European Newcomers

Two blue water boats and a hot new weekender 

- Peter Nielsen

In the world of dedicated bluewater cruising boats, Amel’s turnkey cruisers have won a strong and devoted following. The French builder doesn’t release new models very often, which is why it’s a pleasure to see the renderings of the new Amel 50. This center cockpit boat is bound to raise some eyebrows among traditionalists, though. It is a sloop, not a ketch, and its twin rudders, bluff blow and slight reverse sheer signify a new look, if not a new direction, for Amel.

Why did the mizzen get the boot? As designer Olivier Racoupeau acknowledges, modern powered winches and push-button furling make it so easy to handle a sloop rig that the prime reason for a split rig—ease of handling— has become redundant. The hull form is designed for good all-round performance, but its long waterline and broad hindquarters suggest it will come into its own off the wind.

The interior styling is ultra-modern yet practical, and is flooded with light through large hull ports and deck hatches. The three cabin layout can be finished in a choice of trims and includes a sumptuous master stateroom , with an ensuite heads. The two forward cabins share a heads/shower.