Beneteau isn’t the only French boat maker in town! Wauquiez has been making quality blue-ocean cruisers for decades, and now they welcome their newest build, the Pilot Saloon 42, to their fleet come March 2018. As with all Wauquiez yachts built at the company’s yard in Neuville-en-Ferrain near France’s northern border, the Pilot Saloon 42 goes best with a bottle of Champagne (the nearest iconic wine region) and a box of Belgian chocolates from next door.
With modern styling and an emphasis on safety and comfort, the 42 should fit right in with other comparable Euro-cruisers of 2018.
Right away, one spies the hallmarks of the modern Euro-cruiser: an efficient plumb bow, a cockpit that has both the dual helms of a racer and the foldable cockpit table with seating to entertain like a cruiser, a low-profile above-waterline design, and bow/hull chines. The 42 also features a dual-rudder configuration and two optional keels (standard vs. deep) that should equip the skipper with what he or she needs to take on open vs. inland waters of all kinds.
The foldable transom is comparable to those on Beneteau, Hanse, and Dehler sailboats, and a popular, proven setup. As far as the engine is concerned, a 54 CV Yanmar SD (sail drive) is standard, while the 80 CV Yanmar SD is offered as an option.
The Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 42 has “saloon” in the name for a reason, and some of the 42’s most standout features are below deck. The companionway is oriented forward, nearly amidships, and the hatch, when open, has an almost convertible effect on the cabin.
Downstairs, a visitor is greeted by one or two layouts (two-cabin or three-cabin). Both layouts enjoy the signature Wauquiez salon with extra lighting, thanks to the raised profile of the “pilothouse” design that offers panoramic views. The full galley and a chart table with seating is oriented port, while family-style wraparound seating with a table sits starboard. The master suite, complete with large berth and en suite head, is located at the bow, while either one or two staterooms, also with access to another enclosed head, are aft of the stairs.
Interested? The Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 42 sails her maiden voyage in March 2018, and there’s sure to be plenty of buzz. You can learn more from the Seattle-based, West Coast dealer Discovery Yachts, which recently took on the line. The base price is $449,806.
