PATRICE

The Oyster 575 was designed by Rob Humphreys and the Oyster Design Team to replace the Oyster 56, which had been our most popular model with 75 launched. Built on owners’ feedback on the 56, the 575 was designed and engineered as a direct replacement – a long range, ocean going, bluewater cruiser and live aboard, which can be easily handled by a couple.

Overall, the 575 is a little larger than the 56, with a longer waterline length, deeper keel, increased sail area and fuel tankage. She feels like a ‘bigger’ yacht, with more headroom and a beam that is carried further aft, enhancing offwind performance and allowing a more spacious owner’s stateroom. The biggest upgrade, though, was reserved for the cockpit, which now features twin wheels, a centreline walkway aft, and distinct working and relaxing areas.

Oyster’s fifth generation deck saloon design gives the 575 an attractive profile at sea. She is well mannered and reassuring, comfortable in all conditions, and with a turn of speed that will keep the most demanding sailor fully engaged. The first 575 was launched in 2010, and the last one, the 44th to be built, was launched in 2019. The 575 is a proven circumnavigator and consummate ocean cruiser and has only left the Oyster line up recently to be replaced by the new Oyster 565.

Patrice is her owner’s second 575 and is still in her original ownership. Originally specified for use in the challenging waters of the west of Scotland, careful thought was given to making her easy to handle; she has arguably the simplest possible rig with hydraulic push button furling to her mainsail and genoa and hydraulic powered primary and mainsheet winches. That philosophy was carried through to performance under power, she has both bow and stern thrusters to simplify manoeuvres in harbour.

Her shallow keel means she draws just 2.06m (6’9”), greatly enhancing her ability to sail into smaller bays and anchorages. Very lightly used, Patrice has under 1000 hours on the engine and only 150 hours on the generator. Down below her joinery is hand finished in maple with walnut cabin soles, giving a wonderful light and modern feel to the interior where she sleeps seven in four cabins. A new motorboat forces her owner to put her on the market, and she is available for viewing in Ipswich at any convenient time.