suitable for cruising along the coast with a few people; enjoying the water and scenery. Even more, this sub-60-foot blue water sailing yacht is also perfect for long distances.

In addition, the Oyster 675 makes our best 60-feet boat list for many other features that it possesses, such as its strong G6 twin rudder hull, its hydraulic push button, its perfect, luxurious owner’s garden, and its variety of rooms for other members of the crew. The hull of this boat is Lloyd certified, the same as its deck molding.

Oyster 675 Specifications 

Overall length: 69.2 feet.  Hull length: 65. 23 feet.  Waterline length: 18.31 feet.  Beam length: 18.6 feet. Engine: Volvo Penta D4-180 132 (180HP)  Fuel tank: 470 US gallons.  Water tank: 335 US gallons. 

>>Also Read: Best Catamarans Over 50 Feet

Hallberg Rassy 64

Price: Around 2 Million USD on The Used Market

Hallberg-Rassy’s official website describes this boat as the best to ever be made by the company. With impeccable, glistening woodwork and windows for natural light all day long, the Hallberg-Rassy 64 provides a very sophisticated look. Altogether, its hull possesses six windows and 31 portlights. If lighting is an important criterion in choosing boats for you, then the Hallberg-Rassy is a perfect choice. 

The engine room of this boat is easily accessible and spacious. It can be accessed through the walk-in and can house various mechanical equipment such as the boat’s 230 v 8 kW 50 Hz generator. Also, the boat’s saloon, like its engine, is spacious. It can comfortably accommodate a whole crew and more guests. 

The Hallberg-Rassy’s 64 cockpit is about 10.17 feet long. It contains a magnetic compass, enough space for navigation instruments, and electric push buttons assigned to different important functions. 

The hull of this boat is equipped with different measures against corrosion, rust, and other processes that make rid a vessel of its elegance. Applied at different parts of the hull are Gelcoat and anti-fouling paint. The deck contains scuppers that drain under the waterline in order to always keep the hull clean. 

Hallberg-Rassy 64 Specifications 

Hull length: 65.1 inches.  Beam length: 17 inches.  Keel type: Lead on deep bilge.  Keel weight: 28,000 pounds.  Waterline length: 57.6 inches.  Freshwater tank capacity: 344 US gallons.  Diesel tank capacity: 476 US gallons.  Engine: Volvo Penta D6-300. 

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 100k

Premier Dixon 62

Price: Around 500k Used

Premier Dixon 62 is a luxury bluewater cruising yacht. Since its hull is made of steel, this luxury yacht is suitable for traveling long distances at sea. With six berths in three cabins, this boat can comfortably house a family. It is equipped with various equipment and possesses adequate equipment for ease and comfort. 

This yacht was designed by Bill Dixon. Ingeniously, not only is its hull made of steel, but most of its superstructures are also made of the same material. This yacht also possesses a round bilge with a long keel to complement its base.

Like the Hallberg Rassy 64, this boat possesses a walk-in engine room. Its cockpit is also easily accessible as it is in the center. The yacht uses a wheel but is equipped with various electronic machinery for movement. 

Premier Dixon 62 Specifications 

Overall length: 62 inches.  Length on deck: 60 inches.  Waterline length: 49.5 inches.  Displacement: 40 tons.  Fuel tank capacity: 450 gallons.  Freshwater capacity: 200 gallons.  Blackwater capacity: 46 gallons.  Engine: Perkins 225 HP six-cylinder diesel engine. 

>>Also Read: Best Liveaboard Sailboats

Price: Around 600k Used

The Swan 65 is another boat on our list that was designed by the legendary German Frers. There are not many boats, cruisers, or yachts with woodwork like this one. Its finishing is done with quality European Oak. 

The Swan 65 comes with two types of interior, thanks to the creative genius of the interior designer, Heini Gustafsson. These two models are Owner Forward and Owner Aft. The only difference between these two models is the layout and placement of materials such as furniture; the purpose of the difference being flexibility and fluidity.

The deck of this boat is designed with straight elegant parallel lines. The spaces between the lines are all of the same brownish color but different shades. The Swan’s 65’s cockpit possesses five winches stationed close to two helm stations; it can house a small racing team without qualms. If you need a flexible, versatile boat, the Nautor’s Swan 65 is the way to go.

Swan 65 Specifications

Overall length: 65.98 feet.  Waterline length: 18.38 feet.  Beam: 18.44 feet.  Light displacement: 60,075 pounds. Engine: Volvo D3-150. 110 kw, 150 HP.  Ballast: 14.484 pounds.  Draught (Standard fixed keel): 13.78 feet.  Fuel tank capacity: 317 US gallons.  Water tank capacity: 264 US gallons.  Greywater capacity: 53 US gallons.  Blackwater capacity: 53 US gallons. 

>>Also Read: Best Small Sailboats To Sail Around The World

Jeanneau 64

Price: From 900k to 1.4 Million USD on the Used Market

The Jeanneau 64 design was brought about by a collaborative effort between Phillipe Briand, Andrew Winch, and Jeanneau design. With interior woodwork made from teak and natural oak, the interior part of this boat has a modern look. There is a lot of natural light coming in through the hull windows and the portlight. 

Like the Swan 64, the deck of the Jeanneau 64 is designed with parallel lines. Coupled with the modern ambiance of the interior part, these classic straight lines give this boat a classy, timeless appearance. Even more appealing is the Foglizzo leather used in decorating the furniture in the saloon and other areas. 

