2007 Beneteau Oceanis 523

Topdeck:

The 523’s appearance benefits from its low-slung coachroof. The cockpit is both functional and comfortable. Dual helm stations are separated from the cockpit by molded-in steering pods that allow the helmsman to have a comfortable seat, access to all controls, and excellent visibility on either tack. Meanwhile, crew in the cockpit can stretch out on 6-foot-long teak-trimmed seats or have lunch at the sturdy teak cockpit table with fold-down leaves. The split helms provide easy access to the walk-through transom and swim platform below. The cockpit also contains several large lockers that can easily swallow dock lines and fenders.

Belowdecks:

Going down the companionway steps brings you into a bright, airy saloon that would be a perfect place to spend a rainy afternoon at anchor. The interior layout is noteworthy for the intelligent use of the available space. The linear galley running along the starboard side of the saloon offers considerable counter and stowage space. The forward-facing nav station at the base of the companionway steps has a good-size chart table and a comfortable contoured seat. The dining table is offset to port and has room for six to eat comfortably. The long, curved seat that runs along the outboard edge of the settee will make an excellent berth (on the starboard tack); a bench seat set amidships has fiddled counter space and a bank of drawers built into the backrest. This obviously provides good stowage for cutlery and the like and makes a sturdy brace point for moving around in the saloon.

There's an impressive master cabin forward. It has an ensuite head and a 6-foot, 6-inch-long walk-around double berth with a high-density foam mattress. The cabin is furnished with two large hanging lockers, several cabinets with vented doors, a dressing table, a bench seat, and two drawers under the berth. The two guest cabins aft are smaller but are equipped with a hanging locker, and each also has an ensuite head.