oyster yacht models

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Oyster 495: the dream boat that sets the bar

• Sam Fortescue
• January 2, 2023

Oyster have long set the standard for luxurious blue-water cruisers, and the Oyster 495 is the new baby in the range. Even if you’re not in the market for one, it’s nice to dream, says Sam Fortescue

Product Overview

• High build quality
• Very stable
• Modern hull shape
• Flexible sail plan
• Accessible technical spaces
• Lots of deck stowage
• Numerous interior steps
• Limited clothes storage
• Captive main/jib halyard

Manufacturer:

Price as reviewed:.

Following an era which saw Oyster yachts getting progressively bigger and bigger, the iconic British boatbuilder has shifted its gaze back to the sort of boats that made it famous. And the first fruit of this welcome development is the comely Oyster 495.

The best part of £2 million all told, she is eye-wateringly expensive. So why sail her?

Well, this iconic British brand has long set the standard when it comes to offshore and ocean luxury cruising yachts, so it’s worth seeing, if only to measure other boats against.

The cockpit is deep, secure and well-sheltered. Credit: Morten Strauch

Even if you haven’t got that kind of loose change in your pocket, it’s nice to dream, isn’t it?

Freshly designed from the keel up, this is a that boat aims to combine comfort, quality build and reliable blue-water passagemaking with features found on the bigger boats.

Drawn by Humphreys Yacht Design, the Oyster 495 is the first new model since Richard Hadida bought the business in 2018.

‘She’s a go-anywhere adventure machine capable of taking her owners to the four corners of the globe,’ says Hadida, for whom this first boat has been built with a huge array of extras.

Oyster 495: a new icon

Approaching the Tuborg Marina in Copenhagen to join ship for the overnight passage to Kiel, there was absolutely no mistaking this boat, whose glossy black carbon mast gave her away long before I spotted the trademark Oyster eyebrow.

Hull number one, which is on a promotional world tour lasting well into 2023, also has a bold turquoise vinyl hull wrap.

Solo sailing is feasible thanks to almost all controls being push-button. Credit: Morten Strauch

In line with recent thinking on hull shape , the Oyster 495 punches a plumb bow into the seas and carries much of her beam well aft – noticeably more so than previous models.

Such a hull form resists heeling and reduces the need for ballast.

The halyards make off to the mast and can be tensioned by winches, but must be moused to be lowered. Credit: Morten Strauch

‘With the twin rudder configuration that we have adopted as standard on all our Oyster designs since the 885 model, it provides us with more flexibility to carry a higher proportion of form stability by increasing the power of the aft hull sections,’ says naval architect Tom Humphreys.

‘This is still introduced sensitively to ensure motions and control in waves is not compromised.’

Generous accommodation

Together with the slightly higher beam and topsides compared to the 46, it creates a lot of volume below for the master cabin and extra headroom in the fo’c’sle.

As is typical for Oyster, the mast is keel-stepped. It intrudes slightly into the corridor forward, but does a better job of transferring rig forces to the keel and reduces chainplate loading.

Our test boat had the full carbon mast option from Selden with in-mast furling, and in some ways, this is a bit of an oxymoron.

Headsail furling is electric on the Oyster 495, with a double bow roller in the integral bow sprit. Credit: Morten Strauch

The carbon mast adds nearly £100,000 to the pricetag for a big weight saving of some 200kg, but the mandrel and furling gear puts some of that weight back in.

On the other hand, it reduces the sail area by 10 per cent and prohibits the use of performance-enhancing battens.

‘You get more sailing done this way,’ explains sales director Richard Gibson, and that is a key point in a blue-water yacht.

The sail plan is designed with an efficient 54m2 jib, which can be set up for self-tacking, or remain on tracks set well inboard for good tight angles upwind.

Then there’s an attractive moulded-in bowsprit which carries two tack points for asymmetric or reaching sails, while beefy padeyes along the raised bulwarks give you heaps of options for fixing the blocks needed to run sheets and guys.

A large sprayhood, and an optional bimini or cockpit tent offer good protection from the elements. Credit: Morten Strauch

As well as push-button controls for the mast furling and outhaul, this test boat has the optional hydraulic mainsail trim.

Effectively reversing the mainsheet to be trimmed in the boom and not on deck, this clever kit was first developed by Wally superyachts.

The mainsheet is spliced to a strop on the deck behind the helm and a ram hidden in the boom does the trimming, removing trailing ropes in the cockpit.

Just the jib sheets come back to the cockpit, because all the halyards are designed to be handled at the mast.

The mainsheet control is hydraulic and hidden inside the boom. Credit: Richard Langdon

It keeps the cockpit remarkably tidy, but requires you to spend time crouched at the foot of the mast to launch or douse a reaching or running sail.