This boat can be divided into three or four cabins and can fit a sizeable crew; it is well-suited for a family adventure at sea. The boat comes in two versions: the Deep keel draft and the Shoal keel draft. If you want a boat with a simple galley, simple specifications, and simple control mechanisms all mixed with elegance, the Jeanneau 64 is your go-to boat. 

Jeanneau 64 Specifications 

Overall length: 65.11 inches.  Hull length: 64.2 inches.  Hull beam: 17.9 inches.  Displacement: 68, 343 pounds.  Fuel capacity: 218 US gallons. Water capacity: 264 US gallons.  Engine: Volvo 180HP / 132KW.

>>Also Read: Jeanneau 64 Review

Price: Around 1 Million USD on the Used Market

The Amel 60 is an upgrade from the former boat in the Amel series, the Amel 50. It possesses a carbon mast that makes movement and maneuvering much easier. The well-balanced hull shaped is also partially responsible for this feature. Other quality technological equipment that make this Amel peculiar are a lithium service battery, electric winches, carbon gangway, autopilot, and other navigation electronics. 

Inside the Amel 60 is a huge owner suite and two luxurious guest cabins. The boat has watertight collision bulkheads that make it very difficult for it to drown in any situation. Its cockpit is well covered so that the steering station is protected and the vessel can continue moving in adverse weather conditions. Like many well-designed boats, the engine room of this Amel is centrally accessible. 

The Amel brand known all over Europe and other continents for their quality boats, and they have not fallen short of their standard in the construction of Amel 60.

Amel 60 Specifications 

Overall length: 62.34 feet.  Length of hull: 59.06 feet.  Waterline length: 52.49 feet.  Max beam: 17.55 feet.  Waterline beam: 14.86 feet. Air draft: 85.30 feet.  Freshwater tank capacity: 184.92 US gallons.  Diesel tank capacity: 237.76 US gallons.  Mainsail area: 839.59 square meters.  Staysail area: 387.501 square meters.  Genoa area: 990.28 square meters. 

>>Also Read: Best Pocket Cruisers Under 20 Feet

Bavaria C65

Price: Around 1.2 Million USD on the Used Market

The Bavaria C65 is the biggest yachts that have ever been built by the Bavaria yacht brand. Somewhat like the Swan 64, the Bavaria C5 has a myriad of interior layout options that buyers and intending buyers can choose from. 

This yacht is quite fast and can be used to race. It can also be used as a blue water cruiser. The hull of this magnificent yacht has really nice windows that complement its shape. These windows are also instrumental in providing natural light for the interior of the boat. What’s more? It possesses a large bathroom that also happens to be a dinghy garage. This encourages activities such as sunbathing. 

No doubt, the interior of the Bavaria C65 is everything to write home about. Its owner’s cabin is pretty grand, just as its salon and even its pantry. The yacht displays another level of luxury. It eschews features that are quite modern as it was constructed in 2018. 

Bavaria C65 Specifications 

Overall length: 62.81 feet.  Overall beam: 17.7165 feet.  Sail area: 2292.71 square foot.  Draft: 8.69 / 11.48 inches.  Displacement: 55115.56 pounds. 

Price: From 600k to 800k USD on the Used Market

This boat was designed by Bill Dixon in conjunction with Roel de Groot. In its construction, nothing was spared in trying to make the Moody 64 a masterpiece, just as it turned out. Its hull is made chiefly of fiberglass, cored and mixed with a host of other materials to make it even stronger. 

The cockpit of this Moody 64 is divided between a somewhat higher position aft and the more spacious main cockpit area that can house about six people. This main area enables better control of the boat and contains most of the steering electronics. However, the higher station offers a better view of the water. 

Designed by Roel de Groot, the interior of the Moddy 64 looks quite alluring and, at the same time, manages to look a tad utilitarian. There are stairs all around for movement from one station to another. The salon has a dinette that is C-shaped, designed to create ample space for other activities that go on in the room. Also, this boat provides plenty of natural light through windows, portlights, and hatches. 

What’s more? Apart from the dinette, the Moody 64 has a U-shaped galley that possesses ample space for many kinds of culinary activities and equipment. It is worthy to note that this boat comes equipped with different kinds of machinery to make life aboard more comfortable. If you need a boat that is functional but with a perfect blend of pleasure, you will not find many that are better than the Moody 64.

Moody 64 Specifications

Overall length: 63.5 feet.  Waterline length: 54.3 feet.  Beam: 17.6 feet.  Shoal keel: 6.6 feet.  Draft: 8.6 / 6.6 feet.  Sail area: 1,794 square feet. Ballast: 22,000 pounds.  Displacement (half pound): 66,220 pounds.  Water tank capacity: 360 gallons.  Fuel tank capacity: 528 gallons.  Mast height 87.11 feet.  Engine: YANMAR 4LHA-STE (230HO-169.3kw) 

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 30 Feet

X-Yachts IMX 70

Price: Around 1.1 Million USD on the Used Market

With a high-tech hull and deck, the IMX 70 is technologically optimized. The yacht was built through a collaboration between some of the best marine constructors and construction firms in Europe. 

