The previous model, the Sun Odyssey 380, was launched for the 2022 season. In the YACHT test, Marc Lombard’s design impressed with its balanced sailing characteristics, good performance close to the wind, a wide range of features and the walk-around cockpit typical of Jeanneau. However, the design also involves a compromise: the gunwales, which are lowered at the sides, take up space and thus restrict the room for manoeuvre behind the two steering wheels.
Wider stern, more space for the helmsman
This is precisely where Jeanneau has focused its redesign efforts. For the new Sun Odyssey 385, the designers have modified the hull shape at the stern. The maximum beam is extended further aft, meaning the seating areas at the helm stations are around eight centimetres wider. At the same time, the freeboards at the stern are now slightly concave in shape, as is the case with the larger Sun Odyssey 415 and 455 models. This not only gives the stern a more distinctive and modern appearance, but, above all, creates more freedom of movement for the helmsman. The walk-around cockpit, of course, remains a characteristic feature of the series and is retained for the new boat. The side gangways continue to lead from the cockpit to the foredeck without any steps.
Tried-and-tested deck layout, larger rig
There are few changes to the basic deck layout. The areas for steering and sail handling are concentrated aft, whilst the forward part of the cockpit is reserved for the crew. High backrests are designed to provide secure support whilst sailing and to improve seating comfort when at anchor. The rig continues to do without an aftstay. This keeps the passageways around the helm stations and towards the bow clear.
Jeanneau and Marc Lombard Yacht Design have also revised the sail plan. The mast will be extended by more than 25 centimetres compared with the Sun Odyssey 380, whilst the area of the mainsail will increase by over two square metres. An overlapping genoa is still planned as the headsail. The shipyard offers a self-tacking jib as an option.
The swivel keel option remains available
The Sun Odyssey 385 also offers a wide range of keel options. For the fixed-keel versions, a standard keel (2.00 metres) and a short keel (1.56 metres) are available. In addition, the swing keel, already familiar from the Sun Odyssey 380, remains part of the range. This allows the draught to be significantly reduced via a hydraulic system from a maximum of 2.70 metres to just 1.29 metres. In combination with the two rudder blades, the boat can also run aground when fitted with the swivel keel and additional mud supports.
Four layout options below deck
Below deck, the basic layout concept of the previous model is also retained. Versions are available with two or three double cabins and one wet room. A second wet room can be fitted in the foredeck as an option. In the two-cabin version, a large storage locker replaces the second aft cabin. A larger bathroom with a separate shower area is also available for this variant. This results in a total of four different layout options. The layouts are shown in the gallery above.
Jeanneau has rearranged the seating area on the starboard side of the saloon. Two seating areas facing each other frame a central piece of furniture. Depending on requirements, this can be used as a small coffee table, a storage table or a navigation table. Two people can sit at the chart table from either side. Rounded corners on the furniture, an unobstructed passage through the saloon and handrails extending all the way to the foredeck are designed to make moving about below deck easier. A special feature: in the foredeck, the almost rectangular double berth is built at an angle into the space. This layout makes it easier to access the sleeping area and allows for a second, reasonably sized wet room to be fitted in the foredeck.
Premiere in Düsseldorf in 2027
The first vessel of the new Sun Odyssey 385 class is apparently under construction. The first boat is expected to be available as early as November for initial trials. At the product launch in Cannes, the shipyard will also announce an initial price range for the market launch. In any case, the base price is set to remain below the 200,000-euro mark. For its debut in January 2027 at the boot trade fair in Düsseldorf, the boat is to be offered at a base price of 199,900 euros net, including the sails. The gross price, including 19 per cent VAT, is therefore 237,880 euros.
Technical Specifications: Sun Odyssey 385
- Designer: Marc Lombard Yacht Design
- Interior design: Piaton Yacht Design
- Fuselage length: 10.77 m
- Overall length including bowsprit: 11.77 m
- Length at the waterline: 10.71 m
- Width: 3.76 m
- Standard draught (deep keel): 2.00 m
- Draught (short keel, optional): 1.56 m
- Draughts with swivel keel: 1.29 – 2.70 m
- Weight: 6.9 t
- Ballast/ballast ratio, standard deep keel: 1.8 t/26 per cent
- Mast height above the waterline: 16.60 m
- Mainsail: 35.1 m²
- Furling genoa (110 per cent): 28.0 m²
- Engine: Yanmar in-line diesel, 29 kW/40 PS, shaft drive
- Fuel capacity: 130 litres
- Fresh water capacity: 330 litres
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Michael Good
Editor Test & Technology