ocean yachts reviews

Log in or Sign up

You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly. You should upgrade or use an alternative browser .

Ocean Yachts 44 Buying

Discussion in ' Ocean Yacht ' started by Ronnie V , Apr 14, 2021 .

Ronnie V New Member

Hi all I'm looking at an 1988 44 foot OY sportfish The reviews are all over the board. It has standard OY stuff on board ie 6 71's etc. HELP I need some Honest Opinion. I have heard the "my uncle's best friends cousin's boss's wife's brother stories" KINDA confused now Thanks

NYCAP123 Senior Member

In a 33 y.o. yacht the most important/ relevant opinions are yours of the sea trial and fit and finish and the surveyor's. What someone's opinion of the new boat was 30 years ago doesn't mean much. If she was treated right she may be far better that a more respected brand that wasn't and if she was treated poorly she may be worse than an inferior brand that was properly maintained. I used to run a 43 with Yanmars back and forth from NY to Miami. We averaged 23 gph and ran at 29 kts., but that's not too relevant since yours has 6-71s. Hull shape though will be about the same and what I found is that she's built for speed , light with a narrow transom. The result of that is she doesn't like quartering seas and tended to slap against a small chop. But I also had her out where I was looking up at the wave tops from the helm (14'+) and she got me home each time, but I worked hard keeping her straight. I once followed another 43 out of Hilton Head who was running on autopilot in those seas. His mate was hanging off the stern chumming as first I was looking at his transom and next his bow rail until I suggested he run manually.

Thanks Just curious about the handling in various waters. I boat in Puget Sound That is not quite the ocean but does have it’s moments

I'd expect you to deal with a short spaced chop there like we do in Long Island Sound (in the ocean waves tend to be more spaced) which means she'll slap under the hull a bit, but you can mitigate that by adjusting speed. We were running hard. Time was more important than comfort. I think you might find a different hull such as a Bertram from the same era more comfortable but not as fast. SF are a purpose built boat designed as a fishing platform for getting to the fishing grounds fast, then for trolling and backing down on fish. Is that your intention (game fishing)? Otherwise there might be other boats more designed for your type of usage.

Thanks for the onfo Currently running a 42 Uniflite It’s a tank 42000 lbs high degree of dead rise the only thing is the Crusaders Just too thirsty More to follow

Capt Fred Senior Member

I have a 87 44 with 6-71s, love the boat. I have had mine in nasty beam seas and pretty significant seas on the nose and stern and have no concerns with her sea capabilities. I love everything about the boat except she is a little noisy due to the exhaust. My fuel burn is far greater than what NYCAP123 experienced. When I cruise at 18 kts I burn about 30 gph and at 8 kts I burn 5 gph total.

That sounds about right for those motors. Yanmars are sippers. The one I ran was about a 2000 and I'm sure by then they lightened them up and maybe even narrowed the transom. I too loved running that boat. She handled head seas fine. It was the small chop (around 2') that banged under the hull. As I mentioned the only issue I had was with quartering seas and that was just the nature of the beast; very light, narrow transom. So a quartering sea would push it around. A trade off for more speed.

Capt Fred said: ↑ I have a 87 44 with 6-71s, love the boat. I have had mine in nasty beam seas and pretty significant seas on the nose and stern and have no concerns with her sea capabilities. I love everything about the boat except she is a little noisy due to the exhaust. My fuel burn is far greater than what NYCAP123 experienced. When I cruise at 18 kts I burn about 30 gph and at 8 kts I burn 5 gph total. Click to expand...

Captain Fred Thanks for the info. Here in the NW We have a combination of easy water in the south sound to a washing machine across the Straits of Juan de Fuca and Straight of Georgia. Thanks to the ice age most of our waters run north and south. And the prevailing wind blows north or south. So with 18 foot tides and wind it can be interesting. Captain Ronnie V

I have spent a fair amount of time on a 42 uni and I would say my 44 compares favorably to the 42. If there are any significant differences it would be at speeds higher than 22 kts where the dead rise of the 42 may offer an advantage in certain sea conditions.

If my 42 would have Detroits I probably would not be looking at anything else. But like I mentioned earlier ,the crusaders are just way too thirsty and to be some what economical I run around 10knots. But one good thing I don’t spill my beverage

Snavaroli New Member

I have an 1986 44 SS with 671 ti's. I love the boat and only big concern is she yaws quite a bit in a following sea but as long as I keep the trim tabs tucked up tight she seems to do ok. I also agree with the 30GPH at 18 Kts.

That's the narrow, light transom. It pays to keep one eye over your shoulder in a following sea, and the autopilot off.

NYCAP123 said: ↑ That's the narrow, light transom. It pays to keep one eye over your shoulder in a following sea, and the autopilot off. Click to expand...

Thanks I will keep that 30 gph in mind Captain Ronnie V

Matt Clark Member

I have a 1990 44 SS with 671TIB Detroits and love it. Engines a bit loud but also kind of bad ass and that's why they call them the Harley of the water. I mostly boat in smaller chop and she does pretty well. Been on several trips in the Great Lakes as well and no issues but have also been lucky and never caught in mammoth waves. I get a ton of compliments of her lines and the teak look. Super happy with it after three years of owning. Original manual says 24gph at 2150 RPMs but after 30 years of running I think 30 gph is probably more realistic. She still can run at 28.5 knots WOT but I only hit that about once a year to clean her out for a few. My salon also seems bigger then my friends with slightly bigger boats which is a bonus. Good luck on your search. Hit me up if you have any more questions.

Pat D New Member

I owned my 44 for 12 yrs. Great boat and great layout. Like Matt said, with the galley down the salon is equal to a 55 footer.

• No, create an account now.
• Yes, my password is:
• Forgot your password?

• 2024 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE
• MIAMI BOAT SHOW
• Email Newsletters
• Fishing Boat Reviews
• Fly Fishing
• Marine Electronics
• Fishing Tackle
• Best Marine Electronics & Technology
• Fishing Destinations
• The Bahamas Fishing Guide
• Boating Safety

Ocean 43 Super Sport

• By John Brownlee
• Updated: September 21, 2007

Ocean’s latest Super Sport model is a sleek-looking 43-footer with plenty of standard goodies that will make fishing and/or cruising a breeze. As with all Oceans, the 43 is fast, but there’s more to this boat than just speed. If you haven’t checked out a Super Sport lately, you may be surprised at how much this boat has to offer for the money.

Take the cockpit, for example. There’s lots of room for even the most tournament-hardened fisherman, along with serious fishing features such as a live well in the transom and an oversized transom door that opens under a hinged covering board. Fish storage is handled by a large, in-deck fishbox with hatches that open on either end. It’s drained by a macerator pump and is big enough to hold even the largest wahoo or tuna. The bait-prep center forward has everything you need for serious rigging, including a sink with tackle drawers below, a cockpit freezer with a lift-out tray, and an ice/drink box with a dry-storage compartment beneath it.

After ascending the angled bridge ladder, we found a centerline helm arrangement with the gauge cluster strategically located above the wheel, and a large electronics surface to starboard. A lounge seat along the port side of the bridge contained racks for storing rods, and we found more dry storage beneath the forward lounge seat. There’s outstanding visibility all around.