The IMX 70 possesses a carbon fiber mast, a carbon hull, and its deck construction is made up of carbon composite bulkheads keel floor structures. Furthermore, this yacht is equipped with a carbon fiber furling bottom, elite hydraulic systems, and keel floor structures. 

The interior of this high-tech boat possesses about four cabins and 8 berths; hence, it can house a good number of people. There is plenty of natural light coming through the windows. The IMX 70, as aforementioned, is technologically equipped, thereby making life easier for all the people on board. Teak veneers are used on the panels covering the carbon bulkheads. 

The IMX 70 is a great boat if you are looking for comfortable technology that is easy to use. It also has ample space for a crew or a family to carry out different activities while onboard.

X-Yachts IMX 70 Specifications

Overall length: 70.2 feet.  Waterline length: 61.1 feet.  Beam: 17.7 feet.  Draft:13.5 feet.  Displacement: 61,729 pounds.  Engine: Yanmar 4LHA-HTP diesel engine.  Fuel tank capacity: 185 US gallons.  Fresh water capacity: 238 US gallons.  Maximum speed: 13 mph.  Cruising speed: 9 mph. 

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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August 2024

In the August 2024 issue of Yachting World magazine: News Few finish a tempestuous Round The Island Race European rules are eased for cruising to France and Greece Olympic sailing…

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

What is behind the surge in new 60ft plus yacht designs and can you sail one safely without pro crew?

• Toby Hodges
• January 13, 2017

New yacht design has taken a giant leap in average length. Toby Hodges reports on the boom in big boats

Looking along the row of new yachts berthed stern-to at Cannes Boat Show in September, it seems impossible that just a few years ago a yard might hold up its 55-footer as the flagship of its fleet. In 2016, it’s the new yachts between 55ft and 80ft from the production yards that really stand out. So what has changed? Why the sudden surge in new large yachts and is it really possible to sail them without professional crew?

The 60ft plus market represents only around 120 yachts worldwide per year, but according to Oyster CEO David Tydeman, there is a need for variety. “Where Beneteau likes the fact that we series-build €5m boats, we like the fact that Beneteau does €1m series builds,” he says. “It brings people into the industry.”

Customers range from those wanting short-term sailing holidays and second home use, to those exercising long held dreams to sail offshore in the utmost comfort. It’s a wide range of people being targeted by a wide range of brands and from the list of boats yet to be launched, it’s evident that the majority of builders have bet against this size segment being a passing fad.

Who is building new yachts over 60ft?

The volume production yards have been growing their flagship models, mostly launched in the last year or two, to fulfil demand in the 55-65ft sector. This is perhaps indicative of an increasing number of impulsive buyers on today’s new yacht market; those who don’t want to wait for a couple of years for their yacht are going to be more attracted to the volume-built boats.

Models over 65ft are typically still the domain of luxury bluewater cruising brands, such as Oyster and Contest; prestige brands, such as CNB and Euphoria; or performance semi-custom designs from the likes of Swan, Solaris, Mylius and Advanced Yachts. Highlights include X-Yachts’s 65ft X6 (see X6 on test ), the Grand Soleil 58 Performance; Mylius’ striking new 76; the Turkish Euphoria 68 (see Euphoria 68 on test ) and the luxurious new Contest 67CS ( see video review here ), not to mention the new Oysters 675 and 745.

Contest 67CS: The owner of this first 67CS started sailing in Norway in September 2009, aged 40. Since then he has owned two yachts, completed an ARC crossing and sailed with his wife in the Caribbean five times a year. “We were looking for a bigger yacht for longer stays but which we can still sail with the two of us.” They plan to sail the boat themselves, but add that for “maintenance and preparations it is smart to have professionals who know our Contest 67CS.”

At the 60ft plus size range, yards have to be flexible to be competitive. Prospective buyers expect their yachts to be semi-customised; rather than simply ticking options boxes, they want the yard to listen to their individual choices, styles and needs.

Volume producers will offer a lengthy list of layouts, fabrics and finishes, while the high-end builders will typically offer major hull variations, including different transom designs, rig options, and appendage types, with interior layouts only really constrained by watertight bulkheads. Those braving the first of a new model line may get extra privileges in this respect.

Mylius 76: In many ways, Mylius’s yachts are a total contrast to the large, luxury cruising yachts of northern European yards. The all-carbon builds are super-minimalist throughout; modern turbo-charged Italian head-turners for smoking across the Med in style and enjoying the odd regatta. Pictured right is the flush-deck version. The deck saloon model (far right interiors) is novel and niche – a fascinating combination of space, speed and style.

High volume production

Of the volume yards, Hanse arguably led the way with its 630e back in 2006, 70 of which were built. Equally impressive is that the German yard then went on to sell 175 of its 575 in the last four years. This year Hanse launched the 675, its largest volume production yacht to date.

Hanse consistently wows with its loft-style interiors – more like a luxury apartment in fact on this, its largest model yet, the new 675.

Groupe Beneteau brands all now have yachts in the 60ft plus size range. The Bordeaux 60 caused a stir when it launched in 2008 – hull number 46 is in build – bringing trappings of superyacht glamour to the production market. The follow-up CNB 76 made a striking debut at Cannes in 2013. This contemporary Briand design uses an innovative construction method to reduce build time and cost. Seventeen of the €2m 76s have now sold, leading CNB to commission designs for a new smaller sister, the 66 (see page 33). To give some indication as to the demand at this size, CNB has already sold eight of the smaller yachts despite only releasing initial designs in September, and has also just announced it will take on 100 more workers to meet demand.