Similarly, the jib and main halyards terminate with loops over a mast fitting which is tensioned then pegged off.

As they are cut to this length with the sails hoisted, you can’t lower them in a hurry.

You need to unload the hook using a winch, then tie on the provided mousing line. Tidy, yes; practical, no.

Hunting for wind

Now, we had lamentably low wind during our test sail, and the delivery team were intent on reaching Kiel by daybreak, so we spent much of our 24 hours aboard with the motor running and the sails furled.

And here, it must be said that the boat performs very well.

At an optimal 2,300rpm, the efficient Yanmar 110hp shoved us along at 8 knots through oily calm seas, consuming 8.7 litres of diesel per hour.

That’s roughly 1 litre per nautical mile, or nearly 4 days and nights of motoring on a full tank of 800 litres.

Excellent deck stowage is located aft of the single-point mainsheet attachment. Credit: Morten Strauch

And though the engine sits in the traditional spot beneath the companionway, with the chart table to starboard and the galley to port, it is very well muffled.

Crucially for the workhorse on a blue-water cruising boat, access is possible via hatches on all four sides of the engine block, while the compartment itself offers plenty of room for additional equipment.

During two passages of moderate wind, the skipper obligingly let us set the main and jib – a slow but simple question of pressing buttons, with jib sheet winches within easy reach of the helm on the coaming.

She remained light and responsive on the helm and at one point, we clocked up a decent 5.1 knots of boat speed, fetching easily into 8 knots AWS.

Oyster is proud of its cockpit table, which contains a drinks fridge. Credit: Morten Strauch

Conditions didn’t permit much more, but polars indicate that she will perform up to about 32º true wind angle, quickly accelerating to 7 knots upwind in a 10-knot breeze.

Broad reaching with the 197 m² asymmetric, she can manage 11 knots in a blow.

Despite being resin-infused, the boat has a relatively heavy glassfibre construction and weighs in at 21 tonnes without fuel, water, food, gear or crew.

The saloon is large and extremely light thanks to the trademark deck saloon windows

Her sail area to displacement ratio of 16.1 is that of a solid offshore cruiser, while the waterline length to displacement ratio of 203 promises a little more power.

It gives her a very solid feel on the water, like her bigger siblings, but limits performance.

‘You want the boat to be the destination in a way,’ says Tom Humphreys. And like all Oysters, the 495 is just that.

The trademark raised centre cockpit means plenty of aft deck for lounging, fishing or blowing up tenders, while the seating, with its central fold-up table, is deep and well protected.

The optional cockpit tent and a bimini would be a boon for warm water or Baltic sailing .

A proper forward facing chart table is essential for ocean navigation and as a work station

Deck, rigging and underwater lighting may be a little showy for some, but do create real atmosphere. The heart of the boat, though, is its large saloon area.

Deep upholstery on either side provides space to put your feet up and relax, gather with friends, sit down for a meal around the eight-person table or even watch a movie on the pop-up TV.

Luxury styling in the cabins hasn’t made Oyster forget practicalities such as lee cloths and handholds.

The space communicates nicely with a very well-found galley to port and the chart table to starboard, and there are handrails to help you make your way everywhere.

The finish is Oyster to the core and styling has been revitalised with a new superyacht inspired look that is all geometric relief, pale wood and Nordic lamps.

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One step too far

If I had one criticism of this otherwise spotless interior, it would be the number of little level changes that connect the spaces.

We counted 12 steps in total, besides the companionway.

While they maximise the volume, they also present a tripping risk.

The hull form includes a plumb bow to stretch waterline length, and carries its beam well aft, controlled by twin rudders. Credit: Brian Carlin

One of the reasons for these steps is clear: the saloon sole is raised somewhat in order to create space for the tankage beneath, as well as enjoy the views from the deckhouse windows.

And there, at least, the benefit is overwhelming, because you can easily inspect each tank, as well as the batteries and other equipment.

Custom joinery adapts the galley storage to your crockery and glassware.

The galley of the Oyster 495 is well laid out for use at sea

Standard is a four-burner hob and oven from GN Espace, side opening boat fridge plus an optional freezer and microwave.

Another highlight is the huge chart table.

There are those that scoff at the waste of space in a digital age, but anyone undertaking blue-water cruising knows the value of this space.

The saloon deckhouse leaves the foredeck clear for sail handling, lounging, or dinghy stowage. Credit: Morten Strauch

B&G instruments are the standard choice. The main interfaces are touchscreen displays that drive C-Zone digital switching , but key kit still features two-pole manual switches.

‘We wanted to introduce tech into the boat, but we had to make sure that if something breaks down mid-ocean you could fix it,’ explains Gibson.

Down steps aft, the owner’s cabin is clearly inspired by the big Oysters.

