The Oyster team expressed their delight in winning the prestigious European Yacht of the Year Award in the Luxury Cruiser category and felt humbled to have been nominated.
The design, construction, and delivery of the Oyster 495 marked a significant milestone for the company, particularly as they celebrated their 50th year. Despite being the smallest yacht in their fleet, the Oyster 495 embodied all the attributes of their larger superyachts, providing a luxurious experience within a compact 50-foot vessel. The yacht's design also allowed for easy sailing with fewer crew members.
Right from the beginning, the team had set high standards for the Oyster 495, aspiring for it to be the benchmark for 50-foot bluewater sailing yachts. They are confident that they achieved their objective based on the rigorous evaluation criteria of the European Yacht of the Year and the verdict of 12 of the most respected sailing journalists in Europe.
“So reassuringly strong, so surprisingly quick in straight line speed, so great to helm, so easy to handle and so, so comfortable if you want to retreat to her living quarters!”
Jochen Rieker Chairman of the European Yacht of the Year Jury and Chief Editor of Yacht Germany
“At its heart is a wonderfully (Humphreys) designed and engineered luxury bluewater cruiser, conceived from the ground up, built in a new dedicated facility to a repeatable quality very few yards are capable of.
The 495 offers consistent passage making speeds in real voluminous comfort – whether enjoyed from the deep cockpit or the best-in-class aft cabin. Deck stowage and mechanical space is also superb. Then factor in the family appeal of Oyster’s after sales and world rally programme and you start to appreciate the premium world this sub 50 footer gives access to.”
Toby Hodges, UK judge, Yachting World journalist and judge
“A true bluewater cruiser that makes no compromise in terms of comfort, safety or sailing abilities.”
Loic Madeline, French judge and Voiles & Voiliers journalist
“The entry level of the Oyster range brings with it the build quality and customisation typical of the yard’s largest models… perfect for a couple’s globetrotting dreams.”
Alberto Mariotti, Italian judge, Director Editor of Vela E Motore