CNB 76: The 76 is a powerful yet elegant yacht with a well-camouflaged deck saloon, proper crew accommodation and a practical tender garage. A modular build scheme allows CNB to construct the entire interior of the 76 outside of the hull, dramatically reducing build time (to six months) and cost. The win-win result is superyacht styling and engineering, yet with a serial production price starting at €2m.

Unlike CNB, which is originally a builder of large custom yachts, the other volume production yards and Groupe Beneteau brands are upsizing. Superyacht designers Philippe Briand and Andrew Winch collaborated to produce one of the most successful of these – the Jeanneau 64 launched in 2014. It marries the worlds of big boat design, luxury and comfort with production boat pricing – its base price was kept below €1m – offering 10ft more yacht than an equivalent-priced semi-custom model.

Sister brand Beneteau has now followed suit with its Oceanis Yachts 62 this year. This is the first of a new luxury range from 53-73ft for which Beneteau went to a motorboat designer to find new styling solutions. The result is a bold look and a host of new comfort solutions throughout. Also, the goal with the pricing was even more ambitious than Jeanneau – its €650,000 base price shows how competitive pricing has become, even at this size level.

Oceanis Yachts 62: Beneteau is arguably the most innovative production yacht brand. Here it’s taken ideas and styling from its motorboat side to create this first of an entirely new line. The 62 brings a commendable feeling of luxury both on deck and below, plus has a proper tender launching solution for a Williams Jet Rib. The crunch part? Its base price starts at just €650,000.

Dufour will have a new 63ft flagship as of January, which, like the Oceanis Yachts, is the first of a new premium-end ‘Exclusive’ range.

All of which leaves Bavaria as the last big volume yard without a 60-footer. This is mainly down to its in-line production method, which has, to date, limited the maximum length of yacht it can build. However this summer Bavaria changed the set-up of one of its production lines to address this limitation, so we can presume that it’s only a question of time before the largest sailing Bavaria model yet is announced.

The practicalities

Large yachts are getting ever easier to handle. Push-button electrics and hydraulics that allow loads to be managed reliably have created new possibilities for managing sizable yachts short-handed. Thrusters – both bow and stern – are the norm at this size and can alleviate concerns with mooring, while advances in deck-gear technology have made sail-handling much easier.

As in the car industry, space has become king. Added length in yachts can bring increased comfort, elegance and speed, but there are downsides. With extra volume and weight comes a linear increase in the size and cost of each bit of deck gear and rigging needed to bear the extra loads.

Sailing a push-button power-assisted yacht might be a one-person affair, but managing and maintaining it is a different prospect altogether. Large yachts increase the crew’s dependence on powered systems and machinery, from gensets, watermakers, air con and thrusters to the hydraulics needed to operate winches, sail systems, garage doors etc. Keeping such a yacht shipshape is likely to involve a great deal of time afloat servicing machinery, or regular shore periods and pit stops. The less mechanically minded owners will probably need to employ a skipper or paid hand for this purpose.

Solaris: Once a custom yacht builder, Solaris has become a serial manufacturer of premium performance cruisers. Its range now spans from 37-72ft, with an Acebal-designed 55 and 68 in the pipeline.

Need for crew?

Up until 2011, when Hallberg-Rassy brought out its HR64, a yacht that was designed specifically for two people to sail and manage, I would have said that 57ft was the transition point from owner-operated yacht to crewed yacht. But yachts have continued to grow since then.

Skip Novak, who runs two expedition yachts – one 54ft and the other 74ft – says: “We can do things with [the 54ft] Pelagic that we wouldn’t dare do with Pelagic Australis . Pelagic is ‘man-handleable’, while the big boat at 74ft and 55 tonnes displacement is not. The systems on the smaller boat are by nature simpler, and the cruises usually are more trouble-free technically.”

Most new yachts over the 55ft mark have the option for a crew cabin of some sort. The big question is, are you happy sharing your yacht with paid hands? For temporary quarters, during a short charter for example, the forepeak-style box that is self-contained away from the rest of the accommodation may be all that is required in terms of accommodation. But for any owners seeking a longer-term crew – and wishing to retain reliable crew for any period of time – a more comfortable arrangement within the interior, like the use of a Pullman cabin, is necessary.

The current Oyster range spans the crossover between owner-operated yachts and crewed yachts, which helps to illustrate where the actual dividing line between the two might lie. For example, none of the 20 Oyster 625 owners uses a skipper full-time, although three of the 20 use skippers for when the boat is in charter mode. The new 675, which has been developed as a larger version of the 625, is also designed to be a yacht that can be owner-run. The new 745 on the other hand, which also launched this September, is designed to be run with two professional crew.

I sailed with Tim and Sybilla Beebe six years ago on a passage test of an Oyster 575 from Palma to Spain. They have since run an Oyster 68, a 72 and Tim is currently skippering Eddie Jordan’s Oyster 885, Lush. We discussed at what size level an owner should be thinking about employing a full-time crew.

“Firstly it’s dependent on experience,” says Beebe. “Can the owner sail the boat safely and do they want the responsibility? I agree that after 60ft, the time spent on upkeep starts to outweigh the enjoyment of it… unless you are living on it full-time.