The engine compartment is well insulated and has ample space for a genset and other systems. Credit: Morten Strauch

The island bed measures 140cm across and features an elaborate fabric headboard that shows off the new styling to maximum effect.

There’s the option of a huge TV on the forward bulkhead, plus a vanity table and a sofa.

A luxurious ensuite heads features a separate shower, reached – you’ve guessed it – down another step.

The second cabin lies in the fo’c’sle and it runs to another good sized semi-island bed.

The boat remains a medium-heavy displacement cruiser, but the new hull shape adds extra performance. Credit: Richard Langdon

Having shared this space overnight with the photographer, I can attest to the comfort, and the natural light.

There is a third cabin to starboard with a pair of useful bunks, sharing the forward heads and shower. Finish quality is, as you’d expect, excellent.

In the end, Oyster has been ambitious in trying to squeeze in the features of its larger boats onto this design.

But it has been a successful project and, even as we hove in sight of Kiel’s green approaches, it was all too easy to imagine settling in and heeding the call of the high seas.

Verdict on the Oyster 495

New focus from Oyster and some modern hull design courtesy of Humphreys have given the Oyster 495 a modest performance boost and some welcome contemporary features.

However, she remains very true to Oyster’s keystone values of safety, seaworthiness and comfort. And in that sense, at least, she is not a radical boat.

Her layout, too, would be familiar to an Oyster 49 owner from 2001.

The Oyster 495 is built for serious long-distance cruising. Credit: Brian Carlin

There’s plenty of technology here – digital switching, plotters galore, good AV options and hydraulic sail controls. But it is not dressed up to be flashy.

The boat is solid, well-built and beautifully finished. She is easy to handle, capable and well organised.

Our only misgivings were about the less-than-easy halyard handling, and reliance on hydraulics for sail trim.

It’s all very neat, but is that really the priority for blue-water cruising?

As to whether she represents the world’s best 50ft blue-water yacht, time will tell, but with 16 boats sold off plan, some buyers clearly think so.

Would the Oyster 495 suit you and your crew?

Oysters are the stuff of dreams, and the new 495 is no exception.

If money were no object, and it needs not to be for this boat (our tricked-out test boat cost £1.6m ex-VAT or £1.92m inc VAT), then this is a vessel custom made to fulfil blue-water cruising hopes.

She would best suit a family with a steady flow of visiting friends, or a mix of older and younger kids.

The integral bowsprit on the Oyster 495 facilitates the setting of various offwind sails to maintain passage speeds. Credit: Brian Carlin

The disparity between the aft and fo’c’sle cabins rules out a project involving two couples.

She would also work well with a couple and some paid hands, although the ease of sail control and trim makes her perfectly viable for sailing solo or two-up.

There’s no reason that you couldn’t take the 495 up Britain’s rivers and estuaries, with her 2.28m draught and option for a 1.83m shoal keel.

But a boat of this capability demands to cover miles.

Sail round Britain , up to Svalbard , round the Mediterranean or around the world – the boat could undoubtedly handle it all with aplomb – but make sure you’re stretching her legs.

Solid, well-built and beautifully finished

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OYSTER 56 - 2004

£ 515,000 VAT Paid

OYSTER 625 - 2018

€ 2,250,000 VAT Paid

Oyster Palma

OYSTER 495 - 2022

$ 1,995,000 US Duty Paid

California, USA

OYSTER 56 - 2000

€ 399,000 VAT Paid

OYSTER 575 - 2018

$ 1,895,000

Oyster Newport, USA

OYSTER 655 - 2008

£ 900,000 VAT Paid

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OYSTER 55 - 1988

£ 269,000 VAT Paid

OYSTER 655 - 2009

€ 1,150,000 VAT Paid

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£ 760,000 VAT Excluded

OYSTER 825 - 2019

€ 3,900,000 VAT Excluded

OYSTER 56 - 2008

£ 700,000 VAT Excluded

OYSTER 82 - 2009

€ 1,950,000 VAT Paid

OYSTER 72 - 2009

$ 1,195,000 US Duty Paid

OYSTER 68 - 1991

€ 380,000 VAT Paid

OYSTER 625 - 2016

$ 2,350,000 US Duty Paid

OYSTER 625 - 2015

AUD 3,200,000 GST Paid

OYSTER 62 - 2003

€ 830,000 VAT Paid

OYSTER 575 - 2010

£ 750,000 VAT Excluded

Eastern Mediterranean

OYSTER 54 - 2010

£ 565,000 VAT Excluded

OYSTER 53 - 2003

£ 410,000 VAT Paid

OYSTER 53 - 2002

£ 395,000 VAT Paid

€ 795,000 VAT Paid

£ 1,395,000 VAT Excluded

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Why Oyster Brokerage?

