Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 319

Good things come in small packages. Jeanneau’s new entry-level design is the Sun Odyssey 319, and she’s small but mighty. The French builder wanted to re-enter the small boat market, and the 319 joins two other models in the 30ft Sun Odyssey range. This way, Jeanneau has a boat for new sailors with families as well as old salts wanting to downsize.

It’s easy to build a large boat, but real thought must be put into a compact model. Available with two enclosed cabins and a full head, the 319 offers amenities similar to those of her larger sisters. Light pours in via the coachroof and hull portlights, and the ample headroom increases the sense of space. There’s a two-burner stove, refrigeration and a fold-out table that will seat six for dinner. The master stateroom is a V-berth forward with divided double doors. With these doors open, there’s a perception of length and openness you don’t often find on vessels of this size.

The cockpit is large with more outside stowage options than most of the boat’s competitors. A single wheel, a rigid vang and an open transom that provides easy access to the water are standard. The side decks are nice and wide with toerails outboard, and there are study handrails atop the cabintrunk to make going forward a snap.

Outfitted with a fractional rig, a 21hp Yanmar with saildrive, twin rudders and a choice of standard or swing (lifting) keels, the 319 is a very capable cruiser. An optional sprit adds a place to attach a downwind sail on a top-down furler. Length-overall is actually 32ft, and she displaces just over 11,000lb, making her light and agile. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of 32 percent and a Category A rating, she’ll be comfortable in a wide range of conditions. jeanneauamerica.com