Opal Marine, the UK’s largest yacht distributor, has unveiled the first European specification Legend yachts to be built in Britain, along with the all-new Bavaria 44 and 47. Luhrs Marine new UK base in Portland is now fully operational and production of the new Legend 306, 326 and 356 is well underway.

Bilge keels have been identified as a popular specification for the north European market, and as a result, the slick production lines are turning out yachts with the twin, Bilge-keel option. Remarkably, tests have shown that the bilge keel Legends have a very similar performance to the conventional fin keels, and in some conditions, the bilge keels can outperform their single-legged counterparts.

As with all Legends, the decks are clean and simple with the emphasis on short-handed sailing and safety. Cockpits are deep, spacious, and secure with good seating areas and lines led aft. The B and R masthead rigs incorporate mast struts and a high boom.

Down below, the Legend 356 is light and spacious. The two-cabin layout offers plenty of accommodation and storage for a family, with an extra berth in the saloon for the odd guest.

Value for money is the key to Legend’s popularity. Their boats are well finished with care and thought for details and practicality. At a Boat Show price of £54,800 plus VAT, stand F9 is well-worth a visit.

Also on the Opal stand is the new Bavaria 47. Just £106,000 plus VAT buys you a blue water cruiser that sleeps ten, is sturdy, comfortable and appeals to those serious yachtsmen with the ambition but not necessarily with the trust fund to support it.

As comfortable above deck as it is below, the construction of the boat and rig should weather many a stormy passage, delivering you quickly and safely wherever your destination may lie.