Our 43 came with twin 480-hp Volvo Penta TAMD 74P EDC diesels (Caterpillar and Yanmar options are available), complete with Volvo’s new electronic controls. The controls take some getting used to, since the handles are small and quite close together, but the response is almost instantaneous and you can make the 43 spin on a dime.

Stable, Fast and Dry

The big Volvos pushed the 43 easily and it got on plane with almost no smoke at all. Ocean’s own speed numbers indicate a cruise of 27.8 knots at 2250 rpm, and a wide-open 32.5 knots at 2700 rpm. From the beginning, Ocean has striven to make all of its boats exceed the 30-knot barrier, and this boat certainly passes that test with flying colors. It ran well in the small chop we encountered on our test day, never pounding and throwing up a minimal amount of spray, even in the worst quartering sea.

With plush fabrics and wood accents galore, the interior of the 43 can only be described as plush. The salon features blinds with valances, recessed halogen lighting, and a port couch with a set of rod racks hidden beneath it. You can tell that fishermen designed the rod storage on this boat, because there’s plenty of it. The galley is up and features a counter with Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer beneath it. The Corian countertop forward contains a two-burner electric stove and a sink. Dry-storage areas are tucked into every nook and cranny, so getting all of your stuff aboard for a long fishing trip shouldn’t be a problem.

Two staterooms below provide sleeping space for four: two in the transverse double berth in the master stateroom forward and two more in side-by-side single berths in the guest stateroom aft and to port. The guest head is to starboard and has a real shower stall with an acrylic door. It even has a washer/dryer system. The master head is forward, in the forepeak, and the master stateroom comes with two cedar-lined hanging lockers.

Keeping with the Ocean tradition, the 43 SS comes with an incredibly complete standard-equipment list that includes an 8 kW diesel generator, an icemaker, air conditioning, a central vacuum system, an entertainment center, all ground tackle and fresh and raw-water washdowns, among many other items. About all you need to add is a top and outriggers, and you’re ready to fish!

The 43 features a very high level of fit and finish, and has a very solid feel to it when underway. But perhaps the best part is that Ocean has managed to bring all of this together at a remarkable price, making the 43 SS a deal that just might be too hard to pass up.

Ocean Yachts Inc., Egg Harbor City, NJ; (609) 965-4616; www.oceanyachtsinc.com

• More: Boat Reviews , Boats

Pursuit OS 405 Offshore

Prepare for Launch: The Springtime Vessel Safety Checklist

Honda Outboards and Scout Boats Create New Boat Line

World Cat 400CC-X

Where’s the Data for Making Changes to California’s Halibut Regulations?

Chasing Striped Bass Through New Jersey Marshes

Where to Find the Best Fishing in March

Kick Off Spring With the Southeast Mullet Run

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Cruising World
• Florida Travel + Life
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

• 2024 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE
• SHALLOW WATER FISHING
• Email Newsletters
• Boating Tips
• Boating Safety
• Electronics
• Best Marine Electronics & Technology
• Baits & Lures
• Fishing Tackle
• Fishing Travel
• Conservation
• Fishing Knots
• Women in Fishing

• Boat Reviews

Ocean Yachts 42 SS First Glance

• By John Brownlee
• Updated: June 8, 2006

The original Ocean Yachts 42 Super Sport hit the market in the early ’80s and became an overnight success. It combined a large cockpit with a stable hull design, and like all Oceans the boat ran fast with relatively small engines. It also happened to be one of the better-looking boats the company ever built.

With this illustrious history in mind, I looked forward to running the new version of the 42 SS. I tested the boat in Naples, Florida, courtesy of Florida Yacht

||| |—|—| |   Specifications | |  LOA|  42′ 1″| |  BEAM|  15′ 4″| |  DRAFT|  3′ 11″| |  WEIGHT|  34,151 lb.| |  FUEL|  430 gal.| |  WATER|  100 gal.| |  POWER|  T 510-hp| |  BASE PRICE|  by request| Sales, and as I walked down the dock toward the new Ocean, approaching from astern, I initially thought I was looking at a much larger boat. But Tom Butz of FYS assured me that we were looking at the right one.

The new 42-footer boasts a spacious cockpit and a sumptuous interior (another Ocean trademark) in a very well proportioned package. The sleek lines that are the hallmark of Ocean Yachts’ current styling create a handsome look overall and an extremely functional design in the real world, something every Ocean Yacht possesses. This 42 represents yet another chapter in the company’s ongoing success story.

Ocean Yachts

Egg Harbor City, New Jersey

609-965-4616

www.oceanyachtsinc.com

• More: Boat Reviews , fishing boats
• More Boat Reviews

Sailfish 316 DC First Glance

Robalo 266 Cayman Boat Review

World Cat 260CC-X First Glance

Solace 32 CS First Glance

New Gear: The Siren Connected Boat App

QUICK GUIDE: Surf Fishing Etiquette

Fishing With Crabs as Bait

West Winds Are the Best Winds

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Cruising World
• Florida Travel + Life
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. Sport Fishing may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site.

Copyright © 2024 Sport Fishing Firecrown . All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

• Forum Listing
• Marketplace
• Advanced Search
• The Bass Barn Forums
• Offshore Fishing Forum

Opinion on Ocean Yachts?

• Add to quote

ASK 100 PEOPLE WHAT THEY THINK ABOUT A 2004 27 FT. BAYLINER AND PROBABLY 1/2 OF THEM WILL SAY THEY HAVE ALWAYS BUILT JUNK.FOR A GUESS OF AT LEAST 6 YEARS BAYLINER HAS BEEN BUILT BUY BRUNSWICK,THE LARGEST BUILDER OF BOATS IN THE WORLD.I THINK BAYLINER STARTED TO FIX A LOT OF THERE PROBLEMS IN THE EARLY 90'S BEFORE BRUNSWICK AND THAT IS WHEN BRUNSWICK BECAME INTERESTED.WE HAD A 23'BAYLINER 1991 OR 2 TROPHY WITH 2 125hp FORCE FOR TWO YEARS IT WAS GREAT AND WE TRADED TO A 25' 94 TROPHY THAT WAS GREAT WE HAD THAT 2 YEARS THEN MOVED UP.MY POINT IN THE VERY BEGINNING OCEAN HAD SOME PROBLEMS,DO YOU THINK THEY JUST LEFT THEM ALONE?? THEY WOULD HAVE BEEN OUT OF BISSNESS YEARS AGO IF THEY DID. THERE ARE A FAIR AMMOUNT OF TOURNEY WINNERS WHO HAVE HAD THEY.AFTER THE MUFF-DIVER SANK PEOPLE USED THAT AS AN EXAMPLE OF OCEAN'S BEING NO GOOD.YET EVERYTHING POINT THAT IT WAS A FREEK LARGE PIECE OF ROPE THAT SANK THEM IN CALM WATER.TH E MUFF-DIVER WAS A 84 OR 86 OCEAN RUN BY ONE OF THE BETTER CAPTAINS OUT OF OC MD. HE BOUGHT ANOTHER SLIGHTLY BIGGER OCEAN AND I THINK HE IS STILL RUNNING IT TODAY.ARE THEY A VIKE NO BUT I DON'T THINK THEY ARE JUNKK EITHER.WE HAVE A FEW OCEAN OWNERS ON HERE AND MAYBE THEY WILL POST ON HERE.  