Oyster Brokerage is the pre-owned Oyster specialist, with unrivalled expertise in buying and selling brokerage Oysters. We are proud to have brought buyers and sellers yachts for sale together for more than 38 years.

Our sailing yacht brokers have sold over 900 pre-owned Oysters, from 26 to 100 feet, and have an extensive collection of Oysters for sale. We know these sailing yachts inside out and have access to the build files of every Oyster built since 1978, not to mention the designers, project managers and craftspeople who built them. If you are looking to buy a yacht , no other sailing yacht brokerage is better qualified to help you sell or choose the right Oyster.

The go to destination for Oysters All this experience and inside knowledge, along with our unrivalled experience selling Oysters puts you one step ahead, whether you are buying or selling. We know many of our customers personally and we have refined our database of pre owned yachts over 45 years. So, we probably already know the next owner of your yacht!

For added reassurance, our sailing yacht brokerage department is accredited by the Association of Brokers and Yacht Agents, Mediterranean Yacht Broker’s Association and the Yacht Brokers Association of America.

Our seamless international service makes the brokerage experience effortless, so everyone involved benefits from our knowledge and guidance on all aspects of the process.

We offer expert guidance on handling offers, negotiations and contracts, as well as managing surveys, sea trials and closing documentation. Our industry-leading approach to marketing, analytics and market intelligence informs how we successfully get brokerage Oysters in front of the right people.

For Buyers If you are browsing our sailing yachts for sale or thinking of buying a pre-owned yacht, we can help you understand the fleet and guide you to the best Oyster model for your needs now and in the future. If you wish to buy a yacht listed elsewhere, we can represent you and support you with our knowledge and experience. For more information on buying a pre-owned Oyster click here.  

For Sellers Our yacht brokerage listing service represents owners wishing to sell their Oyster. We know how to complete complex international cross-border deals seamlessly. As a result, we have a proven track record of achieving the best value for Oyster brokerage yachts. For more information on selling your Oyster  click here.  

We offer worldwide coverage with a network of strategically placed brokerage offices in the UK, the Mediterranean and the USA, with representation in Australia. This gives us a global reach in very different marketplaces and enables us to perform cross market deals seamlessly.

Each hub boasts a team with an intimate knowledge of Oyster yachts who are ready to advise you on every aspect of choosing and owning the right yacht for you. Experienced in complex deals between offices, we can bring you and any brokerage Oyster together with ease.

Oyster Services When you buy a pre-owned yacht from Oyster, you become part of a family, brought together by a passion for sailing and the Oyster marque. You will get access to our world, from our Charter offering, crew placement and world class After Sales to Guardianage, technical support and servicing by Oyster experts.

As part of our family, you will also be welcomed to our world-famous events like regattas and the Oyster World Rally, and experience our complimentary health checks prior to the ARC. These will give you the chance to meet like-minded Oyster owners and enjoy unforgettable experiences.

Wherever you are in the world, there is an Oyster sailing yacht broker office within easy reach. You will find us in:

Ipswich, United Kingdom Our UK office offers a permanent used boat show ashore with Guardianage service and many years of Oyster expertise on hand. Our Customs Warehouse allows us to market ex VAT yacht from the UK. 

Palma de Mallorca, Europe Located at the gateway to the Mediterranean, Palma is home to the most extensive collection of Oysters available anywhere in the world. Our specialised team can offer Guardianage, servicing, crew placement and re-fit services.

Newport, RI, Americas Situated at the heart of the vibrant US yachting scene, our US office links North and South American buyers and sellers with the European market and vice versa. Newport is home to a wide range of Oysters, and our comprehensive US service offering.

Australian representation Located in Sydney, our local Oyster representative provides extensive knowledge and insight of the pre-owned Oyster brokerage market and ensures a truly international dimension to the Oyster brokerage network. To find out more, please get in touch with the Brokerage team.

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Contacts, downloads and useful information, your yacht brokerage questions answered.

We are the original manufacturer and we know Oyster Yachts inside out. We have sold over 900 pre-owned Oysters, from 26 to 100 feet, and have an extensive collection of Oysters for sale.

Yes, the Brokerage team will be with you every step of the way. We will help you sort out the transfer of ownership, insurance, licences and registration.

This depends on the buyer's situation but, on average, it takes four to six weeks to buy a brokerage yacht from first enquiry to signing the paperwork.

Prices can be negotiable, depending on the circumstances. For example, the length of time the yacht has been on the market may open the door to a discussion about the price.

We can introduce you to third party finance options, which are only available for buying a pre-owned yacht.

In short, yes! We strongly recommend this, using an independent surveyor, so you know exactly what you are buying.

Yes, just ask - if it's available we'll be happy to share it with you.

Yes, as soon as we have contracts and deposit in place.

We do not issue a warranty but you should be reassured by the results of your survey.

