The legendary French boatbuilder Jeanneau is making waves once again with the arrival of the Jeanneau Yachts 55 in Australian waters, a model that epitomizes over six decades of craftsmanship, performance, and elegance.
Founded in 1957 by Henri Jeanneau with a hand-built wooden powerboat, the brand has grown into one of the most respected names in yacht building. The following year saw Jeanneau pioneer the use of fibreglass hulls, beginning a legacy of innovation that continues with the newest member of the Jeanneau Yachts line.
A Modern Tribute to a Timeless Legacy
“The Jeanneau Yachts 55 is the newest model in the range to grace Australian waters and I see it as a true representation of the modern vision from the brand’s original founder,” says Lee Condell, Sales Director at Performance Boating. “After 20 years of working with Jeanneau sailing yachts in Australia, I’m always impressed by their understanding of what sailors really want. I’m confident that visitors to the 2025 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show will be equally impressed.”
Distinct from Sun Odyssey: The Jeanneau Yachts Line
The Jeanneau Yachts range, which includes the 65, 60, and 55 models, is positioned as the more luxurious and performance-oriented counterpart to the Sun Odyssey line. Designed by renowned naval architect Philippe Briand and featuring interiors by Andrew Winch Design, the Jeanneau Yachts 55 combines sleek aesthetics with seaworthy engineering.
Owner-Centric Interior Design
Unlike many yachts in its class, the Jeanneau 55 is built specifically with the owner in mind. Approximately two-thirds of the interior space is dedicated solely to the owner’s living area, making it feel more like a luxury apartment than a traditional sailing yacht.
The forward master cabin stretches across the full beam of the yacht and features a large double berth, elegant sofa seating, a wardrobe, chest of drawers, and optional vanity. Two sliding doors lead into a bright, airy main saloon with a J-shaped galley. Storage is abundant, including additional space beneath the bed. The master ensuite includes a full-size wash basin, spacious shower, and a separate head, complete with an opening porthole for natural light and ventilation.
Private Guest Accommodations
In addition to the owner’s suite, the Jeanneau 55 includes two independent guest cabins located aft. Each features a private entrance, a separate bathroom, a full double berth, and 1.98m headroom. The port-side guest cabin is slightly larger, with a sofa and the option to add a minibar, offering guests privacy and comfort that rivals boutique hotel rooms.
For additional crew or family, an optional skipper’s cabin is available in the forward peak, complete with bunk beds and private access via a lockable deck hatch.
Outdoor Living at Sea
The full-beam cockpit is designed with outdoor living in mind. It features three separate lounging areas at the stern and an additional one on the foredeck. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or seeking solitude, the layout provides both luxury and functionality.
Two lounging zones in the stern—one L-shaped and one U-shaped—are equipped with convertible tables. These can be lowered to transform the space into expansive sun beds. A walkaround deck with a flush foredeck ensures easy movement, whether you’re at anchor or under sail.
Owners can also choose from a variety of customizable cockpit protection systems, including a rigid or canvas sprayhood, a sunroof-equipped hardtop, and even a full removable enclosure to suit all weather conditions.
Engineered for Performance Sailing
While luxury is a priority, Jeanneau has not compromised on performance. The twin helm station is set forward within the protected cockpit, ensuring excellent visibility and ease of control. Designed for shorthanded sailing, the Jeanneau 55 is equipped with four Harken winches—electric rewind versions optional—within reach of the helm, along with accessible sail controls, line clutches, throttle, and navigation instruments.
Sail plans are equally adaptable, offering in-mast furling mainsails, self-tacking headsails, cutter rigs, and spinnakers. Whether you’re an experienced cruiser or planning extended voyages, the yacht delivers reliable handling and responsiveness.
Power for Precision Maneuvering
For docking and navigating marinas, the Jeanneau 55 comes standard with a Yanmar 110hp diesel engine. With a 230-litre fuel tank—and an optional additional tank of the same size—the yacht provides range and flexibility for longer offshore passages.