Oh boy, looks like another doozy, Ok, here is my take on the Ocean Yachts. I will do the glass is half full approach. They have succesfully built boats since 1980, and their customer base for the most part, are repeat buyers. The nitch for these boats is truely out there, not everyone has Viking or Custom boat money. Most of everything you find on an Ocean Yacht, is top of the line components, like motors, interiors, set-ups, etc. They have always been fast, for the most part, comfortable fishing boats. From 1984 to 1992 I have been captain of every model over 42' some off the top of my head, 44' 46' 48' 55' 57' 63' and in 1992 a 42'. I won plenty of times with these boats against the biggest and the best of competition here on the East Coast and Bahamas. So they are serious fishing boats. So with that in mind, if you want to get in the action, at a price you can afford, and compete with the best of them, Ocean Yacht does the job. Have there been problems - yes there have been, I also think Ocean Yachts, for the most part, has stood firmly behind their products, and have worked hard to make themselves better at manufacturing these boats. As with these and all boats, you have to learn and understand the inherent problems an older vessel will have, and deal with them accordingly. I want to finish my post with one last thought, please don't turn this into an Ocean Yacht bashing contest, please. Dr. Mike, a 1990 boat has a lot of water under its bow at this point. My first question would be, how well did the owner of this vessel take care of her? I am sure this vessel will take a repair and be in service another 16 years. Captn Joe [ 01-14-2006, 11:55 AM: Message edited by: Captn Joe ]  

I have run several Ocean yachts over the years and they are sound, well made boats that serve well either fishing or just kickin bacK!  

They are a basic good boat. I've fished one for years, I've also fished Viking, Hatteras, Bertram, Trojan, Post.etc. Ocean is not at the top of the list, but then again, it doesn 't cost like the top of the list.  

Phil from the little debbie runs a 55 Ocean. She's always run smooth as glass when I've been on her.  

This is second hand information, however, I talked with a salvage diver who worked for the coast guard and he said the ONLY (his words) boats he got called in to patch during heavy weather so they could make it back was Ocean Yachts. Apparently he said the hulls woudl split while getting pounded in a good sea. I fished a tournament on a 55 Ocean in 8-12 foot seas when only 4 boats left the dock on day one and it was OK, but they sure are pretty, and quick  

Blisters are not a structural defect, and they are not caused or prevented by the relative structural rigidity of the hull. If you look around, you will find that that most brands (including Bertrams, Blackfins, etc.) have had blister problems on some of their boats. Not every boat, but if you get one that absorbs some water, you gotta get it fixed. Fix it right and it's a one time fix. The best way to avoid unexpected boating expenses is to not have a boat. [ 01-14-2006, 02:22 PM: Message edited by: algillen ]  

Over the past 15 years we have owned 7 Ocean Yachts a 1985 46', 1986 46',1988 48',1989 48',1989 44',1995 48' and currently a 1997 48'. We have never had blisters on any of them. For the money an Ocean Yacht is the best production boat you can buy. You get great accomodations and speed for half the price of a Viking. The ride may not be as good as some other production boats but an Ocean Yacht will always get you home no matter how crappy it gets. [ 01-14-2006, 05:00 PM: Message edited by: ANDY L ]  

I worked for Viking and they use solid glass from the water line down and balsa up past the water line. I think what happened maybe the glass under the water line devolped stress cracks in the glass and water had found it's way to the balsa core like what was said above.That's if they use balsa below the water line.  

Originally posted by algillen: The best way to avoid unexpected boating expenses is to not have a boat. Click to expand...

the fact that ocean yachts are all over the world and found fishing in every big game tourney on the planet speaks for the product. It is not fair to judge an entire company based on one story. maybe they are not for everyone, but stand at the weigh stations next time and count how many come backing down to weigh a fish.  

Although I haven't owned or ridden in one I think they are the perfect combination for the family and fishing trips. I really doubt moving up is in the near future but I would certainly consider Ocean Yachts. They are everywhere, factory is local (for me at least) and the interiors really are sharp. Could be a major plus in selling the wife on a bigger boat. --JK  

Have run a 1985 38 for a few years - solid boat. Yes she has had her fair share of problems; blisters, leaky salon windows... but she has gotten me home every trip. Stop by I'm on E dock Seaview Harbor, come to think about it you may want to wait until April- 5" of snow this morning, and I'll show her off. Don't buy into the flexible flyer crap - old problem. Do your research and feel free to email any questions you have - you will get an honest answer here. Good luck  

I had a 1982-42'. Bought it used in 83. Had that boat from the Bahamas to Newport RI. Been in some heavy weather (up to 18') and never had a problem getting home. I did have a delamination problem on both sides of the keel that came up in 84. Ocean had the boat hauled and sent a couple of guys from the factory to repair at n/c. Never had a problem after that. Had the boat about 8 years. Also never had a blister problem.  

I've only fished on one Ocea Yacht- the Little Debbie - I think she is a beautiful boat!!!!!!!  

I know I guy who owned a early 46 in Tuckerton. He had most of the same problems that were listed here. He sold the boat and always talks about buying another one. He always said though, he got what he paid for. [ 01-15-2006, 03:27 PM: Message edited by: Fishin4ever ]  

We'll have a new 42 Ocean at the AC Boat Show. This is a brand new model for 2006. Come by and take a look first hand. I think most will be impressed. Ask for me when you get there. Brian  

I've fished on a few Oceans they're decent boats far from the top of the list of best boats out there. I did see one sink in I believe it was 1991 it was around 42' 5-7' sea's and it wasn't from hitting anything. I believe the owner boat a Vikeing with the insurance check.  

bEING THE OWNER OF A 55' OCEAN YACHT, AND HAVING THE OPPORTUNITY TO RUN A SLEW OF OTHER BOATS INCLUDING A 47 AND 55 VIKING, THE OCEAN IS AN OUTSTANDING BOAT, DOES RIDE LIKE A VIKING PRETTY DARN CLOSE, BUT THE VIKING HAS HER BEAT IN WEIGHT HANDS DOWN. ABOUT BLISTER PROBLEMS, THE PREVIOUS OWNER OF MY BOAT WAS A FANATIC, HE SAW A FEW BLISTERS STARTING AND HAD THE BOTTOM RE-DONE COMPLETELY. DO I THINK THAT IS A DESIGN FLAW, NO. I NEVER HAD BLISTERS ON MY 1973 36' HATT., BUT I HEARD HORROR STORIES ON OTHER 73' HATTS. I THINK THE BLISTER PROBLEM STEMS FROM AMOUNT OF TIME IN THE WATER, THE PREP THAT WAS TAKEN ON THE GLASS WHEN IT WAS LAYED, WHO LAYED THE GLASS, THE HUMIDITY, THE PREP OR A HOST OF OTHER THINGS. IN THE CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS WE DO ALOT OF FIBERGLASS DECKS, AND MOST DO NOT BLISTER, BUT SOME DO, WHY WHO KNOWS BUT I THINK IT IS USUALLY ATTRIBUTED TO ONE OF THE THINGS I MENTIONED. THE BOTTOM LINE, IS ALL BOATS CAN DELVELOP BLISTERS AND I DON'T THINK A BOTTOM THAT DEVELOPS BLISTERS IS NECESSARILY A BAD BOAT.  