Lots of factors can have an effect - whether it is the price of the yacht, where it is located and its condition.

Oyster Brokerage is the pre-owned Oyster specialist, with unrivalled expertise in buying and selling brokerage Oysters. We have brought buyers and sellers together for more than 38 years.

KYC stands for Know Your Customer. Oyster Yachts is fully regulated and must comply with UK legislation, so we do KYC checks on all potential owners.

You will get the original title documentation and key documents when you take delivery of your yacht.

We are accredited by the ABYA in the UK, YBAA in the USA, MYBA - Mediterranean in Palma

Yes - we are willing to offer support for any transaction in terms of advice or assistance during the process.

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Oyster world rally.

Winner of European Yacht of the Year 2023. She sets a new 50 foot bluewater benchmark, offering a stunning combination of sailing performance, comfort, safety and luxurious living space.

Heralding a new generation of Oysters, this 60 foot bluewater cruiser is a sailing yacht for all oceans. Practical and well-provisioned for long distance sailing or cruising in coastal waters.

The much-anticipated Oyster 595 is well-proportioned and extremely versatile. Offering exciting, customised build options with no compromise, she is capable of great things.

A versatile sub-70 foot sailboat offering the perfect balance of size and practicality. She can be sailed shorthanded effortlessly or take a full crew and up to eight friends and family.

This long range 75 foot cruising yacht is designed for very big adventures. A joy to sail yourself, she also boasts dedicated crew quarters.

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An exhilarating 90 foot sailing yacht, delivering comfort and safety with uncompromising performance. She is capable of taking you anywhere in the world effortlessly, in luxury and style.

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• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

First look: Oyster 495

• June 30, 2021

Rupert Holmes gets the latest on the first new sub-50ft yacht launched by Oyster in many years, the Oyster 495.

The Oyster 495 is the first all-new sub 50ft Oyster model in 16 years and is one of the most important new models for the revitalised company since CEO Richard Hadida took the helm in 2018.

It follows the successful Oyster 565 that first hit the water two years ago, of which 17 have already been sold.

A huge effort has gone into developing the Oyster 495, including input from Oyster’s founder Richard Matthews, with the aim of refining the boat as much as possible, as well as making the best use of space.

It’s instantly recognisable as part of Oyster’s G6 family and retains a well-proportioned elegance – something that’s not easily achieved when scaling a concept down to a smaller size.

The 495’s styling includes many features which have already become a trademark of Oyster’s larger models, such as the flush foredeck, wrap-around deck saloon windows and triple seascape windows in the aft owner’s cabin — all sure to make the yacht stand out.

A hefty lightship displacement of 21 tonnes means the Oyster 495 will retain much of the big boat feel of its stablemates, even in heavy weather. Humphreys Yacht Design has drawn a powerful high stability hull, with maximum beam carried well aft, twin rudders and a characteristically long waterline.

It’s a shape that promises relaxed and comfortable passagemaking at high average speeds and low angles of heel, even upwind.

Oyster seems to recognise that for many owners ease of handling is a key reason for buying a smaller boat. The push-button sail handling systems from the larger models have therefore been retained. The electric mainsail furling is operated from the helm stations, while electric winches are standard, and the headsail furler can be upgraded to electric. A conventional fully-battened mainsail is offered as an option, as are bow and stern thrusters.

There’s more light in the galley and chart table areas than previous models thanks to the deck saloon windows having been extended further aft. The galley is in the traditional Oyster position, at the side of the centre cockpit, and offers plenty of worktop and stowage in a configuration that should suit use at sea.

Excellent owners’ cabins are also a key element of Oyster’s DNA and this is an area that has clearly been prioritised for this model. The broad stern sections that help give the boat form stability and sail carrying ability produce an immense amount of space. As a result, this part of the boat has a level of volume, comfort, stowage and style that’s rarely seen on a 50-footer.

Forward of the full-width saloon are a small Pullman-style cabin to starboard and a modest sized guest double forward. These share a heads compartment with a separate shower stall.

A high level of standard equipment includes Czone digital switching, allowing all lighting and equipment to be controlled from MFDs at both helm stations and the navigation station. There’s also internal and external mood lighting.

It’s clear that this will be a very different boat compared to existing sub-50ft Oysters – there have been enormous advances in yacht design and fit out during that time.

The Oyster 475 , launched in the mid-2010s was a great boat, even though it was a stretched version of the Oyster 46 that originally dates from 2005.

However, the Oyster 495 is demonstrably a very much larger vessel – waterline length and beam are 190cm and 35cm larger than those of the 475. Indeed they even exceed the measurements of the Oyster 545 . The payoff for the extra volume arguably comes in the comparatively high displacement and price.