“There are companies that will look after a 60ft boat and have it ready for owners when they arrive,” Beebe continued. “The amount of time needs to flexible. You can allot time for cleaning – inside and out – but maintenance must be flexible. There are always surprises.”

So where might a potential new owner be caught out? “The basic maintenance to keep the boat running is not too bad on a 60-footer but it’s the little bits that might get overlooked, which can quickly add up. You have to stay on top of everything. Winch maintenance, for example, might surprise the average new owner: to properly service all the winches takes a good deal of time – and is a once-a-season job.”

What advice would Beebe give owners of 60-70-footers looking to employ and keep a good crew? “Maintaining good relations is key. You all have to get on in a small space. From my experience, forward planning is nice to have, plus adequate time with guests off the boat for maintenance. Of course the occasional day off doesn’t go amiss either.”

Case study: Oyster 745 for bluewater cruising with family and friends

Henrik Nyman has sailed all his life on a variety of different sized boats, including owning and chartering various yachts and is now upgrading from an Oyster 625 to a 745 for bluewater cruising with friends and family. Why move to a yacht that needs crew? “Size alone is not a factor. For me, quality, engineering and function were my drivers… I thought 60ft was the maximum I could handle without crew, but in fact I feel that the 745 should be no trouble mainly due to very well thought-out functions and engineering. Handling is one part, but also you want crew for comfort, to go to the supermarket, some meals, formalities etc… I can sail basically alone but I want a good deckhand, mainly for safety purposes and for maintenance as well. “My biggest concern is that the equipment installed does not meet the same quality as the yacht itself. My experience from the 625 is that the majority if not all warranty issues are caused by third party installations.”

Case study: Discovery 67 – trading up for extra space

Simon Phillips is a highly experienced cruising and racing sailor, who has gradually scaled up in size from a Sonata, a Sadler 29, a Hanse 47e and a Discovery 55. He bought his 67ft Sapphire 2 of London this June and his main reason for trading up was to gain space. “ Sapphire is 40 per cent larger inside which makes a big difference if you’re planning to spend 18 to 24 months on board. My wife and I are actively planning for the World ARC.” Phillips hasn’t used a professional crew before, but has employed delivery companies to do short deliveries due to time pressures. He normally sails with friends and contacts. “Sapphire is much more technical than the Discovery 55. Her size requires more planning and thought on where you can go etc. While it is possible to sail the yacht single-handed you really need one crew on the helm and three on lines to come alongside in any sort of windy and tidal conditions.”

Showcase boats: Recent and upcoming launches in the 60ft plus category

Vismara 62: Vismara is a custom carbon yacht builder that has now introduced some semi-custom series. The V62 is based on the success of the Mark Mills designed racer-cruiser SuperNikka . A mould was taken from her hull and adapted to make it more cruiser friendly.

Hallberg-Rassy 64: “Push button controls are the only way you could handle a boat of this size without a big crew and our owners absolutely don’t want that,” said Magnus Rassy at the time of our HR64 test. “A huge amount of care has gone into making a boat that will be easy to sail long-distance, to maintain and to continue to use when things stop working.”

Dufour 63 Exclusive: Due to launch at the Düsseldorf Boat Show in 2017, Dufour’s new flagship is a response to those from Beneteau, Jeanneau and Hanse and is the first of its new Exclusive range. The 63 is a yacht that maximises exterior comfort with a 5m long cockpit and exterior galley option alongside a tender garage.

CNB 66: The Bordeaux 60 and CNB 76 have both been true success stories. This 66 is very much the smaller sister to the 76 and looks set to replace the 60. “With the 66 the idea was to be able to sail without crew,” says CNB’s Thomas Gailly. “So we wanted it to be very simple, with no lift keel option or retracting anchor arm – easy to maintain and use.”

Baltic 67: Over the past few years, Baltic Yachts has launched some of the finest new carbon superyachts, but its recent announcement of a new serially produced model marks a return to the more moderate-sized fast cruisers it was known for in the past.

Advanced Yachts 62: Advanced Yachts uses some of the leading design firms to represent Italian luxury performance at its best, with models from 44-100ft. And this new A62 looks simply sensational.

Amel 64: This is one of the first 60+ footers truly designed for a couple only for bluewater cruising.

Find out more here – or in the videos below.

Below is the video of our two day liveaboard test aboard the smaller sister Amel 55, a model which launched at a similar time to the 64 and shares her updated design features.

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19.81m | Fountaine pajot | 2008

64' 2002 OUTREMER 64 "ALIZE"

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19.2m | Lagoon | 2017

19.2m | Lagoon | 2020

18.91m | Sunreef | 2006

18.89m | Lagoon | 2012

18.9m | Lagoon | 2013

18.9m | Lagoon | 2012

DEO JUVANTE

18.89m | Sunreef | 2018

2011 MOXIE 61 TOSCA

18.59m | Custom built | 2011

18.51m | Horizon | 2014

FEEL THE BLUE

18.4m | Sunreef | 2018

18.3m | Sunreef | 2021

60' 2008 FOUNTAINE PAJOT ELEUTHERA

18.28m | Fountaine pajot | 2008

60' 2004 FOUNTAINE PAJOT ELEUTHERA "TAO II"

