Review Notes

2010 Jeanneau Yachts 53 Sloop

FOR OPENERS

Jeanneau has been building boats since the mid to late 1950`s and now as part of the Beneteau Group of Boats, holds a high place as a quality, stylish and extremely well constructed boat manufacturer. Along with these fine attributes, the Jeanneau boats are rakishly exciting in a design that leads them to be great fun while still easy to sail.

So enter the new 53 Sloop (the first fully commissioned 53 in USA), then add 5 Marine Journalists, 2 Jeanneau Executives, and Jeanneau`s leading dealer and plop them into the heart of the Great Lakes on Lake St. Clair in Michigan... so the fun can begin.

AT DOCKSIDE

Boatcan was part of an Official Press Function to introduce the new Jeanneau Yachts 53, at the home marina of Detroit area dealer Bob Reed. The 53 was docked stem in and as it sat in harbour with the sun glistening off its beautiful lines, you could not help but be in awe
of this beautiful vessel. It was clear, that the Jeanneau Designers and Technicians had done a world class job on this new model.

The decks were rich with the optional teak. The white injection molded deck was pristine since the injection process eliminates many joints and produces a perfect topside and interior or underside. Looking at the special order champagne coloured hull with the
double spreader spar pointed to a crystal clear blue sky indicated that all was aligned for a fabulous day on this beautiful sailboat.

BOARDING

We boarded the Jeanneau from the starboard side through the double life line side gate area. Tied to a high fixed dock made the boarding process easy. You step directly onto wide flat side decks with teak underfoot for a safe and comfortable operation.

Although we did not use the integrated swim platform and under console space that allows for storage of a deflated life raft or tender inside and under the helm sole, we could see this would be another easy boarding option if tied along a lower or floating dock
configuration.

On board you truly are compelled to visually explore the space provided on the 53.

Walk around side decks are very wide and although canted to shed sea water they are basically flat and easily traversed. The fore deck is very large and the electric windlass simple to access and to use. With the optional helm control, you can set anchors and never
leave the comfort of the helm. Definitely an advantage if single handing or for crew who may be unfamiliar with techniques of sailing.

Fully forward is an extremely large hatch leading to the Captain’s Quarters. This area has an ample berth, toilet and shower facilities, and full environment control for temperature and light. It is easy to get to without bothering owners or guests aboard.... OR if you
configure the boat as this model was built, it is a wonderful place to store extra sails, rigging, fenders and all on board gear that you do not want on deck, under foot or in the salon below.

Heading aft, one is really taken with many features. There are many windows and opening hatches in the coach roof which is even more obvious when you go below. The single injected deck assembly, which is the largest injected piece manufactured for any boat, is solid underfoot. Moving from the side deck to the coach roof is easy and safe. The handling of any equipment, trimming and lines, or moving from side to side is effortless. At the aft of the coach roof is a raised space built in to deflect water that may come on top and to bring the dodger windows to for easier fastening.

You are now at the forward end of the magnificent cockpit. This space is huge, but beautifully designed to give the feeling of closeness; it is totally inviting. The dealer provided custom upholstered seating forward in the cockpit is comfortable and could easily double as a sun lounge. The seats and the cockpit sole are teak. You can step over the combing into the cockpit or go fully aft and walk around the helm to get inside the area. The step over might be a stretch for some but can be managed by most.

The Jeanneau 53 has twin wheels and, since there is no instrument pod, access to either wheel is unobstructed. In the centre of the cockpit forward of the helm stations is a large table, with built in ice chest / coolers in the top while the side leaves fold up for a more formal dining experience or a possible paper chart consultation.

There is plenty of storage in the cockpit, with an extremely large lazerette on each side of the space allowing for any extras to be easily stored without any problem. Extra mooring lines and fenders would easily store here for quick retrieval.

Our review 53 did not have the custom made dodger, awning connector, or bimini in place, so we could not determine space constraints that might occur with the top; however, given the size of the cockpit on this Jeanneau model, the top will not likely cause problems for moving or space.

Our 53 had 4 electric winches... 2 mainsail on the coach roof close to the companionway below, and 2 jib on either side of the cockpit combing. All are easily accessible and uncomplicated to operate when setting the sail, trimming sails, or changing when tacking.

