A 2012 Beneteau Oceanis 58 designed for proper cruising
When the Oceanis 58 was introduced at the 2010 Sydney International Boat Show, it sat at the top of Beneteau’s cruising range. Designed by Berret Racoupeau with interiors by Nauta Design, it was built to offer volume and comfort without losing the ability to sail properly offshore.
That balance still defines Laissez Faire today.
She is a large yacht, but she does not feel overwhelming. The deck layout is logical. The cockpit is organised. The systems are specified with distance cruising in mind. For owners planning extended time aboard, those fundamentals probably come first. But step inside and it is clear the styling has not been treated as an afterthought.
A cockpit that works under sail and at anchor
Laissez Faire‘s cockpit is centred around the mainsheet arch, which keeps the traveller clear of the seating area. It is a practical solution. Under sail, it keeps control lines organised. At anchor, it opens up the space.
Twin helms with Simrad electronics provide clear sightlines and easy access to controls. Electric winches and in-boom furling take the strain out of sail handling. Add the self tacking staysail and she becomes genuinely manageable for a couple.
The bow thruster makes close quarters handling straightforward. For many owners, that means less stress entering tight marinas or crosswind berths.
Forward and along the side decks, movement is secure and uncluttered. This is a yacht intended to be used, not just admired from the dock.
The stern and how it changes daily life aboard
The wide sugar scoop stern is one of the Oceanis 58’s defining features.
In practical terms, it simplifies boarding from a tender and gives swimmers easy access to the water. It is equally useful when handling dive gear or fishing lines.
In everyday use, it becomes a natural gathering space. At anchor, it is where people sit with a drink, watch the children swim, or prepare a tender for a run ashore. It expands the usable area of the yacht without adding complication.
For New Zealand cruising, where time at anchor is as important as time under sail, that design choice makes sense.
A saloon built for living aboard
Below deck, the sense of space is immediate. The saloon is bright and open, finished in warm mahogany with LED lighting throughout. Electric blinds allow light and privacy to be managed easily.
The dining table comfortably seats a full group. The lounge seating encourages people to settle in rather than perch. A pop up television and drinks cabinet add convenience without dominating the space.
Opposite, the navigation desk is properly sized. Offshore planning and system monitoring can be done without compromising comfort in the saloon.
The galley is well specified. With 24V refrigeration, freezer, icebox and an additional drinks fridge, provisioning for longer passages is realistic. A washing machine adds practicality for extended cruising.
Accommodation that suits families and guests
Laissez Faire features a three cabin layout. The forward master suite includes an island berth and generous storage. It feels private and usable rather than simply spacious on paper.
The two aft cabins benefit from water view windows, which make a noticeable difference to light and ventilation. Each cabin has access to proper bathroom facilities with separate showers.
In addition, you will find a separate bow cabin with its own head, suitable for crew or teenagers. The layout works well for families, visiting friends or couples cruising together.
Proper offshore systems
Beyond comfort, the systems on board reflect serious cruising intent.
Watermaker, generator, solar, air conditioning, heating, extensive refrigeration and safety equipment are already in place. Tankage and storage are generous. This is a yacht set up to operate independently for extended periods.
The 140HP Volkswagen TDI engine runs smoothly and is supported by twin alternators. Electrical capacity matches the onboard equipment.
For owners considering Pacific cruising or long coastal passages, this level of preparation reduces the need for immediate upgrades.
Under sail
You would not line up for line honours in the PIC Coastal Classic aboard Laissez Faire. Her strength lies in relaxed, capable distance cruising, the sort of platform that lends itself naturally to a Pacific Islands passage.
Electric winches ease heavy loads. The self tacking staysail adds flexibility in changing conditions. The mainsheet arch keeps the cockpit clear. With the right trim, she settles into a steady cruising rhythm.
Helm visibility is good from either station. Controls are within reach. For owners who enjoy sailing as much as anchoring, she offers enough engagement without excessive workload.
Condition and care
Laissez Faire has benefited from consistent maintenance and a number of recent upgrades. She presents in excellent condition, which is important in a yacht of this size and complexity.
Care and stewardship show through in how a yacht feels aboard. This one reflects that attention.
A considered lifestyle choice
This 2012 Beneteau Oceanis 58 appeals to owners who want more than a weekend platform. Laissez Faire offers real offshore capability, generous living space and systems that support extended cruising.
For those interested in learning more about Laissez Faire, including full specifications and viewing arrangements, Ron Mossman at South Pacific Boat Sales can provide further details.
Learn more about Laissez Faire
Walkthrough video
Bluewater adventures onboard Laissez Faire
Ron Mossman
+64 27 296 0065
ron@spboatsales.co.nz