18.28m | Fountaine pajot | 2004

18.28m | Sunreef | 2015

2021 SUNREEF 60

18.28m | Sunreef | 2021

18.28m | Sunreef | 2020

18.13m | Voyage yachts | 2002

17.67m | Custom | 2006

17.67m | Fountaine pajot | 2017

2015 SUNREEF 58

17.67m | Sunreef | 2015

WINDWARD DESTINY

17.67m | Leopard | 2018

17.4m | Lagoon | 2004

17.3m | Fountaine pajot | 2011

17.25m | Fountaine pajot | 2011

17.06m | Lagoon | 2011

17.07m | Lagoon | 2012

TABULA RASA

17.06m | Lagoon | 2005

17.06m | Privilege | 2016

17.06m | Privilege | 2021

17.06m | Lagoon | 2015

17.06m | Lagoon | 2018

16.9m | Catana | 2022

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• Jeanneau Yachts 60
• Jeanneau Yachts

A sophisticated, contemporary aesthetic and a remarkable ergonomic design that adapts to suit your preferences... with the Jeanneau Yachts 60, you benefit from a multitude of possible configurations and options, enabling you to give your sailboat a unique personality to match your own cruising style.

SEANAPPS Technology on board. To learn more, click here .

More Modular, More Personality

Each millimetre of this offshore cruiser has been designed for a gentle, enjoyable flow of life on board, truly in symbiosis with the sea. In addition, the Jeanneau Yachts 60 offers a choice of between 19 possible layouts: owner's cabin, guest cabins, galley, chart table… the living spaces are adapted to your needs. Exacting standards and refinement are the norm, in terms of both comfort on board and design. Excellence is within your reach. The style is clean, streamlined. Furnishings appear as sculpted solid forms. Each space is bathed in light, streaming through large windows in the hull. You nev-er lose sight of the sea or the sky.

A Sailboat Adapted to Suit Your Cruising Style

Numerous options - classic mainsail or furling, self-tacking jib, various foresail formats - enable you to adapt the sails and rigging to suit your purposes. A longitudinal tender garage, located to the aft of the boat, accommodates a 2.90-metre tender powered by a 15 HP engine. A skipper cab-in can be configured in the forward bow. In choosing the Jeanneau Yachts 60, you participate in the design of your sailboat.

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Boat Test: New Luxurious Multihull Lagoon 60

Multihull manufacturer lagoon is the world leader in building cruising multihulls. they’ve gone big with their new lagoon 60 as sam jefferson finds out..

Lagoon 60 : Double the pleasure

Lagoon catamarans is without doubt the biggest cruising multihull manufacturer in the world and their yachts are ubiquitous be it in the South Seas or the South Coast of England. The manufacturer states that there are around 7,000 Lagoons bobbing around on the oceans. The secret of their success could probably best pinned on their consistency of purpose; the Bordeaux based manufacturer has never really tried to produce anything other than comfortable cruising catamarans. Sure, they have always looked to improve performance and internal volumes but they have always kept the faith with the idea that they know what they want to produce and they believe that they are in tune with the buying public. The results speak for themselves; nobody is ever going to win races in a Lagoon but they will always have a comfortable platform for cruising adventures and the fact that you find Lagoons the world over suggests that the boats are tried and tested in quite extreme conditions. 

Having said that Lagoon has always displayed a consistency of purpose is true but its also fair to say that they have diversified slightly in recent years. The introduction of the spin off Excess range of slightly more sporty cruising cats spoke of a desire to diversify slightly. Meanwhile, the launch of the Lagoon Sixty 5 and Seventy 7, big cats aimed squarely at a slightly more bling audience than smaller models, also pointed to a desire to move into a new market, one remove from their previous flagship, the Lagoon 55. The 60, which replaces their bestselling 620, is a clear attempt to bridge the gap between the 55 and the Sixty 5 and there is plenty of evidence that they have looked to take the best aspects of both these boats and fuse them in the new 60. This is a yacht that shares plenty of styling and design characteristics with the 55 and its smaller sister the 51 yet, once aboard, I definitely felt that it shared a lot with the luxurious Sixty 5 when it came to the interior space. 

So who is the boat designed for? Well, while the 55 is mainly aimed at cruising couples, Lagoon accepts that the 60 will likely need a full time crew. Sure, the set up is simple enough to sail as an energetic couple but this is a genuinely big boat and that means an awful lot of cleaning if nothing else. The boat is designed by VPLP with Nauta doing the interior. This is a classic team for Lagoon and they rarely make too many mis steps. The design is far from radical and features hulls designed for volume and also taking into consideration that this is a yacht that is likely to be loaded to the gills. Lagoon is realistic enough to know that they are not going for blinding performance with this boat so daggerboards are out of the question and the tulip shaped midship sections ensure that there is big outward flare well above the waterline to boost volume. The boat relies on stub keels which give a draught of 1.6m to give a bit of grip going to windward but she is not going to compete with the Catanas or Outremers of this world – nor is she intended to. Given that this is a yacht that weighs in at 32,000kg it is perhaps no surprise that the sail area is big, with an air draft of 100’ meaning that, even with the flybridge reducing the size of the main somewhat, this is a big rig. As with the 55, the rig is stepped further forward than on earlier models and is fitted with overlapping headsails. Naval architect VPLP says these offer more flexibility and efficiency on a boat of this type than the near ubiquitous non-overlapping jibs of today’s yachts.

