Bénéteau Océanis 510 ClipperRef. VP270

In the 1980s, thanks also to a change in the French government's tax legislation, the French yachting industry was able to take off strongly and grow, almost without stopping, until today. Bénéteau became the largest shipyard in the world and in a very short time was able to offer a range of boats, of ever greater lengths, suitable for offshore cruising. Between the end of the 1980s and the early 1990s, the Océanis 500 was a real commercial success, with some 200 built, and the Océanis 510, its natural final evolution, did not disappoint either, with another 100 produced. Then came the Bénéteau 50, which set new records. The 500 and 510 were characterised by their large internal and external dimensions, the high standard of finish, the design and the clever use of quality wood. The hull designed by a then young Philippe Briand gives it good performance, especially downwind and good manoeuvrability in confined spaces. The rigging, very practical, has all the sails furling and is served by a battery of winches of dimensions and quality that will not be seen in later models. On deck, although the manoeuvring and relief areas are not entirely separate, they are marked by the two-wheel binnacles. Access to the stern platform is immediate and was then a real innovation. The unit on offer has always been in private hands and constantly maintained by her owners. She has sailed little lately, due to the age of her owner and is in need of some care and cleaning. This is the shipowner's version, with three large cabins each with an ensuite. There is also a crew cabin in the forepeak. The boat is seaworthy and everything on board is in good working order, the interior upholstery as well as the ceilings throughout the boat are recent. The antifouling and hull have been completely renewed and the furling system of the mainsail is also very recent and is served by an electric winch. The electronics are old, but functional and complete. The teak deck is in need of care, sails and rigging are fine, with their years. The engine is up to date, although in need of a paint cycle. This boat is a superb, comfortable and easy to use globetrotter, quite ready to sail away.