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1991 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey Sold Boat in Stuart, FL US
Built in 1991
Sun Odyssey
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44 feet
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Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other Jeanneau Sun Odyssey boats for sale in Florida, United States
Other Jeanneau boats for sale in Florida, United States
Jeanneau Sun Odyssey: BoatTEST Review
Overview
The Sun Odyssey 490 represents Jeanneau's latest flagship in their Walkaround series, combining innovative design with performance and comfort. Measuring 47 feet 3 inches overall with a beam of 14 feet 8 inches, this sailboat offers a versatile platform suitable for both day sailing and extended cruising. Our test boat featured an 80 horsepower Yanmar sail drive engine and a shoal draft keel option of 5 feet 4 inches, accommodating a test crew weight of approximately 26,380 pounds.
Exterior Design and Deck Layout
The Sun Odyssey 490's exterior is thoughtfully designed for ease of movement and safety. Its walk-around deck features 1 foot 3 inch wide side decks that run unobstructed from stern to bow, complemented by 2-foot high lifelines integrated into the gunnels and stainless steel grab rails around the dodger and deck. The boat is rigged with a deck-stepped aluminum mast, cathedral rigging with double swept-back spreaders, and split shrouds, facilitating a seamless transition from helm stations to side decks without climbing over obstacles. The twin helm stations are equipped with Raymarine displays, windlass controls, and electric Harken winch controls, enabling single-handed sailing. The cockpit excels in comfort with cushioned seats that wrap around the coaming to provide ergonomic support when heeled, and the coaming itself converts to flat sun pads with additional cushions, enhancing relaxation and entertainment space. The cockpit table opens fully, revealing compartments for an electric cooler and beverage storage. An electric swim platform with a 3 foot 6 inch ladder enhances boarding and swimming access. The bow houses a quick windlass and Lumar plow anchor, with storage lockers for ground tackle and sails, the latter optionally convertible to crew quarters.
Interior Living Spaces
Accessed via a companionway with four angled steps, the interior of the Sun Odyssey 490 is bright and spacious, featuring Alpi wood cabinetry with horizontal grain and rounded corners for safety and ease of movement. Natural light floods the salon through multiple overhead hatches and portholes. The port side hosts a versatile navigation station with raised seating cushions to secure the navigator while underway; this area doubles as a breakfast nook or workstation. The main salon includes a dining area with a center table whose leafs fold down and convert into an additional berth with a filler cushion. A 40-inch television is mounted on the forward bulkhead for entertainment. The C-shaped galley is centrally located at the boat’s center of gravity and equipped with two deep stainless steel sinks, a top-loading refrigerator accessible from above, a gimballed three-burner stove with oven, a pop-up microwave, freezer beneath the counter, and discreet storage for trash, glassware, silverware, and a wine locker.
Private Accommodations
The Sun Odyssey 490 offers flexible accommodation layouts with options ranging from two to five staterooms, all featuring en suite heads. Our test boat included an aft port stateroom illuminated by three portholes, which can alternatively be configured as a workshop or storage space accessible from the cockpit. The starboard cabin includes a private entrance to the dayhead, which features a stand-up shower. The master stateroom is located forward with a centrally positioned berth measuring 79 inches by 64 inches. This space benefits from ample natural light through windows and overhead hatches, recessed lighting, and well-designed storage cabinets on both sides. The master also includes an enclosed water closet on the port side and a separate enclosed shower stall on the centerline with 6 feet 6 inches of headroom, enhancing privacy and comfort.
Power and Performance
Powered by an 80 horsepower Yanmar sail drive engine, the Sun Odyssey 490 demonstrated reliable motoring capabilities, easily reaching speeds over 6 knots. Under sail, with a 118% jib and roller furling mainsail fully deployed, the boat performed impressively in 14 to 16 knot winds and moderate seas. Recorded speeds ranged from 7 knots close-hauled to over 8 knots on a beam reach. The hull’s form stability, aided by a waterline beam and twin spade rudders, provided responsive helm control and a dry, comfortable ride with minimal deck wash. The high boom clearance of over 7 feet enhances safety during tacks. The rigging setup, inspired by racing sailboats, supports high performance with swept-back spreaders and split shrouds, while the deck layout allows efficient sail handling with all lines led back to the twin helm stations.
Conclusion
The Sun Odyssey 490 builds upon the successful innovations of its predecessor, the 440, offering a well-balanced combination of performance, comfort, and practical design. Its thoughtful deck layout, spacious and bright interior, flexible accommodation options, and ease of handling make it suitable for both short-handed sailing and extended cruising. Features such as power-assisted winches, roller furling sails, and an autopilot enhance single-handed operation, while the comfortable cockpit and swim platform add to onboard enjoyment. Overall, the Sun Odyssey 490 is a compelling addition to Jeanneau’s Walkaround series, appealing to sailors seeking a versatile and capable cruiser.
Overview from around the web 1991 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey
Customers praise the 1991 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey for its solid construction and reliable performance, highlighting its comfortable and spacious interior that makes extended cruising enjoyable
Many appreciate the boat's balanced sailing characteristics, noting its ease of handling both for experienced sailors and those newer to cruising. The thoughtful layout and ample storage contribute to a practical onboard experience, while the classic design maintains a timeless appeal. Overall, owners value the 1991 Sun Odyssey as a dependable and versatile cruiser suitable for a variety of sailing adventures.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1991 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey offers a blend of classic design and reliable performance, making it a popular choice among cruising sailors. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Solid Construction: Built with quality materials and craftsmanship typical of Jeanneau, ensuring durability and longevity.
Comfortable Interior: Spacious layout with ample natural light, providing a comfortable living space for extended cruising.
Good Sailing Performance: Balanced sail plan and hull design offer stable and responsive handling, suitable for both coastal and offshore sailing.
Generous Storage: Well-thought-out storage solutions make it practical for longer voyages.
Easy Handling: Designed for ease of handling with manageable sail controls, ideal for short-handed crews or family sailing.
Cons
Older Design: As a 1991 model, some design elements and onboard systems may feel dated compared to modern sailboats.
Maintenance Needs: Older boats often require more upkeep, including potential updates to rigging, electronics, and interior fittings.
Limited Tank Capacities: Fuel and water tank sizes may be smaller than newer models, potentially limiting range without frequent resupply.
Performance Limitations: While balanced, it may not match the speed or agility of more contemporary performance cruisers.
Interior Wear: Depending on previous care, upholstery and woodwork might show signs of aging, necessitating refurbishment.
Made For
The 1991 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey is ideal for sailing enthusiasts seeking a versatile and reliable cruiser. It suits families and couples looking for comfortable coastal cruising, as well as sailors interested in weekend getaways or longer voyages. With its spacious interior and solid performance, this boat appeals to those who value a blend of comfort, ease of handling, and seaworthiness in a well-established design.
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Stuart, FL
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