Approaching the boat from the water (she was anchored off the port of Fornells in Minorca when I tested her) I was struck by the strong family resemblance with the 55. Stepping aboard though and I felt like I’d moved into an altogether different size bracket. Make no mistake, this is a big boat. Approaching from astern you have wide bathing platforms on the sponsons and two steps up take you to the cockpit. A notable feature is the dinghy/bathing platform which is a massive wood slatted platform that drops down to water level when at anchor and can be submerged to allow the dinghy to float free. At deck level there are two side flaps on both quarters that drop down to give you even more space. This feeling of space is genuinely astonishing by the way – as you can probably imaging given the boat has a beam of 32’. 

One notable feature is that the entire boat from stern to bow features no steps up or down. This was more of a challenge for the designers than you imagine and was a conscious decision based on the idea that they wanted the boat to feel as open as possible. It means you have an unobstructed walkway from the back of the aft cockpit, through the saloon to the forward cockpit. The aft cockpit area is big with an L-shaped sofa and twin tables to port. The drop leaf tables fold out to make one very large single table ideal for dining al fresco. To starboard is another sofa with a fridge at the forward end. There is storage both under the seats and under the deck plus access to the engines. There is also direct access to the owners stateroom from the starboard side of the cockpit via a fancy doorway/hatch made from toughened glass.  

Two steps up takes you onto the side decks which are wide and feature a good handhold on the coach roof. Up at the bow there is a forward cockpit area with loungers and sofas. This is also a pleasant space and there is a door that leads you straight back into the saloon, so access is excellent. The Solid foredeck does not extend right to the bow, which is reserved for two crew cabins to port and starboard of the trampoline. These feature a reasonable amount of space for crew and the port side has an ensuite with shower. 

Heading back into the cockpit and then up to the next level via well proportioned stairs is the flybridge, which is well shaded by a solid bimini. This area is huge, with a work surface, sink and fridge aft and to starboard and l shaped seating area with table to port. The stairs up to this deck are to starboard and the helm is also offset to starboard. Forward of the helm station is a large seating/lounging area with a coffee table in the middle. The solid Bimini has a detachable ladder up to it which gives access to the main and has solar panels on it. There are four giant harken winches with 14 jammers – seven each side – which handle all the running rigging. In addition the buttons for the furling code 0, staysail and Genoa are to port And starboard The helm station is comfortable with a broad seat. 

The saloon is huge and loosely divided into three areas with the galley aft and to port and a small nav station aft to starboard. In fact this galley area is a sink, wine cooler and fridge plus storage space because the actual galley is just aft of this, completely separate, with it’s own entrance in the cockpit. Down here you have a good space for cooking with a huge full height fridge four ring hob and oven plus ample workspace and a small crew dining area. There is an option to expand the galley in the main living area, dispense with the large ‘crew’ galley to starboard and turn this into an extra cabin. This marginally reduces the feeling of space in the saloon but might work better if you had plans to charter the boat out a lot. Staying in the saloon and forward on the port side is a huge seating area with a coffee table in the middle and then a dining area to starboard. It’s all very open with sliding patio doors into the cockpit and a large door leading to the forward cockpit.

Descend to starboard and you are in the owner’s suite. This is huge and very light and spacious. The double bed is athwartships and there is more than enough space to walk either side of the bed and also a desk area forward of this. After is the bathroom which has a totally separate heads and steps aft which, as already mentioned, lead directly onto the aft section of the cockpit. The smoked glass ensures privacy while also letting in masses of natural light. It’s an extraordinary place to take a shower. Staying in the starboard hull and forward of the stateroom –  and completely separate – is a large guest double with ensuite. There’s plentiful room and a good feeling of space.  

Stepping into the port hull and moving forward of the galley which we have already discusse, there is a twin bedroom with fore and aft berths plus  ensuite. Ahead of this there is a double cabin with the bed set athwartships forward of this with the ensuite at the bow. The boat therefore sleeps eight comfortably plus the crew up forward. The overall ambience is very pleasant and the quality of the fit out was impressive. Trite as it may be to say, this is far more spacious and comfortable than many mid sized apartments. 

One thing you can’t do with a mid sized apartment is take it sailing. Something you definitely can do with the Lagoon 60. Conditions in Minorca were somewhat tricky for a boat weighing in at 32 tonnes. The wind was between 5 and 10kn, although the water was relatively flat. Under sail the 60 proved a powerful performer in very light winds and with the Code 0 unfurled we were largely able to match the wind speed up to 7kn. Sail handling was simple but the hydraulic steering was a touch on the notchy side and lacking in feel. I’d just come from a week sailing a tiller steered Jeanneau Selection 37 so this was a hard contrast. Although it’s fair to say that the contrast in comfort aboard was similarly striking. Things have improved a lot in a short time when it comes to hydraulic steering but even so, it lacks a bit of feel and on any long passage you’ll be sticking it on autopilot and simply enjoying the ride. The boat is medium displacement and is designed to sail heavily loaded down so that powerful sail plan is a must and it works well. She’s not massively close winded but she does truck along thanks to that big sail plan. Under power she was very responsive and the addition of bow thrusters meant it was supremely easy to manoeuvre. The Raymarine dock assist system further helped ensure that mooring was truly effortless with six cameras allowing you to see clearly all sides of the boat and their distance relative to the quay. 

