Oyster 495 wins European Yacht of the Year 2023

We were delighted to win the prestigious European Yacht of the Year Award in the Luxury Cruiser category, and humbled to have been nominated.

Designing, building and delivering the Oyster 495 marks a major milestone for Oyster coming into our 50th year.  As the ‘baby’ of our fleet, she embodies all of the aspects of our much-loved larger superyachts, all within a compact 50 foot yacht. She feels much larger and more luxurious than other yachts of this size and can be sailed shorthanded with ease.

From the outset, we set the bar high for the Oyster 495 – the benchmark 50 foot bluewater sailing yacht, and nothing less. Based on the reputation of European Yacht of the Year’s demanding judging criteria and in recognition of the verdict from 12 of the most respected and revered sailing journalists in Europe, we are confident we achieved our objective.

“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

For more information on the Oyster 495, Luxury Cruiser, European Yacht of the Year 2023:

Oyster 495/02 TORTUGA, owned by Former Formula One team owner and race winner, Eddie Jordan was the Oyster 495 tested for the European Yacht of the Year 2023, in Port Ginesta, Spain.

The second yacht delivered from the Oyster 495 production line, Eddie’s "little treasure" met his desire for outstanding speed and performance at the Oyster Palma Regatta 2022. More on this story below.