Oyster Yachts is introducing the Oyster 515, the next generation of its 50-foot range. The new yacht builds on the strengths of the award-winning Oyster 495, whilst offering significantly more volume, a larger sail area and a completely redesigned deck layout. The 515 was developed in collaboration with Humphreys Yacht Design and Oyster’s in-house design studio. At the heart of this development is the aft section, which, with its beach club-inspired design, is intended to create a new dimension to life on board. The yacht is aimed at owners planning both Mediterranean cruising and long-distance voyages around the world. Stefan Zimmermann Zschocke, CEO of Oyster Yachts, explains: “The Oyster 515 builds on the success of the Oyster 495 and everything we have learnt from more than 50 years’ experience in building bluewater yachts.”
Completely redesigned stern area
The most striking new feature of the Oyster 515 is to be found at the stern. The completely redesigned aft deck combines aft-facing seating with a sunken lounge and an enlarged, fold-down superyacht-style swim platform. According to the manufacturer, this area is designed for relaxation, socialising and swimming whilst at anchor. The design creates a genuine living space right on the water’s edge. Enlarged storage compartments provide space for water toys and cruising equipment. Owners can choose between an integrated tender garage or conventional davits to configure the yacht according to their usage habits. The intelligent use of space ensures there is sufficient storage for longer voyages despite the additional features, says Oster.
More light and space below deck
Below deck, the Oyster 515 benefits from increased volume for long-haul cruising. The enlarged Seascape windows, a signature Oyster design feature, flood the interior with natural light. The deck saloon and the full-width owner’s cabin aft offer comfort and practicality. The three-cabin layout provides space and privacy normally expected on significantly larger yachts, according to the manufacturer. The layout allows couples or families to live comfortably on board for extended periods. The owner’s cabin spans the full width of the hull, making maximum use of the available space.
Sailing characteristics and handling
The manufacturer emphasises that, under sail, the 515 remains a typical Oyster. A revised sail plan with increased sail area, twin rudders and electric sail-handling systems are designed to deliver responsive handling that a couple or a family can manage even without additional crew. New wing seats next to the helm stations offer the ideal vantage point whilst sailing. The optional flat keel opens up access to shallower and more remote cruising areas that are inaccessible to yachts with a deeper draught. Every detail reflects Oyster’s commitment to safety, durability and confidence on the water, according to the manufacturer. The yacht is both suited to Mediterranean cruising and equipped to take owners anywhere in the world.
Oyster talks of a growth trajectory
The launch of the Oyster 515 marks the start of the next generation of Oyster Bluewater Sailing and is the first step in a programme of product and innovation launches that will unfold over the coming months, explains CEO Zimmermann Zschocke. The announcement follows a period of strong momentum for Oyster Yachts. Earlier this year, Oyster Brokerage completed the sale of two Oyster 885s within a single week, reflecting the sustained demand for the brand’s flagship bluewater yachts. Oyster continues to invest in its global service network and has acquired its own berth at the service centre in Barcelona to strengthen support for owners in the Mediterranean.
Anniversary Regatta and World Rally receive a positive response
In September, owners from all over the world will gather in Palma de Mallorca for the 50th Oyster Regatta, which celebrates five decades of adventure, exploration and community. The 2026–27 Oyster World Rally is currently crossing the South Pacific. The high demand for the 2030–31 edition reflects the enduring appeal of supported bluewater adventures, the manufacturer says. Oyster Yachts is a British sailing yacht manufacturer with a reputation for building the world’s finest bluewater yachts, which have been developed and refined over 50 years. Every Oyster is handcrafted in the United Kingdom, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern production technology. Oyster yachts have clocked up over 20 million bluewater nautical miles and completed more than 100 circumnavigations of the globe.
Technical Specifications: Oyster 515
| Total length | 16.48 m |
| Fuselage length | 15.68 m |
| Waterline length | 14.41 m |
| Width | 4.77 m |
| Displacement (standard keel) | 23.6 t |
| Draught (standard keel) | 2.37 m |
| Draught (optional shallow keel) | 1.91 m |
| Engine | Yanmar 4JH110 |
| Fuel tank capacity – Fuel | 800 litres |
| Tank capacity – fresh water | 600 litres |
| Sail area – furling mainsail | 123 m² |
| Sail area – Fully battened mainsail | 132 m² |
| Mast height above water (excluding antennas) | 23.8 m |
More on the subject of Oyster
- Oyster World Rally 2026–27: A fleet adventure around the world
- Oyster World Rally: “We want to take our time exploring the world”
- Oyster World Rally: 22 Oyster yachts are sailing round the world as part of a flotilla
- Planning a round-the-world sailing trip: an introduction to the three main rallies
- New yachts: Oyster 495 – the dream boat for aspiring long-distance sailors
- Oyster Yachts appoints new CEO
Fridtjof Gunkel
Deputy Chief Editor YACHT