Sam’s verdict on the Lagoon 60

At the mid point of the test, we anchored up for a couple of hours and enjoyed lunch and a swim. For all the Lagoon 60’s fine sailing I felt it was this that truly showcased the potential of this yacht; its supremely comfortable and large enough to be both a sociable space but also allow you the space to unwind in a quiet corner. As with all Lagoons, you’re not going to win a Transatlantic race, but you’ll get there without any fuss and once you arrive, you’ll have the most comfortable yacht in the anchorage. 

Comfort: 5/5

Performance: 4/5

Lagoon 60 Specifications

Hull length: 18.27m (59’11”)

Length overall: 19.77m (64’10”)

Beam overall: 9.87m (32’5”)

Naval architect: VPLP Design

Exterior design: Patrick le Quément

Interior design: Nauta Design

Water draft: 1.65 m (5’55”)

Air draft: 30m (98’5”)

Light displacement: 34.6 T (76,293 Lbs)

Sails area upwind: 222 m² (2,389 sq ft)

Genoa: 87 m² (936 sq ft)

Contact: catamarans-lagoon.com

Alternative boats

Fountaine Pajot Samana 59

This Berret Racoupeau design is narrower and lighter than the Lagoon 60 but is clearly designed with comfort in mind – boating the biggest flybridge in her class according to the manufacturers.

catamarans-fountaine-pajot.com

A catamaran that places luxury squarely above performance. This is a big, spacious and very comfortable cat that can easily be optimised for skippered charter. Intriguingly, the 60 is available with electric motors as standard, which is a real revolutionary touch.

sunreef-catamrans.com

Privilege Signature 580

Privilege edges closer to the performance market, offering an interesting compromise between luxury and speed. This Marc Lombard design is lighter and marginally narrower than the 60. 

privilege-marine.com

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A Waterspout Was Seen When a Luxury Yacht Sank. What Is It?

Witnesses reported seeing the tornado-like phenomenon hit the Bayesian, a sailing yacht that sank off the coast of Sicily on Monday.

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By Eve Sampson

What caused the sinking on Monday of a sailing yacht carrying the British billionaire Mike Lynch and 21 other people off the coast of Sicily is still unknown. But some attention has focused on observations by witnesses, who described seeing a small tornado-like column known as a waterspout forming over the water during an abrupt and violent storm as the vessel sank.

Fifteen passengers on the 180-foot yacht, the Bayesian, escaped on a raft before being rescued by a neighboring cruise ship. The body of the ship’s cook was recovered on Monday and six people remain unaccounted for , including Mr. Lynch and his daughter Hannah, according to officials with Sicily’s civil protection agency.

Prosecutors in the nearby city of Termini Imerese have opened an inquiry into the cause of the sinking.

Here is what to know about waterspouts, a surprisingly common weather phenomenon that may have helped sink the luxury yacht.

What are waterspouts?

Waterspouts are columns of spinning air and moisture — similar to tornadoes over water, according to the National Weather Service .

While some form in fair weather, and are aptly called fair weather waterspouts, another more dangerous variety called tornadic waterspouts develops downward from a thunderstorm. These tornadic waterspouts can either form as regular tornadoes over land and move out to sea, or form in a storm already over a large body of water, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association .

Fair weather waterspouts are weak, often dissipate quickly and do not cause major damage, according to the agencies, but tornadic waterspouts are more often associated with high winds, dangerous and frequent lightning, and hail. The Italian authorities recorded strong winds and intense lightning activity at the time the yacht went down.

How common are waterspouts?

Experts say waterspouts may be more common than tornadoes, but because oceans are so vast, they are more difficult to track — and as difficult to predict.

“The Mediterranean is possibly one of the places where waterspouts are most likely around the world due to the warm ocean surface and a climate that is very susceptible to thunderstorms throughout the summer and autumn,” according to a statement by Peter Inness, a meteorologist at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Inness pointed to a 2022 study by scientists from University of Barcelona , which found that waterspouts occurred more frequently over warmer sea surfaces. The North Atlantic ocean has been unusually hot for over a year, repeatedly reaching record highs for the time of year , according to data from the oceanic association.

The International Centre for Waterspout Research on Monday said on X , the platform formerly known as Twitter, that it had confirmed 18 waterspouts near Italy in recent days, and several fishermen in the area of the accident told Italian media that they had witnessed a waterspout near the yacht.

What may have happened?

Karsten Börner, the captain of the nearby boat that rescued the 15 passengers, said in an interview that he saw the Bayesian about 490 feet away before the wind and lightning picked up.

While it was difficult to see what happened amid the storm, “my theory was that she was capsized first and then went down over the stern,” he said.

Towering over 237 feet tall, the Bayesian mast was one of the tallest aluminum masts in the world and it also had a special keel that could be raised or lowered, according to its manufacturer, Perini Navi. A keel is the downward-extending centerline underneath a boat that can help stabilize the vessel.

“In this case, having a tall aluminum mast would not make it the safest port to be in case of a storm,” said Andrea Ratti, associate professor of nautical design and architecture technology the Politecnico di Milano.

He added that “a lot of questions will remain until we have other elements at our disposal.”

Elisabetta Povoledo contributed reporting.

Eve Sampson is a reporter covering international news and a member of the 2024-25 Times Fellowship class, a program for journalists early in their careers. More about Eve Sampson