I am the owner and operator of Mega Bite 2, it is a 1979 ocean yachts 40SS. This boat is in the "flexible fyler" time period, and i'll tell ya; WHAT A BUNCH OF BS! The boat is solid as a rock with no blisters and a good design, some of the boats did have some tabbing issues but ocean recalled those ones and were fixed. As far as blisters go, that is purley a matinence thing, if the boat sits in water and the guy uses cheap bottom paint and hasnt put a barrier coat on, that is the reason for the blisters. Ocean is a highly reputable builder started by the long time boat building family the leeks. They have put a great combination of style performance and economy into a sweet package that no ocean yachts owner can deny. About that boat sinking, EVERY BOAT THAT SIZE CAN SINK, AND ACCIDENTS DO HAPPEN. Hope it helped, G.S. Mega Bite 2, Bouns Check, and The Grady  

i heard that in following seas the boat tends to be sloppy? i have seen a few in the yards and it looks like the keel kinda ends and it flattens out from the shaft outlet to the stern. Is that a real concern when the boat slides down a wave face.  

Reel Force - Following sea performance varies by model. Some were better than others. Current models are actually darn good and carry a lot of deadrise to the transom.  

The older Ocean Yachts did have a problem in following seas due to the flat stern but they corrected the problem when they came out with the "New Generation" hulls in 1990. [ 01-22-2006, 11:29 AM: Message edited by: ANDY L ]  

I have fished the canyons in some real crap and had Ocean's right next to me and they handled the seas as well as our boat. I think the rep they have is way over kill and I certainly would not be embrassed to own one. They will get you out and back with the best of the offshore boats in their class and save you quite a bit of money versus the high end battle wagons. I have known some Ocean owners that did have the blister problems and Ocean stood by these customers and repaired the problems even after the boats were over 10 year old. One thing is no new boat is cheap these days and that label pertains to all offshore boats when bought new. I would not put Ocean near the top of my personal list of top end offshore boats but I think you get a lot of boat for your money. I know a whole bunch of charter capts from MD to Florida that would disagree with this but I like Oceans and would fish on one any day. Our new 55 Carolina Custom will cost probably 1 million dollars less than a new Ocean of the comparable size but it takes every bit of almost two years to get one built. Capt John  

Dr. Mike, any boat has it's problems, to give you an idea, some new 48 Vikings have the engines laying on the hull. They are now revising the layout and are raising the engines on about 6 of them as i speak. By the way they were delivered before they found out about the problem. Talk about quality control.  

• ?            
• 41.9K members

Top Contributors this Month

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Greek Ocean Star 51.2 Exclusive review: from the archive

• June 2, 2021

There will always be a market for a big volume, people-carrying cruiser with modest looks and just enough style to make it easy on the eye. One such 50-footer is the Greek Ocean Star 51.2

She's a big. safe, dependable cruising boat that seems to be built with great care. Credit: Malcolm White

Product Overview

Manufacturer:.

What do yo get if you aim to create a 50 footer that can carry plenty of people, is still stylish enough to appeal to the eye and has been carefully built? The Ocean Star 51.2 Exclusive.

Ocean Yachts were launched seven years ago by brothers Emmanuel and Costas Anargyrou. After running a successful yard in Brazil building powerboats, the brothers returned to Greece and set up Ocean Yachts in premises just outside Athens.

The company now build 14 yachts a year, many for the domestic charter market. Recently they have been looking at the owner market and the Ocean Star 51.2 Exclusive is the result.

Based on the existing Ocean Star 51.2 model, she features a new layout, a souped-up three-spreader rig and a new keel and spade rudder.

The building process is in stark contrast to the mechanised efficiency of the German or French mass production yards.

There is a maximum of five boats in production at any one time – it lakes 5,800 man hours to build an Ocean Star 51.2 Exclusive.

All boats are built to order, which means semi-custom requests can easily be accommodated. The boats are laid up in a split mould allowing a large internal flange to be formed for the hull to deck join.

The hulls are a solid laminate below the waterline with Coremat used above while the decks use balsa core. But laminated into the hulls while still in the mould is the most elaborate stiffening grid I’ve ever seen.

It stretches from the forward watertight bulkhead to a metre or two short of the transom and is almost 2ft deep in places. Overkill? Maybe, but the hull is certainly stronger for it.

Deck details

The Ocean Star 51.2 Exclusive is not a particularly sleek boat. The high coach roof running all the way forward to the chain locker gives her a bulky appearance, and a raised section ahead of the cockpit, while improving shelter and providing stowage for the dodger, does little to reduce this.

But her appearance is hardly offensive and there’s not a lot to set her apart from many other European production cruising boats.

The Exclusive version of the Ocean Star 51.2 sports a triple-spreader mast, cutter-rigged with a self-tacking staysail.

Genoa and staysail are both roller-furled while the main is fully battened with single-line reefing.

The mainsheet track spans the whole coach roof giving plenty of control over the boom, but its position well ahead of the companionway puts it very far forward.

Apart from the considerable stress this must place on the boom, it also has the inevitable result of taking the sheet out of reach of the helmsman. One solution would be to move the traveller controls aft, something that could very easily be done.

By contrast, the primary winches, mounted well inboard on ‘buttresses’, are within easy reach and in a good position for grinding. Not that we had to do much of that: the test boat had electric primaries and one electric halyard winch too.

Two large electric motors within inches of the wheels would play havoc with the steering compasses so a centrally mounted compass sits at the aft end of the cockpit table with fluxgate displays at each wheel.

This boat has loads of space for all the necessities of cruising.

You could graze a small herd of goats in the lazarette, which has access via a hatch in the cockpit sole and another under one of the helmsman’s seats. Another Ocean Star 51.2 has an occasional bunk for extra crew fitted here, right alongside the generator. Nice.

There are another two large lockers on the swim platform and a huge forward locker too. This is usually fitted out as a crew cabin but would make a fantastic workshop for long-distance cruising.

Ahead of this is the chain locker.

The Ocean Star 51.2 has an impressive interior

Although the Ocean Star 51.2 had few surprises on deck, the interior impressed us. There’s nothing in particular that stands out as daringly different, but somehow you know this boat wasn’t built by machines.

Descending a very secure companionway, flanked by strong handholds above and below deck, you enter a spacious saloon.

The test boat was finished with a cherry veneer and satin varnish with a pale headlining broken up by strips of dark trim. Ocean Yachts also offer a beautiful teak interior, seen on another Ocean 51.2.

The woodwork is solid and nicely finished all round, the odd uneven gap being the only qualm. The doors in particular are beautifully made and feature quality fittings with a heavy, solid action.

There are magnetic catches on all doors to hold them open, and extra catches so they can be left slightly ajar.

That immense under-floor grid seems to work too: there are no creaks or groans anywhere.

Unusually, the saloon table is mounted athwartships, making room for the chart table to tuck in abaft it. This in turn allows the longitudinal galley to extend the full length of the saloon.

It has plenty of workspace with a neat Corian-style counter top and high wooden fiddles.

Also a large chest freezer, front-opening fridge and separate icemaker should keep the supply of refreshment flowing. But with no saloon ‘island’ there’s nothing to keep the cook in place on starboard tack.

