The Jeanneau New Concept 795 is a French import that introduces the notion of the “pocket cruiser” to North American waters and, indeed, to North American boaters. This is an immensely popular European-style boat because it does a number of things surprisingly well. How well?
It’s based on the 755 model, of which more than 1,000 were built by the massive Jeanneau-Beneteau operation. This new boat benefits from a number of upgrades and improvements designed to enhance the ownership experience.
Certainly one of the selling points is that this is an all-weather cruiser perfect for families. When it’s warm, open the huge cabin sliding doors and savor express cruiser outdoor living. But if it’s cold or wet, slide the doors closed and enjoy the snug comfort.
The large windows and one-level salon-cockpit floor (with a 29-inch coaming height) are a bonus for families, and a lifting seat lets you walk onto the transom platform. The dinette to port benefits from those oversize low-cut windows for a view while seated, and it converts into a berth for kids or reverses as a forward-facing companion seat.
The galley is a kitchenette along the starboard side. The one-burner stove won’t turn out gourmet fare, but it’s enough for basic overnighting, with a small sink and minifridge under the dinette seat.
The helm is a tidy molded affair, with space for a Lowrance 6.5-inch GPS/plotter as well as engine monitors. A flip-up bolster seat allows standing or sitting next to an opening window.
Down a step in the forward cabin is an enclosed head to port, with molded fiberglass for easy cleaning. A shower located in the cockpit is perfect for de-sanding your crew following an afternoon of beachcombing.
A multisided berth is forward, with a filler cushion for added size. Headroom is pleasantly high, and an opening hatch provides fresh air and light.
One part of the pocket-cruiser concept is portability, and the 795 uses outboard power to 200 hp. On our test boat, a Yamaha 200 gave us nearly 40 mph.
An all-weather pocket cruiser is going to be mighty appealing to families because it checks off a lot of boxes.
High Points
* Oversize sliding door provides all-weather boating. Cockpit access is great.
* Tables and seating can be converted into beds and sun pads.
* Large windows in the New Concept 795 allow crew seated in the cabin to see out from the dinette. Also, they rid boaters of the bane of clear canvas curtains.
How We Tested
Engine: Yamaha F200 hp
Drive/Prop: Outboard/14½” x 14″ stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.86:1
Fuel Load: 70 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
Price
$90,000 (with engine)
Contact
Jeanneau America Annapolis, Maryland; 410-280-9400; jeanneauamerica.com
