Beneteau
Oceanis 55
The Beneteau Oceanis 55 (Berret-Racoupeau design, 2013-2017) represents a milestone in the evolution of the Oceanis line, introducing a hard chine that runs the full length of the hull for increased stability and interior volume. Positioned as a luxury offshore cruiser, it appeals to owners who want a modern, "apartment-style" interior combined with a hull that can handle serious sea conditions. The massive swim platform and open cockpit layout redefined social space on a 55-footer, making it a favorite for both private use and high-end charter.
Surveyors should focus on the complex electrical and hydraulic systems, including the large electric transom platform and the optional 360 Docking (joystick) system, which requires specialized maintenance. The hard chine can be a point of localized stress if the boat has been heavily grounded; inspect the internal grid along the chine line. The large hull windows, while providing spectacular views, should be checked for any signs of "weeping" or UV degradation of the sealant. Additionally, verify the condition of the rudder bearings and the synchronization of the twin-wheel steering system.
In use, the Oceanis 55 is a stable and powerful sailer that settles nicely on its chine in a breeze. The interior is exceptionally bright and modern, with a layout that prioritizes owner comfort, including a large master suite forward. Market context is very strong, as the 55 is often seen as the "sweet spot" in the Beneteau range—large enough for true luxury but still small enough to be owner-operated without a full-time crew.
At a glance
Quick facts
- Production
- 2013–2017
- LOA
- 16.78 m
- Beam
- 4.96 m
- Model
- Oceanis 55
Key takeaways
- Best for: stylish coastal cruising and grand touring for couples
- Common issue: tender garage seal leaks and mainsheet arch stress cracking
- Typical price: premium over the 54, competes with Hanse 575
Expert verdict
FairHelm rating: 7.7/10 — Striking hard-chined cruiser; inspect tender garage seals and mainsheet arch integrity.
Vadim Nareyko, FairHelm Editorial · Last reviewed: 2026-07-12
Technical data
- Length overall (LOA)
- 16.78 m
- Beam
- 4.96 m
- Production years
- 2013–2017
Typical problems
Buyer FAQ
- What is the benefit of the full-length chine on the Oceanis 55?
It provides excellent initial stability and creates significantly more interior volume, especially in the aft cabins and saloon.
- Does the Oceanis 55 come with a tender garage?
No, the 55 uses a large lazarette and a folding transom platform for tender storage and access.
- What is the "360 Docking" system?
It is a joystick control system that integrates the sail drive and bow thruster to make docking in tight spaces much easier for the helmsman.
- How many cabins does the Oceanis 55 typically have?
It is available in 3, 4, or 5-cabin layouts, with the 3-cabin owner's version being the most sought after for private use.
- What should I check when buying a used Oceanis 55?
Focus on the hydraulic transom mechanism, the condition of the large hull windows, and the service history of the 360 Docking system if fitted.
Design History
Oceanis 55 emerged when Scandinavian and North Sea yards were scaling reliable GRP cruising platforms for owner crews rather than charter fleets. French production shaped the hull lines and interior volume for predictable manners in Baltic chop and North Sea swell. Production ran from 2013 to 2017; registry and owner-club sources cite approximately ~120–930 completed hulls.
Beneteau positioned the Oceanis 55 for coastal and offshore use in the 2013–ongoing production window — explaining mixed maintenance histories on the secondary market today.
Mid-production changes were mostly interior trim, engine options, and deck hardware rather than fundamental hull revisions. That means survey condition, winter storage history, and rigging invoices usually matter more than the model year printed on the brochure. When you evaluate a Oceanis 55 on Blocket, treat the maintenance story as part of the specification — not a footnote after the asking price.
Annual Ownership Costs
| Cost item | Low (SEK) | High (SEK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marina berth | 22,000 | 48,000 | 16.8 m class, Stockholm/Gothenburg |
| Insurance | 8 000 | 22 000 | Agreed value and cruising area |
| Haul-out + winter | 12 000 | 28 000 | Yard package varies by region |
| Antifouling + hull care | 6 000 | 16 000 | Materials and labour |
| Engine / drivetrain | 5 000 | 16 000 | Service intervals and saildrive |
| Rigging reserve | 7 000 | 20 000 | Standing rigging age |
| Deck / structural reserve | 6 000 | 22 000 | Bedding, moisture follow-up |
| Total annual | 62 000 | 172 000 | Excludes major refit years |
Annual ownership for Oceanis 55 is predictable when service records are complete. Berth, storage, and insurance dominate fixed costs in Sweden. The largest variables are rigging replacement timing and any survey-led deck or drivetrain work triggered after purchase. Keep a separate technical reserve so routine season costs stay stable — especially on Blocket boats marketed as "ready to sail" without invoices.
Pre-Purchase Survey Checklist
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist: Oceanis 55
Hull, Keel and Underwater Body
- Moisture-map the underwater hull; document osmosis or barrier-coat history on Oceanis 55 GRP of this era.
- Inspect keel-to-hull joint, keel bolts (if external iron), and backing structure for movement or recurring fairing cracks.
- Check rudder bearings and steering linkage under load during sea trial.
Deck and Hardware
- Test bedding at stanchions, tracks, and winches; open nearby interior access if damp stains appear.
- Inspect hatches and portlights for seal compression and core moisture at corners.
- Verify chainplate areas internally for rust staining or soft laminate.
Rig and Sail Systems
- Confirm standing rigging age with invoices; treat unknown age as near-term replacement on club-used hulls.
- Inspect mast step, spreaders, and terminals for corrosion or fatigue marks.
- Operate furling and reefing systems under realistic load.
Machinery and Systems
- Review engine and saildrive service including cooling, exhaust elbow, and mounts.
- Audit batteries, charging, and owner-added electrical work for safe fusing.
- Check tanks, bilges, and hoses for age-related seepage.