This French boatyard has announced two larger models in its Sense range of modern easily handled yachts, at 51 and 57ft. In common with the smaller boats in the range, the saloon and galley areas are right at the aft end of the accommodation, in order to minimise the separation between these areas and the cockpit.

This also helps to improve stowage below the cockpit, and there’s even one area that can be specified here as an extra cabin. On the downside, it makes the interior accommodation feel smaller than that of other contemporary yachts of a similar size. Nevertheless, there are three en suite cabins forward of the saloon, including a spacious owner’s suite right forward. Alternatively the twin cabin can be replaced with a well-appointed office area. Interior design is by Nauta Design, with a choice of fruit tree or matt walnut joinery.

One of the most striking features on deck is the semi-hard Bimini top, which is designed to shelter the cockpit from both sun and bad weather. It allows the degree of protection be altered by simply opening it or closing the fabric elements manually. For maximum protection, extra elements can be added to close off the cockpit completely. As there’s no accommodation below the cockpit, the hull lines are sleeker than more volume oriented designs. At the same time the cockpit sole is lower, which gives an improved feeling of security and safety. The first Sense 51 is scheduled for release at the Paris boat show in December 2016.

Hull length 14.98m
LWL 14.05m
Beam 4.86m
Draught 1.85 or 2.2m
Displacement 15,515kg
Ballast 3,965 or 4,450kg (depending on keel)
Mainsail 63 sq m (battened)
Mainsail 53 sq m (furling)
Genoa (105%) 60 sq m
Self-tacking jib 46 sq m
Asymmetric spinnaker 185 sq m
Engine power 80hp
Fuel tankage 415 or 830 litres
Water tankage 570 or 730 litres