I found the chart table short of legroom but then not everyone is 6ft 4in and it did make it easy to stay wedged in.

The table is a reasonable size if a little shallow, but there’s the option of having a wider table with an extended instrument binnacle.

Hinged switchboard panels here make access to the electrics simple and gave me a glimpse of very neat wiring looms inside.

The layout features a large owner’s cabin up forward and two double guest cabins aft.

The owner’s cabin is particularly comfortable, with a large island bed and spacious dressing table/desk. Leecloths would be essential if this bunk is to be used at sea, though.

All cabins are ensuite with separate shower stalls in all but the port aft head. The aft cabins are comfortable enough, with room to stand up and get dressed, but a little stark and short on natural light.

Hull ports, available as an option, were fitted to another boat we saw and make a big difference.

Huge removable panels on either side give excellent access to the 100hp Yanmar. With these removed and the companionway lifted, the engine is easy to get at.

Sailing the Ocean Star 51.2

It was a blustery day off Athens when we sailed the Ocean Star 51.2, with an icy breeze reaching 30 knots at times.

We set off under full sail on a broad reach and were soon doing over nine knots, hitting a high for the day of 9.5 knots in 22 knots apparent.

The Ocean Star 51.2 felt stable and controllable even when flirting with a gybe dead downwind.

The Jefa rod-linked mechanical steering system, with self-aligning bearings, gives the helm a beautifully light and direct feel, with none of that slack ‘sogginess’ often associated with twin wheels.

I thought the wheels felt a bit low initially, but they just took a bit of getting used to. And were a good height if you tend to do most of your driving sitting down – not a bad thing for a cruising boat.

The position is comfortable with lots of things to brace against and it’s great having the genoa sheet an arm’s length away. But a wider coaming outboard for the helmsman to sit out on would be good.

Hardening up onto a beat, it quickly became apparent that we were over­canvassed.

With the mainsheet and traveller controls far away from me, not to mention the language problems with the Greek crew, it was too late to do anything about it when we started rounding up.

The helm remained light so there wasn’t much warning either, but fortunately the boat came back on course without much fuss. We eventually settled down under single­reefed main and staysail.

The helm remained light and responsive and the log quickly crept up to over 7 knots, staying there with little attention.

Under this sail plan the boat felt secure and the self-tacking staysail, rather than an inefficient half­furled genoa, meant I could tack when and where I wanted with no help from the crew.

This was a good thing, because with the staysail sheet on the coach roof, along with the main.

I was left with no control of the sails. Still. the boat went through a series of quick tacks very smartly.

Heading back to the marina, the grunty 100hp Yanrnar made quick work of motoring into 30 knots of breeze.

Not surprisingly, with that deep spade rudder she was quick to turn under power too but a bowthruster is a popular option.

Ocean Yachts are a good example of how a small yard can build production boats the old fashioned way and still be competitive.

The Ocean Star 51.2 is a big. safe, dependable cruising boat that seems to be built with great care.

Overall the boat’s performance was impressive too and with a decent set of sails should be a lot better.

But the Ocean Star 51.2 is not cheap and mass-produced boats are getting better; their builders have been at it for a long time and know what they’re doing.

You could save money by being less of an individual, but then again it’s difficult to put a cost on having something slightly different.

First published in the May 2005 issue of YW.

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

• Boat Reviews

Boat Review: Ocean 48 SS Express

• By Dean Travis Clarke
• Updated: October 12, 2001

Ocean Yachts goes about its job quietly, turning out beautiful boats that sell well without a lot of fanfare. And with good reason. Naval architect Dave Martin has mastered the complex concepts of advanced planing hull design that he uses to make the “Next Generation” Ocean Yachts perform exceptionally well. The Leek family has been fishing offshore (and building boats to do it) since before the Revolutionary War. And interior designers combine their tasteful flair with the Leeks’ uncanny ability to eke every last square inch of usable space out of a boat’s interior to make each model of Ocean a favorite among wives and sweethearts. Ocean’s new 48 express is yet another of the company’s quiet successes.

Performance We had the opportunity to fish the new 48 equipped with optional twin CAT 3196s with electronic controls pushing out 660 hp each. (Standard power is a twin Detroit 6V-92TA package at 625 hp each.) All indications say this package will be very fuel-efficient. Nineteen-hundred rpm gives 27 knots for a quite reasonable cruising speed, and she maxed out at 2,335 rpm giving a 32.5-knot top speed. One thousand rpm means 11.5 knots. In fact, this hull is efficient enough to get up on plane and run at 18 knots on just one engine turning 2,000 rpm. Certainly the 48 Express’ speed is acceptable for today’s market. But where she really stood out was in cruising performance. With a north wind blowing at 10 to 15 knots against the Gulf Stream coming from the south, seas were 6-foot ocean swells topped off by a 1- to 2-foot chop. By all rights, we should have been taking spray on the windshield with every wave. But at speed, this may be the driest express boat I’ve ever run. Spray, on every point of sea, blew out and down. At slow trolling speed, the spray occasionally blows up onto the windscreen with the wind just off the bow. The 48 Express drifts beam to the wind and seas with a comfortable roll moment, while down-sea it tracked straight as an arrow at every speed with no lugging up the backs of waves. Whether fishing or docking, you’ll find that this express spins and turns beautifully. In fact, docking with either low or normal idle is excellent with inch-by-inch control and fluid reactions from the Mathers MicroCommander electronic gear/throttle controls.

Interior The 48 Express provides a spacious cabin amidships beneath the helm deck with double berths to both port and starboard. The salon seems shorter than on many comparably sized boats due to the aft cabin and the galley-down arrangement. Two steps down take you to a complete galley where a half-height refrigerator, microwave/convection oven and all the other luxury appliances live. A half-height freezer flanks the stairwell. A single full head with more than adequate headroom serves the master stateroom forward as well as the guest stateroom and salon. The owner’s accommodation consists of a centerline double berth with drawers beneath and cabinetry lining both bulkheads. Though this all may sound ordinary and plain, the fabrics, treatments and lighting Ocean uses elevates each interior to the sublime.

Construction Ocean uses woven fiberglass, Divinycell coring in the topsides, decks and bulkheads, blister-resistant vinylester resin, and tough-as-nails isopthalic gel coat. Rather than gluing many individual pieces together, Ocean utilizes a two-piece modular construction method that makes its boats strong enough to offer a five-year hull warranty.

• More: Boat Reviews , Express Fishing , Ocean , Ocean Yachts , Sport Fishing Boats

Free Email Newsletters

Sign up for free Marlin Group emails to receive expert big-game content along with key tournament updates and to get advanced notice of new expeditions as they’re introduced.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

By signing up you agree to receive communications from Marlin and select partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy . You may opt out of email messages/withdraw consent at any time.

• More Boat Reviews

Scarborough Boatworks 72 Review

Valhalla 55 outboard boat review, viking yachts 90 review: new flagship boat replaces the 92, f&s boatworks 82 review, frozen paloma recipe, tony’s dorado tacos recipe, panama’s topwater yellowfins, meet kevie thomas.

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Email Newsletters
• Tournaments
• Expeditions

Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. Marlin may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site.

