Richard Matthews, founder of Oyster Yachts and owner of Oyster 82 Midnight, holds a special affinity for the model, cherishing her outstanding profile and balanced proportions. “We frequently spend about 60 nights a year onboard Midnight. I can honestly say if I were building new again today, I can't think of very much I would change.” With a layout meticulously designed for both practicality and comfort, Matthews was impressed by the yacht's cockpit and versatile saloon, catering to diverse onboard activities, from formal dinners to relaxed movie nights. “The cockpit with a table on either side, allows the vessel to keep operating well underway. It’s very comfortable for 4-6 to have a meal using one side of the table, or for 6 - 10 to open out both sides for a nice group lunch. I also like the upper/lower concept of the saloon, which on Midnight and all 82’s works really well. The crew can lay a table for dinner and if needs be others can sit in the lower seating area having a drink at the coffee table or watching a movie. It's a good place for kids too because they can have their own space on board.”
Designed for powerful sailing performance, the Oyster 82 boasts a versatile sail plan, with a 130 percent overlap cutter configuration favoured for its stability in various weather conditions. Rob Humphreys, the esteemed yacht designer, underscores the yacht's prowess in both regatta racing and bluewater cruising, noting its remarkable responsiveness on the helm. “The yacht is a real, solid passagemaker, able to clock away the miles in almost a modest, unruffled way. Nicely balanced, stiff and weatherly. Her general characteristics, layout and comfortable motion augurs well for many more decades of bluewater sailing.” The 82’s hydrodynamic hull design ensures optimal lift and minimal drag, resulting in exceptional speed and agility across all points of sail. Integral features such as in-line spreaders enhance rigidity, providing reassurance during intense manoeuvres and heavy weather passages. With an average cruising speed of 180 miles per day, and the potential for impressive 240-mile days under favourable conditions, the Oyster 82 exemplifies unparalleled bluewater performance on the open ocean.
Below deck, full standing headroom and a centerline passageway leading aft to the owner’s stateroom boasting a generous 18-foot-wide layout with private access to the aft deck. Two twin-bedded guest cabins, each with ensuite facilities, ensure a restful retreat for overnight voyages. The main saloon, with its expansive layout, serves as the heart of the Oyster 82’s social space. Featuring a 10-seat circular dining area on one level and a second dining/lounge area on a lower level, the saloon offers panoramic views and ample space for entertaining.
Beyond its technical ability, the Oyster 82 epitomises a legacy of luxury and adventure. With a history of successful Atlantic crossings and prestigious race victories, the model has earned its place as a symbol of excellence in the world of sailing. Paul Bennett, a previous Oyster 82 captain and technical support manager at Oyster Yachts describes the thrill of sailing an Oyster 82. "Thundering upwind at regattas, punching through overfalls in the Alderney race, surfing down rolling waves mid ocean, always with a big smile... a boat as capable as an Oyster 82 delivers in so many ways, rewarding to sail and reeling off bluewater miles effortlessly".
With accolades from industry experts and sailing enthusiasts alike, the Oyster 82 continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of bluewater cruising, promising unmatched comfort, reliability, and performance on every adventure.
I can honestly say if I were building new again today, I can't think of very much I would change.
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