2016 Jeanneau 379

Below decks, this 379 feels bigger than her numbers suggest, with generous beam carried aft that opens up the galley and saloon. Light pours in from the long cabin windows and overhead hatches, so you never feel like you’re heading “down into” the boat. At the wheel, the twin rudders give reassuring grip when pressed, especially reaching in a breeze, and the deck layout keeps lines well organized so shorthanded sailing stays relaxed instead of frantic. The anchor locker and wide foredeck make setting the hook straightforward, and there’s enough storage in the cockpit lockers to swallow cruising gear, fenders, and water toys without cluttering up the seats.

In these waters, conditions can change quickly from light afternoon breezes to punchier evening gusts, and this model handles that range with ease. The hull shape and twin wheels deliver control and balance when the breeze pipes up, yet she’s easily driven in lighter air, so you’re not motoring when you’d rather be sailing. The roomy cockpit works well for both casual days with friends and longer hops along the coast, with shelter on cooler, breezier days thanks to full canvas. Shoal draft opens up more anchorages and quieter coves, letting you tuck in closer to shore where deeper-keel cruisers hesitate.