Copyright © 2024 Marlin. A Bonnier LLC Company . All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

Sign up for free Marlin Group emails to receive expert big-game content along with key tournament updates and to get advanced notice of new expeditions as they’re introduced.

Subscribe to Marlin

Subscribe now to get seven keepsake print editions of Marlin per year, along with instant access to a digital archive of past issues, all for only $29 per year.

• Bermuda Triple Crown
• Los Cabos Billfish Tournament
• Offshore World Championship
• Scrub Island Billfish Series
• Marlin Expeditions
• Casa Vieja Lodge Ladies Only
• Casa Vieja Lodge
• Nova Scotia
• Expert Instructors
• Corporate Retreats
• Our Sponsors
• Newsletters

Boat Reviews

• Aquila Boat Reviews
• Aspen Boat Reviews
• Avalon Boat Reviews
• Aviara Boat Reviews
• Axopar Boat Reviews
• Barletta Boat Reviews
• Bayliner Boat Reviews
• Centurion Boat Reviews
• Charger Boat Reviews
• Cruiser Yachts Reviews
• Formula Boat Reviews
• Fountaine Pajot Reviews
• Freeman Boatworks Reviews
• Galeon Luxury Yachts Reviews
• Intrepid Boat Reviews
• Jupiter Marine Reviews
• Manitou Boat Reviews
• Native Watercraft Reviews
• Phenom Yacht Reviews
• Pursuit Boat Reviews
• Sailfish Boat Reviews
• Sea Ray Boat Reviews
• Sea-Doo Watercraft Reviews
• SeaVee Boat Reviews
• Solace Boat Reviews
• Windy Boat Reviews
• X Shore Boat Reviews
• Yamaha Boat Reviews
• Boats Specs
• Marine Pros
• Boat Insurance
• Boat Warranties
• Boat Transport
• Boat Towing
• Marine Forecasts

Your Ultimate Boating Resource

2024 Pursuit OS 445: An Overview

Boat safety 101: exploring the serenity and adventure of boating, the moment of truth – 6 signs you need a new boat, eco-savvy sailing: expert tips for reducing fuel costs and enhancing your boating experience, 2024 aquila 47 molokai review, 2024 sea-doo switch 13 sport review, 2024 aspen c120 review, ocean yachts.