Oyster is clearly betting heavily on strong demand after what Hadida describes as an “exceptional” year, particularly for the relatively new 565 and 595 models. The 495 will therefore be built at a newly-acquired dedicated facility at Hythe, where the Empress flying boats were once built on the banks of Southampton Water.

A number of orders have already been taken for the 495 and the first boat is scheduled to be afloat in 2022.

Oyster 495 specifications:

LOA: 16.1m / 52ft 8in Hull length: 15.15m / 49ft 7in LWL: 14.27m / 46ft 8in Beam: 4.77m / 15ft 8in Draught standard keel: 2.28m / 7ft 5in, shoal keel 1.83m / 6ft 0in Displacement: 21,000kg / 46,300lb Price ex VAT: £975,000 Builder: www.oysteryachts.com

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Sailboat Review: Oyster 495 Combines Performance and Power In Under 50 Feet

• By Kimball Livingston
• October 27, 2023

Few boats would merit a glance from a savvy, experienced skipper looking to consolidate the best qualities of his performance cruiser and his motoryacht into just one boat.

Someone might even ask: “Are you kidding me? Can you do that?”

Enter the Oyster 495.

As the smallest yacht the company has developed from concept since 2005, the 495 is rigorously detailed. It is true to the heritage of a builder where a 50-footer has become the entry-level model. 

For this latest raised-salon offering, Oyster created a new facility in Hythe, on the Southampton shores of southern England. The aim is to build 12 boats a year, and sales to date suggest that this figure is not overly ambitious. 

I encountered Genevieve , the well-traveled Hull No. 1, in Southern California, where the boat had been delivered to the owner in Santa Barbara after being shown extensively in Europe. She was purchased to replace a performance cruiser and a powerboat. 

First impressions count, and the 495 makes a great one. If you’re switching over from a different brand, forget about bringing along your plates and glassware. All of that is provided, with subtle logos and fitted stowage. Mood lighting is available at the touch of a button. The TV raises and disappears with another button. In the guest stateroom forward, hatches overhead open in opposite directions. The queen berth in the owner’s stateroom could be a boat-show sales tool, but the cabin top is equipped for the lee cloths you will need when the boat is doing what it is meant to do: go places. 

To that end, an aluminum mast with electric furling is standard, but Genevieve is equipped with a Seldén carbon rig with in-mast electric furling and a hydraulics package including a mainsheet, vang, outhaul, backstay, and ­in-boom ram. In operation, it was whisper-quiet. 

The twin wheels offer clear sightlines from secure footing, along with command posts that have buttons to deploy and furl sails, and to adjust everything adjustable without straining a finger or risking a hangnail. Lewmar EVO primaries are handy, just outboard of the helm stations. Optional dual thrusters make everyone a hero going and coming to the dock, and smaller items such as pre-rigged preventers speak to that shadowy concierge who seems to have been everywhere. 

With four of us aboard, the cockpit was more than ­generous. I imagined many sociable scenes to come as the sails came out. The Yanmar saildrive was so quiet, it had to go off for me to even notice it had been on. Put that down to sandwich insulation glued, not screwed. 

The breeze was single digits, not enough to make the boat light up under a 105 percent jib, and we were dragging a wide transom and two rudders. Nevertheless, it was enjoyable sailing. I also appreciated seeing the cabin house square to the seating, to make a comfortable backrest looking aft, stretched out on passage. Rounding the forward backing the way some manufacturers do may work when you’re not going anywhere, but what is a boat for? 

The cockpit is laid out to walk on a single level back to a full-beam lazarette, which has ample stowage and access to the steering, backstay, exhaust and seacocks. Step back farther, and you are stepping down a reverse transom to a shower and an electronically operated swim platform. When the boat is stern-tied, that will be the boarding ladder. 

Belowdecks is bright, with close attention to ­ventilation. The opening coachroof windows in the salon will delight passengers in a tropical anchorage with the breeze wafting through. Batteries and tankage are centered under the salon sole, focusing the weight where it belongs. A U-shaped galley, two steps down to port, places most of the cook’s needs at hand in a space where it will be easy to brace underway, and the cook is not isolated from crew and guests. The twin sinks are on centerline for efficient drainage. 

The saloon table lowers to bed height for those who are overblessed with kids or grandkids, and the step-down nav station is separated but not isolated. A swing-out computer screen is here, along with CZone control and monitoring instead of fuse panels. A freezer is abaft the nav station, where it won’t see a lot of traffic unless it’s stocked with ice cream for those kids. 

Opposite the nav station, twin doors open wide to an engine compartment thoughtfully laid out to be serviced without provoking naughty words. Clear labeling matters, and I liked seeing the Panda generator within a sound-­insulated compartment.  

