It’s time for a fresh Oyster—yacht, that is.
The British shipyard has just unveiled a new 52-foot sailing yacht, taking its total model count up to eight. The current lineup includes bluewater sailers ranging from 50 to 90 feet, with the new Oyster 515 representing the next generation of the entry-level 50-foot range.
Created by Oyster’s in-house team in collaboration with Humphreys Yacht Design, the 515 takes design cues from the award-winning 495, but has a larger sail area, greater volume, more contemporary styling, and a revamped aft deck with a superyacht-style beach club.
“The Oyster 515 builds on the success of the Oyster 495 and everything we have learned from more than 50 years of designing, building and supporting yachts for bluewater sailing,” Oyster CEO Stefan Zimmermann said in a statement. “We have evolved her around how owners want to sail and live today, combining true ocean-going capability with a completely reimagined aft deck, a closer connection to the water and a state-of-the-art beach club experience unlike anything else currently available in this class.”
The reimagined aft deck.
Oyster Yachts
The new aft deck creates space for relaxing, entertaining, and general luxuriating by the water’s edge. The centerpiece is an expansive beach club with a sunken lounge and a fold-out swim platform reminiscent of those found on most modern superyachts. Further forward, the cockpit features an al fresco dining area with upholstered seating, the helm houses two new wing seats, and the lazarette stowage offers space for water toys and equipment. Owners also have the option of adding an integrated tender garage if extra storage space is required.
Below deck, the living quarters are designed for long-range voyages, with a three-cabin layout that Oyster says delivers the space and privacy of a much larger yacht. The interiors are fitted with the yard’s signature seascape windows, creating a light, airy atmosphere within. At the center lies a large salon, with a full-beam owner’s suite aft and two guest cabins (a double and single) forward.
The salon.
Oyster Yachts
The naval architecture has also evolved from previous models, with the 515 showcasing a revised sail plan, increased sail area, twin rudders, and powered sail-handling systems that together ensure responsive handling. Owners can opt for a shoal draft keel, too, if they wish to cruise in shallow, more remote waters. The yacht can be easily operated by a couple or family with or without a crew, according to Oyster.
The announcement of the new 515 comes at a busy time for Oyster. The yard sold two 885s in a single week earlier this year, reflecting continued demand for its flagship bluewater sailer. It also has more new models in the pipeline.
“The Oyster 515 marks the beginning of the next generation of Oyster bluewater sailing and the Oyster ownership experience, and is the first step in an exciting programme of product and innovation launches that will unfold over the coming months,” adds Zimmermann.
Click here to see more photos of the Oyster 515.
Oyster Yachts