• 2014 Ocean 37 Billfish CP
• 2014 Ocean 37 Express
• 2014 Ocean 42 Super Sport
• 2014 Ocean 46 Super Sport
• 2014 Ocean 50 Super Sport
• 2014 Ocean 54 Super Sport
• 2014 Ocean 58 Super Sport
• 2013 Ocean 37 Billfish CP
• 2013 Ocean 37 Express EX
• 2013 Ocean 42 Super Sport SU
• 2013 Ocean 46 Super Sport SU
• 2013 Ocean 50 Super Sport SU
• 2013 Ocean 54 Super Sport SU
• 2013 Ocean 58 Super Sport SU
• 2012 Ocean 37 Billfish CP
• 2012 Ocean 37 Express EX
• 2012 Ocean 42 Super Sport SU
• 2012 Ocean 46 Super Sport SU
• 2012 Ocean 50 Super Sport SU
• 2012 Ocean 54 Super Sport SU
• 2012 Ocean 58 Super Sport SU
• 2011 Ocean 37 Billfish CP
• 2011 Ocean 42 Super Sport SU
• 2011 Ocean 46 Super Sport SU
• 2011 Ocean 50 Super Sport SU
• 2011 Ocean 54 Super Sport SU
• 2011 Ocean 58 Super Sport SU
• 2010 Ocean 37 Billfish CP
• 2010 Ocean 42 Super Sport SU
• 2010 Ocean 46 Super Sport SU
• 2010 Ocean 50 Super Sport SU
• 2010 Ocean 54 Super Sport SU
• 2010 Ocean 58 Super Sport SU
• 2009 Ocean 37 Billfish CP
• 2009 Ocean 42 Super Sport SU
• 2009 Ocean 46 Super Sport SU
• 2009 Ocean 50 Super Sport SU
• 2009 Ocean 54 Super Sport SU
• 2009 Ocean 58 Super Sport SU
• 2008 Ocean 37 Billfish CP
• 2008 Ocean 42 Super Sport SU
• 2008 Ocean 46 Super Sport SU
• 2008 Ocean 50 Super Sport SU
• 2008 Ocean 54 Super Sport SU
• 2008 Ocean 58 Super Sport SU
• 2007 Ocean 42 Super Sport SU
• 2007 Ocean 46 Super Sport SU
• 2007 Ocean 50 Super Sport SU
• 2007 Ocean 57 Super Sport SU
• 2006 Ocean 46 Super Sport SU
• 2006 Ocean 50 Super Sport SU
• 2006 Ocean 52 Super Sport SU
• 2006 Ocean 57 Super Sport SU
• 2005 Ocean 40 Sport Fish OF
• 2005 Ocean 40 Super Sport SU
• 2005 Ocean 43 Super Sport SU
• 2005 Ocean 46 Super Sport SU
• 2005 Ocean 50 Super Sport SU
• 2005 Ocean 52 Super Sport SU
• 2005 Ocean 57 Super Sport SU
• 2004 Ocean 40 Sport Fish OF
• 2004 Ocean 40 Super Sport SU
• 2004 Ocean 43 Super Sport SU
• 2004 Ocean 50 Super Sport SU
• 2004 Ocean 52 Super Sport SU
• 2004 Ocean 57 Super Sport SU
• 2003 Ocean 40 Sport Fish OF
• 2003 Ocean 40 Super Sport SU
• 2003 Ocean 43 Super Sport SU
• 2003 Ocean 48 Super Sport SU
• 2003 Ocean 52 Super Sport SU
• 2002 Ocean 40 Sport Fish OF
• 2002 Ocean 40 Super Sport SU
• 2002 Ocean 43 Super Sport SU
• 2002 Ocean 48 Super Sport SU
• 2002 Ocean 52 Super Sport SU
• 2002 Ocean 56 Super Sport SU
• 2001 Ocean 40 Sport Fish OF
• 2001 Ocean 40 Super Sport FS
• 2001 Ocean 43 Super Sport FS
• 2001 Ocean 48 Sport Fish OF
• 2001 Ocean 48 Super Sport FS
• 2001 Ocean 52 Super Sport FS
• 2001 Ocean 56 Super Sport FS
• 2001 Ocean 60 Super Sport SF
• 2000 Ocean 40 Sport Fish OF
• 2000 Ocean 40 Super Sport FS
• 2000 Ocean 44 Super Sport FS
• 2000 Ocean 49 Sport Fish OF
• 2000 Ocean 49 Super Sport FS
• 2000 Ocean 53 Super Sport FS
• 2000 Ocean 56 Super Sport FS
• 2000 Ocean 60 Super Sport FS
• 1999 Ocean 40 Sport Fish FS
• 1999 Ocean 40 Super Sport FS
• 1999 Ocean 44 Motor Yacht
• 1999 Ocean 45 Super Sport FS
• 1999 Ocean 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht
• 1999 Ocean 49 Sport Fish FS
• 1999 Ocean 49 Super Sport FS
• 1999 Ocean 53 Super Sport FS
• 1999 Ocean 56 Super Sport FS
• 1999 Ocean 60 Super Sport FS
• 1998 Ocean 40 Sport Fish FS
• 1998 Ocean 40 Super Sport FS
• 1998 Ocean 44 Motor Yacht
• 1998 Ocean 45 Super Sport FS
• 1998 Ocean 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht
• 1998 Ocean 49 Sport Fish FS
• 1998 Ocean 49 Super Sport FS
• 1998 Ocean 53 Super Sport FS
• 1998 Ocean 60 Super Sport FS
• 1995 Ocean 38 Super Sport FS
• 1995 Ocean 42 Super Sport FS
• 1995 Ocean 44 Motor Yacht
• 1995 Ocean 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht
• 1995 Ocean 48 Super Sport FS
• 1995 Ocean 53 Super Sport FS
• 1994 Ocean 38 Super Sport FS
• 1994 Ocean 42 Super Sport FS
• 1994 Ocean 44 Motor Yacht
• 1994 Ocean 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht
• 1994 Ocean 48 Super Sport FS
• 1994 Ocean 53 Super Sport FS
• 1993 Ocean 38 Super Sport FS
• 1993 Ocean 42 Super Sport FS
• 1993 Ocean 44 Motor Yacht
• 1993 Ocean 48 Cockpit Motor Yacht
• 1993 Ocean 48 Super Sport FS
• 1993 Ocean 53 Super Sport FS
• 1993 Ocean 56 Cockpit Motor Yacht
• 1993 Ocean 58 Super Sport FS
• 1992 Ocean 38 Super Sport FS
• 1992 Ocean 42 Super Sport FS
• 1992 Ocean 44 Motor Yacht
• 1992 Ocean 48 Motor Yacht
• 1992 Ocean 48 Super Sport FS
• 1992 Ocean 53 Super Sport FS
• 1992 Ocean 56 Cockpit Motor Yacht
• 1992 Ocean 58 Super Sport FS
• 1991 Ocean 35 Sport Cruiser
• 1991 Ocean 35 Super Sport FS
• 1991 Ocean 38 Super Sport FS
• 1991 Ocean 42 Super Sport FS
• 1991 Ocean 44 Super Sport FS
• 1991 Ocean 48 Motor Yacht
• 1991 Ocean 48 Super Sport FS
• 1991 Ocean 53 Motor Yacht
• 1991 Ocean 53 Super Sport FS
• 1991 Ocean 56 Cockpit Motor Yacht
• 1991 Ocean 58 Super Sport FS
• 1990 Ocean 29 Super Sport FS
• 1990 Ocean 32 Super Sport FS
• 1990 Ocean 35 Sport Cruiser
• 1990 Ocean 35 Super Sport FS
• 1990 Ocean 38 Super Sport FS
• 1990 Ocean 44 Super Sport FS
• 1990 Ocean 48 Motor Yacht
• 1990 Ocean 48 Super Sport FS
• 1990 Ocean 53 Motor Yacht
• 1990 Ocean 55 Super Sport FS
• 1990 Ocean 58 Super Sport FS
• 1989 Ocean 32 Super Sport FS
• 1989 Ocean 35 Super Sport FS
• 1989 Ocean 38 Super Sport FS
• 1989 Ocean 44 Super Sport FS
• 1989 Ocean 48 Flybridge Motor Yacht
• 1989 Ocean 48 Super Sport FS
• 1989 Ocean 53 Flybridge Motor Yacht
• 1989 Ocean 55 Super Sport FS
• 1988 Ocean 35 Super Sport FS
• 1988 Ocean 38 Super Sport FS
• 1988 Ocean 44 Super Sport FS
• 1988 Ocean 48 Super Sport FS
• 1988 Ocean 53 Flybridge Motor Yacht
• 1988 Ocean 55 Super Sport FS
• 1987 Ocean 38 Super Sport FS
• 1987 Ocean 44 Super Sport FS
• 1987 Ocean 48 Super Sport FS
• 1987 Ocean 55 Super Sport FS
• 1986 Ocean 38 Super Sport FS
• 1986 Ocean 44 Super Sport FS
• 1986 Ocean 46 Sunliner FC
• 1986 Ocean 46 Super Sport FS
• 1986 Ocean 48 Super Sport FS
• 1986 Ocean 55 Sunliner FC
• 1986 Ocean 55 Super Sport FS
• 1985 Ocean 38 Super Sport FS
• 1985 Ocean 42 Sunliner FC
• 1985 Ocean 44 Super Sport FS
• 1985 Ocean 46 Sunliner FC
• 1985 Ocean 46 Super Sport FS
• 1985 Ocean 55 Sunliner FC
• 1985 Ocean 55 Super Sport FS
• 1984 Ocean 38 Super Sport FS
• 1984 Ocean 42 Sunliner FC
• 1984 Ocean 42 Super Sport FS
• 1984 Ocean 46 Sunliner FC
• 1984 Ocean 46 Super Sport FS
• 1984 Ocean 50 Super Sport FS
• 1984 Ocean 55 Sunliner FC
• 1984 Ocean 55 Super Sport FS
• 1983 Ocean 42 Sunliner FC
• 1983 Ocean 42 Super Sport FS
• 1983 Ocean 46 Sunliner FC
• 1983 Ocean 46 Super Sport FS
• 1983 Ocean 50 Super Sport FS
• 1983 Ocean 55 Super Sport FS
• 1982 Ocean 42 Sunliner FM
• 1982 Ocean 42 Super Sport FS
• 1982 Ocean 50 Super Sport FS
• 1982 Ocean 55 Super Sport FS
• 1981 Ocean 40 Flybridge Trawler
• 1981 Ocean 42 Sunliner FM
• 1981 Ocean 42 Super Sport FS
• 1981 Ocean 55 Super Sport FS
• 1980 Ocean 40 Flybridge Trawler
• 1980 Ocean 42 Super Sport FS
• 1979 Ocean 40 Flybridge Trawler
• 1979 Ocean 40 Super Sport FS
• 1978 Ocean 40 Flybridge Trawler
• 1978 Ocean 40 Super Sport FS
• 1977 Ocean 40 Super Sport FS

Sea Safety Blueprint: Constructing the Perfect Float Plan for Your Boating Adventures

What type of wood is used for pier pilings, what is the difference between a dock and a floating pier, what is the proper technique for pulling a beginner wakeboarder, what does ‘no wake’ mean on a lake, what is the difference between wash and wake, 10 essential tips for fishing near private property, the benefits of using a drift sock: guidance for anglers, lure fishing: secrets for imitating live bait and attracting fish, explore the untapped depths of america’s best bass fishing spots, tackle your catch-and-release adventures with these 6 tips, outboard motor maintenance: tips for keeping your engine in top shape, the essential boat tool kit: tools every boater needs, diy boat building: 8 tips and tricks for building your own vessel, the art of miniature maritime craftsmanship: ship in a bottle, antifouling paints: a guide to keeping your boat shipshape, beginner’s guide to standup paddle boarding: tips and techniques, boating for fitness: how to stay active on the water, kayak safety: how to stay safe on the water, anchoring in a kayak or canoe: how to secure your small boat, 2024 yamaha 222xd review, 2024 sailfish 316 dc review, 2023 seavee 340z review, 2023 centurion fi23 review, gear reviews, megabass oneten max lbo jerkbait review, fortress anchors fx-7 anchoring system review, fortress anchors fx-11 anchoring system review, fortress anchors commando anchor kit review, fortress anchors aluminum anchors review, stay in touch.

