First Oyster 565 Prepares For Spring Launch

Project Manager Debbie Scougall filled us in on the progress that has been made since our Oyster 565 build update in February. With everything in the very last stages of completion, the electrical and mechanical systems have now passed our rigorous testing procedures, with the yacht back inside the Wroxham shipyard for final assembly. The fit-out team have also made great headway with the upholstery, with both berth headboards and upholstered bulkhead panels already fitted, and saloon coverings next on the list. Emphasising the commitment that Oyster has to perfection on every build, Debbie noted: “Our quality team are systematically moving through the boat to pick up any final snags, which will be corrected before the yacht leaves the yard.” The Oyster 565 blue water sailing yacht is due to make the trip to our Ipswich service centre by road on Monday 8th April.

EYECATCHING DESIGN
The mast and boom have already arrived in Ipswich and the mast is in the process of being rigged, with state-of-the-art radar technology and electronic antennas being fitted ready for the yacht's arrival. Debbie said: “The white sails have been completed by Dolphin Sails and are ready to go.” The yacht’s cruising chute, which will power many hours of downwind sailing, has now been built, and efforts have turned to making it as beautiful and eye-catching as possible. It is currently with an artist who is painting on a stunning design, sure to stand out as this blue water sailing yacht cruises the oceans.  

INSIDE PANTHALASSA
While multiple configurations are possible, the Owner of 565 - 01 decided that the standard Oyster 565 floor plan was perfect for his needs. This layout has the Master Cabin aft, two guest cabins forward and a utility space, which can either be used for storage or lengthened to include an additional berth. This extra cabin, located aft of the chart table, was one feature that he particularly loved. Debbie said: “There’s plenty of room for tools and spares stowage under the workbench, along with a deep drawer for paper charts, and having the washing machine located in the utility area is great for gaining storage in the galley.”

The sail storage was another feature that drew him towards the standard layout - Debbie explained he plans to head off to the Pacific for long-term, short-handed cruising and loved the practicality of having a large sail locker forward for deploying downwind sails easily, without having to get them from an under-berth locker or move them from the stern lazarette. She explained: “Stowing the sails in a dedicated locker means that there’s more space in the aft lazarette for dive gear and a compressor, which will enable him to explore the world under the ocean when he’s in remote areas.”

Despite sticking to the standard layout, the Owner has customised the interior design of his blue water sailing yacht to perfectly suit his needs. In anticipation of spending long periods onboard he wanted the boat to feel cosy and homely, choosing a traditional look with personal twists. Cherry joinery and walnut soleboards are lightened by textured fabric on some of the feature bulkheads, with stylish black leather accents. In the sleeping cabins, walnut soles are replaced by luxurious carpet to give a more snug feel.

A HIGH-PERFORMANCE, COMFORTABLE BLUE WATER SAILING YACHT
While the Owner’s plan is to wind down and relax, he still wants to do it at speed! Having previously owned much larger yachts, he felt the performance characteristics of the Oyster 565 were what he needed for fast, comfortable cruising. As Debbie points out, being able to move quickly on passage allows for more time to enjoy some of the stunning destinations on his itinerary.

Although a lot of passage-making is intended to be short-handed, the Owner plans to have his children, friends and family join to join him onboard for extended periods, and so the large cockpit on the 565 was another vital feature, as was the hydraulic bathing platform, allowing water-loving guests easy access for swimming and watersports.

Stay tuned for the launch of the Oyster 565 - 01 in May 2019, when we will present Panthalassa in all her glory.