BELOW DECK

Jeanneau is well known for design features with their boats but the first to be mentioned here is the steps or stairs for going below. Once you clear the slide down companionway door there are wide flat wing tipped stairs with strong stainless railings to make entry to
the salon straightforward and safe. This is really important. Too often stairs on boats are shaped or curved and it is sometimes assumed that form outstrips function. Then safety can be compromised for the aesthetics of the space. Jeanneau provides a good tread with
anti-slip trips for extra grip. If you are under sail in strong winds, the tipped edges on the treads provide safe footing for all conditions. The stairs are a bit steep on entry, but this is
only a mild concern when you realizw the amount of floor space gained in this design.

Once below, the galley is immediately to left on the port side of the ship. It is a very large area with more than ample counter space allowing for preparation of the most elaborate meals or even simple snacks. There is plenty of storage both over and below the counter.
The propane stove / oven is on the outside wall of the ship and includes a very functional and attractive outside vented range hood. This allows for the food preparation folks to face the guests, the TV and the rest of the salon space without having to lean over or
around the stove.

The stainless double sink is also situated to allow that if working in this area one can still face and converse with guests or family while in the galley. The fridge and freezer is over sized and adjacent to the sink area in a large L shaped section of the galley. The large fridge is both top and front loading, while the more than ample freezer is top loading only.

The aft bulkhead of the galley was a solid teak wall since this review model has the single masters suite aft. This allows guests to appreciate even more the beautiful teak Jeanneau has used in the salon. Craft owners can also introduce even more storage if they choose to hang complimentary shelving in this area or perhaps reserve the area for displaying pieces of art.

On the starboard side of the vessel there is a well crafted Nav Station. It sports a large flat working area with chart storage. Electronic screens are included to monitor systems and positioning if underway for extended cruising and the boat is on autopilot while the
helmsman must slip below. This is an extremely functional area, while also being a comfortable and well designed space.

Forward of the Nav Station is a large semi-circular dining settee area. It is extremely large and VERY comfortable. There is a a full dining table crafted in teak with built-in wine or liquor storage in the table top. The space will easily seat 6 and perhaps eight in a pinch. There are two comfortable chairs that complement the table setting and can be swung around to form more seating for guest entertaining. Immediately opposite the table is a large settee or couch. What makes this so unique is that when the middle portion is
pushed out from the backrest it becomes a flat work area or table for beverages or food. Under it is another bottle and glass storage space. It is truly a brilliant use of space and a different accent not found on many other boats.

The main salon is large and open. The mast is deck stepped. Any compression pole or support for the mast is built into the forward bulkhead of the salon and completely hidden. What is visible is the smaller stainless poles located at the forward side of the Nav
Station and the Galley counter that support the coach roof. They are obvious to the eye but do not detract from the grace and beauty of the interior. The poles are leather wrapped and comfortable to use. Also all raised edges on counters and tables have been milled so
that they can be grabbed safely and easily for support should the vessel lurch in unfavourable seas. This engineering feature is yet another example of why Jeanneau is a true leader in the market segment.

The interior is bright and has the feeling of a lot of space. Partly because it is large but also because of the design of the Jeanneau. The raised cabin (coach) roof has tear drop shaped windows that allow a lot of light into the salon. There are also large roof ports to
allow for more light into the interior, and since they open, natural air can get into the interior of the boat. Jeanneau`s trade mark of airy bright interiors is maintained on the 53 as it has been in many other models. Add to this, the use of a quality teak interior and
holly composite flooring product and the feeling of light and openness abound while you feel that you are in a completely inviting area on the Jeanneau 53.

The salon is really people friendly. There is a fine stereo on board the boat with mini Bose cube speakers and a flat panel television is in the forward bulkhead of the salon. Every place you look, and everywhere you look you see an area that is focussed on people who
will want to stay on board for long periods of time. Which takes us to the private spaces in the vessel.

Finishing the inside trip we go fully aft to the main stateroom. Here, the liberal private space with beautifully finished wood boasts a large queen berth with storage under the bed. Overhead are many windows that provide light and ventilation when it is not necessary to run the central air on the boat. The generous table in the cockpit conceals a raised cockpit sole space which provides extra headroom in the master quarters. The well thought out lighting system in the room provides mood and bright lighting ... whatever is required at the time.

There is much storage and good hanging locker space to handle even the fanciest of attire in addition to two nice work areas here for those who stay in-touch on the go. The top quality audio visual system is ready to be viewed from either the berth itself or either of the sitting lounging areas in this area. There are drawers throughout this cabin so even the heaviest of packers can take all they will need when away.

The head is large with shower doors that fold completely away for extra floor space or deploy easily if a shower on board is required. This design feature makes the head a dry head since the shower and toilet space are not connected.

Our review boat had a three cabin and three head configuration. The forward cabins are mirror images with a head, a sink space, a hanging locker and drawers for guests or kids on board. The space is ample and guests can get along quite handsomely in the appointments and space provided.

In the sole of the main salon there is unbelievable storage with good access. One can get to all of the required systems of the boat by going under the floor through one of the access points. In addition, there are separate storage spaces and some systems accesses dual as storage space too.

A unique building process is utilized when putting the inner liner together with the hull as the flats spots that would normally mesh perfectly are cut out of the liner. It is then epoxied at these junctures which achieves several things. Moisture that might get behind the inner liner cannot be trapped in any places, thus water damage is eliminated. The hull itself is better accessible so fittings can be installed in the hull proper for a more secure
and and more precise installation. Any water that might somehow enter the interior can only be channeled to the bilge pumps and no water is left sitting where damage might otherwise occur.

The interior is spacious with opulent wood treatments. The function of the interior surpasses the form if that is possible when you realize that Jeanneau has thought about it all in the New 53. It is absolutely beautiful and lacks nothing that anyone could want or
need.

TO THE HELM

The helm of the Jeanneau 53 is very large and spacious. The large folding cockpit table provides ample space for dining or entertaining. But it also houses the large multi-function navigation electronics screen, so that there is not the need for a large pod
pedestal; therefore, some room is freed up. Back to the helm and the 53 really shines. The cockpit is wide to allow for the twin wheels. At each respective steering area is the necessary electronics to give you all of the data to get the most out of this Jeanneau Yacht.

This wide area provides plenty of space for the helms person to work and to have great visibility. The thought at the outset is the functionality of the helm space is immediately appreciated. Each large wheel has a flat floor from which to work. There are two
comfortable seating spaces at each wheel and the flat floor between each wheel only adds to the beauty and function of the area.

In addition, the teak grated space allows water that comes aboard an easy egress from the boat. Under the helm floor is space to store your life raft or a packaged (deflated) dinghy tender. This is essentially built into the swim platform at the stern and is an excellent use of space. Another great design aspect is that by removing a few screws, the helm sole can be lifted off for easy access to service the generator or even install a generator if one is
not purchased from Jeanneau.

All of the engine controls and gauges are at the port side wheel and it is from here you leave the harbour and return, and get the 53 to the place where you want to set sails and go.

UNDERWAY

Our host Bob Reed took the boat effortlessly from the mooring and headed us out into Lake St. Clair. The large spade rudder with the assistance of a bow thruster made this job seem almost automatic. The engine noise was almost zero and with the perfect weather for the day, in spite of light winds, we realized that we were in for a treat.

In place and free from any unseen underwater hazards, Bob effortlessly set the sails and side cars and we were sailing. The electric assist winches and the fact that all lines are led aft was a work to behold. I timed this process on a second outing and all was in place and we were sailing in full trim in about 1.5 minutes... Yes!!! 90 seconds. So where is the work many associate with being on a sailboat? AND the best part.. You raise the sails on the course you intend to sail, you do not head into the wind, have flapping noisy sails until they are raised and from the get go you are sailing.

Some interesting things we all learned during the sail. Since the main is in mast furled, it is a loose foot mainsail. Some find that this arrangement is difficult for them. Bob Reed over the years has perfected the set of the two sails. Simply match the billow (curve) in the genoa to that of the main and you have a perfect trim. There is no luff aloft and the movement of this 33,000 pound boat is quick and very responsive.

Because of light air we were unable to push any limits, but the many tacks and courses we sailed that day were as simple as a day at the beach.

Tacking is easy and without effort. Again in part to the electric assist winches. Match the genoa and the main and set forth. Whether on a starboard or port tack, and regardless of which of the twin wheels you are at, visibility is excellent. The gauges are easy to see and the large navigation screen with radar, GPS, chartplotter is well positioned for perfect viewing by the skipper. The helm floor is comfortable and secure under foot and there are excellent seating spaces for your guests’ added enjoyment.

Our day on the water was exciting and except for a small sound when we turned on the generator, to determine the effect it had, we were totally relaxed. This large Jenneau Yacht was our playpen for the day.

ANOTHER LOOK AROUND

Once back in port and fully moored, I took another look at this beautiful sailboat. The teak decks, the numerous deck hatches and port holes, the matching of leather, stainless steel, finely varnished woodwork and rich leather all go hand in hand to create the
richness of the Jeanneau line of yachts.

Bright and airy below, easy mobility topside, and the total ergonomics of this boat inside and out make it obvious that this boat will truly fit any need. This model was fitted as a cruising sailboat, but a performance version would have high tech sails, more sail area, an adjustable back stay and other performance additions to match the exterior aesthetics, the traditional design thus transforming a luxury yacht into a true racer.

Regardless, from the twin helm wheels which provide ease of handling, to the expansiveness of the cockpit, the simplicity of sail handling, or maybe it is the new contemporary interior, this Jeanneau Yachts 53 offers you a blend of comfort and sailing excitement / fun, unmatched in her class.


FINALLY

One has to wonder what Henri Jeanneau who first began in 1957 would think of this JY53, created by Philippe Briand and Garoni Design. My sense is that the design, the timeless beauty, the real performance and the Catia 3 dimensional design process, go together to provide a quality in this segment of the market that is unmatched nor probably even equalled. All International Standards for stability, safety and structure are either matched or exceeded. Every part of this boat is checked against Bureau Veritas standards and then certified. After the purchase or sale of the vessel, Jeanneau has a 5 Year limited structural and osmosis warranty on the hull and deck, and a two year limited accessory warranty.

But then there is the sheer beauty and enjoyment of being aboard and sailing this vessel. This boat was the first fully commissioned JY53 in North America, but it certainly will be joined by MANY others.... for good reason...

BUT there is one final corollary... the Price. Base Pricing of the new Jeanneau 53, is $356,994.00 (USD), FOB Baltimore. Fully equipped to sail with a combination of options befitting a yacht of this caliber the price will be around $500,000.00 (USD). Compare this
to boats in the market segment, or even somewhat comparable Jeanneau models like the 54DS, and you will be amazed as we all were that there is a boat of this exceptionally design and quality, at this dollar figure.

Maybe best stated is that phrase used when advertising a boat “For Sale”....

The Jeanneau Yachts 53 is “TRULY a MUST SEE!!!”

SOME OF THE FEATURES

Electrically Assisted Sail Handling
Latest Generation Engine
Easy Maintenance
Dinghy Davits
Dedicated Life Raft / Dinghy Storage
Storage for Halyards and Line
Luxurious Liveability of 3 Part Cockpit
Multiple Light and Ventilation Hatches and Ports
Pleated Shades and Screens
Innovative Companionway Drop-down Door
Panoramic Saloon Windows
Step Down L-Shaped Galley
LED Lighting
Under Floor Storage
BOSE Entertainment System
Blond teak Flooring
Inner Spring Mattresses
Multiple Floorplan Configurations
Yacht Grade Electrical and Plumbing Component Systems
Offshore Performance with Latest Hull design
Powerful Sail Plan
Injected Deck... 2 finished sides and 30% Lighter
Efficient Weight Distribution
Bluewater Autonomy
Built to International Standards of Bureau Veritas and Standards set by ISO 9001

To view a video of the Jeanneau 53 click on
VIDEO

For a virtual tour of the interior of this boat click on VIRTUAL VISIT

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Contact

Jeanneau America Inc.
105 Eastern Avenue, Suite 202
Annapolis, MD 21403

Phone: 410.280.9400
Fax: 410.280.9401

Website: JEANNEAU