All the way aft, the owner’s stateroom has 6 feet, 4 inches of headroom, a sofa, cedar-lined lockers, escape hatches, and Oyster’s signature vertical portlights for a special view of the world. Forward of the salon is a cozy over/under double that shares a head and shower with the bright and airy forward stateroom. Nowhere above or belowdecks does the level of fit-and-finish fall short. 

Oyster describes the hull as an “overspecified laminate resin structure with a combination of stringers and frames for extreme strength and durability.” I believe it. Genevieve had the L-shaped standard keel and a draft of 7 feet, 5 inches. A shoal-draft keel is an option. 

Lunch waited ashore, ­creating an opportunity to ­observe how magically the sails disappeared and how comfortably the boat motored at 9-plus knots. It’s replacing a powerboat, remember. There was also a moment to ­demonstrate that, under power, the Oyster 495 will spin in its own length. That gave me a grin too.

Oyster 495 Specifications

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Founded in 1973, Oyster Marine is an established international market leader of world-class cruising yachts. Yachting World named Oyster the United Kingdom’s most successful builder of large series cruising yachts. Oyster’s core values are strength, sea worthiness, and a multitude of practical, sailing features. Customer loyalty has earned Oyster the business of custom builds from repeat customers.

Oyster Marine, founded in 1973, is an established international market leader of world-class cruising yachts. Oyster sailing yachts are famed for their distinctive deck saloon deck design and are globally recognized for quality, comfort, and performance.

With 40 years of boat-building experience, Oyster has made advancements to its designs and construction techniques while keeping the same core values of strength, seaworthiness, and a multitude of practical, sailing features. Every Oyster has its own quality control build log to monitor the construction process. Oyster yachts have award-winning sailing performance. Over the years, several Oysters have been class winners in the ARC transatlantic.

• Year Established 1973
• Shipyard Location Southampton and Wroxham, United Kingdom
• Boat Construction Fiberglass
• Boat Category Cruising Yachts, Sailing Yachts
• Worthy Notations Yachting World named Oyster the UK’s most successful builder of large series produced cruising yachts.

Oyster Yachts For Sale

89' oyster 2015, izola, slovenia, 82' oyster 2016, barcelona, spain, 82' oyster 2019, palma, spain, 81' oyster 1993, curacao, netherlands antilles, 66' oyster 2008, barcelona, es-b, spain, 64' oyster 2019, newport, ri.

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• The New Rolexes Are Almost Here: We Asked 9 Watch-World Insiders for Their Predictions

Collectors, dealers, and auction house experts offer their best guesses.

Victoria gomelsky, victoria gomelsky's most recent stories.

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Robb Report asked a cohort of Rolex lovers—a mix of pre-owned sellers, collectors, and auctioneers—to weigh in with more specific predictions. Based on the comments below, an updated Rolex GMT-Master II “Coke” reference (featuring a distinctive black and red bezel) may well be the brand’s big reveal. A new Submariner and precious metal variations of the Daytona would also be in line with expectations. A few people also made it clear that, hope against hope, the Crown would see fit to unveil a new Milgauss.

“Rolex are experts at keeping secrets,” says Ganjei, CEO and head curator of European Watch Company . “The truth is, nobody knows what Rolex is going to do, ever.”

William Massena, founder of Massena LAB

My bet is that Grandpa Rolex will go back to what it knows best: introducing an improved version of an existing model on the Oyster line. The surprise might occur with the new 1908 collection—I would not be surprised if they added some references there and expanded the line.

Finally, the use of titanium in the Oyster Professional collection will be something that many observers will be looking for (but Rolex is known to be rather slow when it comes to evolving and expanding that line).

Paul Boutros, Phillips’ deputy chairman and head of watches, Americas

Eugene Tutunikov, CEO of SwissWatchExpo

In 2024, the anticipation surrounding Rolex releases is high, with expectations for a blend of predictability and innovation. Building upon the previous year’s trend of emoji-themed watches, 2024 could witness a shift towards revitalizing Rolex’s timeless classics with innovative materials and vibrant color schemes. This could entail introducing new hues to traditional models or experimenting with novel materials to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.

One of the most significant events in the Rolex timeline is the 70th anniversary of the GMT-Master, which debuted in 1954. This milestone is likely to be commemorated with special releases and editions that pay homage to the iconic timepiece. Given Rolex’s penchant for exclusivity and luxury, enthusiasts can expect to see exciting variations of the GMT-Master, possibly incorporating precious metals like gold or platinum.

A new iteration of the GMT-Master II is anticipated, possibly featuring a revived version of the beloved red/black “Coke” bezel. This iconic design element may receive a modern twist, such as being crafted in a precious metal that hasn’t been utilized before, adding a fresh dimension to the classic aesthetic.

I also foresee a new watch to commemorate the Rolex Submariner that was first unveiled at Baselworld in 1954. Again, a variation of precious metals might be added to the mix such as platinum. I’m also hoping for an element of surprise—perhaps a hint of red text adorning the dial, which hasn’t been seen since the ’70s.

Henry Flores, founder of the Classic Watch Club in New York City

Maybe Rolex will release a “Coke” GMT with a black and red bezel and discontinue the “Pepsi.” I’ve heard anecdotally through some authorized dealers that they’ve hardly seen any Pepsi GMTs come through their doors last year or the first quarter of this year. 

Paul Altieri, founder and CEO of Bob’s Watches

We could see an updated Rolex GMT-Master II “Coke” reference 126710BLRO [a “Pepsi” version of the model is pictured below] at Watches & Wonders. The current-gen model with the black and red “Coca-Cola” bezel has been around since 2018, putting it near the typical six- to seven-year Rolex product cycle for refreshes.

Don’t expect any dramatic aesthetic departures from the beloved bi-color bezel look. But Rolex may update the movement with a new caliber offering extended power reserve or other technical enhancements. An increased case size from 40 mm to better align with modern 41 mm models like the Submariner is also possible, though I doubt they’d stray too far from the classic Coke formula.

As a pillar of Rolex’s lineup, you can count on refinements versus any radical overhaul of this icon. But a new Coke variant would definitely generate buzz as a highlight release. The GMT collection is hugely important, so Rolex will be careful while aiming to improve the product. An updated Coke would be a major unveiling.

Giovanni Prigigallo, co-founder of EveryWatch

I do not anticipate Rolex making a habit of releasing unconventional watches like the Emoji Day-Date or the Celebrations dial on the Oyster Perpetual. As usual, Rolex aims to maintain an element of unpredictability in their releases, so offering similar pieces would be out of character for the brand.

Instead, I expect Rolex to shift its attention back to its timeless classics. I wouldn’t be surprised to see an evolution in the Submariner, as it has been a while since its last update. Likewise, the GMT line may see some exciting innovations. There have been longstanding rumors about the challenges in producing the Pepsi Bezel, so it wouldn’t be unexpected if Rolex decides to discontinue this model and introduce something fresh in its place.

Eddie Goziker, president of Wrist Aficionado

Firstly, I believe Rolex will finally bring back the highly anticipated GMT-Master II “Coke” with its iconic black and red bezel. Fans have been clamoring for its return, and Rolex seems ready to deliver, especially considering the rumored patent they filed for the black/red ceramic bezel.

Moreover, we may see the discontinuation of the left-handed GMT-Master II “Sprite,” as Rolex is known for its conservative approach and likely won’t keep a funky left-handed watch in their catalogue for long. Or, maybe, they’ll flip it back to a regular right-handed watch.

Moving on to the Daytona, I foresee the new model to herald the return of the meteorite dial, reminiscent of the very popular meteorite dial that was recently discontinued. Additionally, Rolex may introduce gold Daytona models with colorful dials, which would be a refreshing change from the current monochromatic designs. Colorful Daytonas have been popular so it makes sense Rolex will bring them back to push precious metal Daytona sales.

For the Submariner and Sea-Dweller collections, we are hoping Rolex finally introduces steel models with the Oysterflex bracelet, fulfilling the wishes of sports enthusiasts seeking a rubber-clad waterproof option. Another possibility is a rose gold Submariner with a green dial, perhaps in the popular olive shade. Alternatively, we would love to see a white gold “Hulk” variant, a “Hulk 2.0” if you will.

Joshua Ganjei, CEO and head curator of European Watch Company

With the reintroduced Pepsi already out for a number of years, it seems logical for a “Coke,” or black and red, bezel GMT. Both vintage references are highly popular.

Geoff Hess, Sotheby’s head of watches for the Americas and founder of RollieFest

I predict Rolex this year will remain loyal to its unparalleled track record of consistency and will focus on making only incremental and slight changes to current models. I think we’ll see their tried-and-true formulas in full force, with only modest modifications to existing designs to make the product minimally better. 

When it comes to innovation we typically think of large, dramatic alterations, but far more than in recent years, I believe the Rolex product this season will remain largely the same, and consistently great, but with only slight enhancements to the current lineup.  

Like no other brand, Rolex has found a way to make mass-produced luxury timepieces appear truly rare, and in turn, they become instantly coveted. New product is typically somewhat predictable for them, and always consistent. Accordingly, the brand is protected from market mistakes. In this exciting time of year for our hobby, Rolex will present an evolution, not a revolution.  

Victoria Gomelsky is editor-in-chief of the jewelry trade publication JCK and a frequent contributor to the New York Times and Robb Report. Her freelance work has appeared in AFAR, WSJ Magazine, The…

Read More On:

• GMT-Master II
• Rolex Daytona
• Watches and Wonders

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