To be updated with all the latest news, offers and special announcements.

• Privacy Policy

• THE PRINCESS PASSPORT
• Email Newsletter
• Yacht Walkthroughs
• Destinations
• Electronics
• Best Marine Electronics & Technology
• Boating Safety

Ocean Alexander 32E Reviewed

• By Chris Caswell
• December 15, 2023

When I arrived at the marina, I asked the dock master where the Ocean Alexander 32E was moored. He grinned and said, “Oh, you’ll see it.”

He was right. The 32E didn’t so much float as tower head and shoulders over most other boats in the marina. Think Arnold Schwarzenegger at a debutante ball, or Kilimanjaro above the plains of the Serengeti. This is a yacht for grand adventures on the seven seas.

The 32E’s profile is forward-loaded, tapering aft from a tall plumb bow. It’s clear that the two decks aft, off the bridge and salon, are designed for alfresco living, with a beach club at the transom. The swim platform is full-on watersports, with a 2,500-pound crane to handle tenders from about 16 to 18 feet long, as well as personal watercraft. There’s also room here for toys and dive gear. Both hull sides butterfly out to expand the yacht’s beam from just under 22 feet to 27 feet. The air-conditioned beach club provides a lounge for guests to watch the action in comfort.

On the main deck, the salon has defined zones for entertaining, including leather U-shaped Poltrona Frau couches from Turin and a formal dining area for 10 guests, with electric sliding doors on each side for fresh air.

The enclosed galley is pure gourmet, arranged around an island that allows two chefs to prep, cook and plate without crowding. Equipment includes a 30-inch, five-burner Wolf cooktop and a Fisher Paykel fridge, and there are Berwyn quartz counters.

A companionway leads to the owner’s main-deck stateroom. It spans the yacht’s beam (no walkaround side decks) with a king berth and two walk-in closets. The head has a free-standing hot tub, a heated stone sole and twin vanities. The lower deck has four en suite staterooms for guests. The VIP is forward with a queen berth and a love seat. Two mirrored staterooms are abaft the foyer with queen berths, and there’s a guest stateroom to port with twins.

Ocean Alexander has a long-standing mantra that “happy crews make happy owners,” which is why the 32E has a crew space abaft the engine room. Access is safe in all weather scenarios with 24-inch-wide side decks. There is an en suite captain’s cabin and a high-low bunk stateroom with a head for crew. The mess has a kitchenette with a sink, a microwave and a fridge, and a washer and dryer are provided for the crew.

What Ocean Alexander calls the bridge deck, I see as a sky lounge with an outdoor component. It stretches full beam from the four-person hot tub (wrapped by a sun pad) aft to the forward helm. Along the way is a Poltrona Frau sofa facing a full bar to starboard with four swivel stools and sole-to-ceiling windows. A day head is convenient to the deck and the sky lounge.

The helm, as expected from a builder with a long history of producing oceangoing yachts, has a trio of 24-inch Garmin touchscreen multifunction displays for navionics as well as a closed-circuit camera feed from the engine room and on deck. A Garmin remote is built into the armrest of the skipper’s pedestal seat. Two husky pantograph doors lead to the single-level foredeck, with a forward-facing dinette/lounge and a convertible sun pad that faces fore or aft.

Standard power for the 32E is twin 2,000 hp MAN V-12 diesels, and they live in an impressive engine room. The engines are separated by a diamond-plate walkway with safety rails, and there is access to all sides. Outboard are a pair of 40 kW Kohler gensets with equally good access. The 32E sets a benchmark for color-coded, secured piping and electrical runs. Delta-T intake and exhaust fans have vents in the cabin sides, rather than the hull, because Ocean Alexander expects the 32E to shoulder through big seas. The engine beds are welded stainless steel surrounding large structural stringers. There’s a smart lube-oil-change system for the mains and the gensets, and a Gulf Coast fuel-polishing system should ensure clean food for the diesels in faraway ports.

This 32E is also outfitted with Side-Power Vector zero-speed stabilizers, a 53 hp bow thruster and a 42 hp stern thruster. The Dometic air conditioning is rated for extreme tropical climates, with heating designed down to 40-degree water temps. The 50 hz Atlas Marine Power Converter allows automatic marina connections anywhere in the world, and the aerospace-designed Octoplex provides sensors and controls for the ship’s systems and lighting.

Underway, the Ocean Alexander 32E is going to cause immediate cravings for anyone who has dreamed of anchoring off the volcanic peaks of Moorea or nudging a glacier to get thousand-year-old ice for a gin and tonic. This yacht exuded power and strength from the moment the bow touched the Gulf Stream, and I found myself glancing at the fuel gauge to consider how far the 3,600-gallon capacity might take us. On the pins, the 32E topped out at 21 knots, in case owners need to outrun a squall. That’s impressive speed for a yacht with a 274,233-pound displacement. Dropping back to 800 rpm and 7.1 knots (the MANs will last forever), the yacht has a 2,430-nautical-mile range. That’s about the distance from New York to Panama or Los Angeles to Honolulu.

The stabilizers held the yacht rock-steady in the lumpy Gulf Stream, and departing from and returning to the marina was fingertip easy with the thrusters. The 32E that I got aboard also had optional engine controls on each after corner for even easier docking.

Creating such a solid ride starts with the 32E being built tough. It has an infused-fiberglass hull and closed-cell structural foam with unidirectional carbon-fiber reinforcement on stress areas, such as stringers. There is a reinforced collision bulkhead forward, and watertight bulkheads are forward of and abaft the engine room.

Owners of this yacht could throw a dart at a world map to choose their next waypoint. The Ocean Alexander 32E is ready to go.

Meet the Designer

Yacht designer Evan K. Marshall says he grew up with a stack of Yachting magazines in his closet and doodled boats on his notebooks in school. Marshall introduced the split-level owner’s stateroom to yachts. From his office on the River Thames in England, he produces innovative designs for builders from Ocean Alexander to Hatteras Yachts and more.

Robust Reinforcement

Ocean Alexander reinforces the 32E’s hull and deck with straight aircraft-grade aluminum beams that are reportedly 10 times stiffer than wood or fiberglass, but that help keep the yacht’s overall weight low for safety and seaworthiness.

The 2,000 hp MAN diesels on the Ocean Alexander 32E are Tier 3 compliant for Environmental Protection Agency emissions standards, and they have a MAN gold-standard warranty for 60 months. A V-12 designed for luxury yachts, this four-stroke engine has strong torque to 2,100 rpm and displaces 24.2 liters (1,476 cubic inches).

Take the next step: oceanalexander.com

• More: November 2023 , Ocean Alexander , Reviewed , Superyachts , Yacht Reviews , Yachts
• More Yachts

“Energy Observer” Zero-Emission Boat Showcases Sustainability

Princess Yachts’ Y95: A Flagship Flybridge

Sanlorenzo, Volvo Penta Announce Partnership

Galeon Yachts 560 Fly Wins The Day

For Sale: 2019 Cruiser Yachts 54 Cantius

For Sale: Grand Banks 36 Classic

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Florida Travel + Life
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding