The Oyster 82 Sailboat
Specs & Key Performance Indicators

The Oyster 82, a centre-cockpit cutter, was designed by Rob Humphreys and built in the UK by Oyster Marine Ltd.

An Oyster 82 Cutter

Published Specification for the Oyster 82

Underwater Profile: Fin keel & spade rudder
Hull Material: GRP (Fibreglass)
Length Overall: 81'10" (25.0m)
Waterline Length: 70'6" (21.5m)
Beam: 20'9" (6.3m)
Draft: 8'10" (2.7m)*
Rig Type: Cutter
Displacement: 134,481lb (61,001kg)
Designer: Rob Humphreys
Builder: Oyster Marine (UK)
Year First Built: 2007
Owners Association: Oyster Owners Association

* Other available keel configurations:

Shoal draft high performance bulb keel - 8'4" (2.6m)
Centreboard version with twin rudders - Board up 7'0" (2.1m), Board down 14'0" (4.3m)

Published Design Ratios for the Oyster 82

1. Sail Area/Displacement Ratio: 23.6

2. Ballast/Displacement Ratio: Not published

3. Displacement/Length Ratio: 171

4. Comfort Ratio: 49.6

5. Capsize Screening Formula: 1.6

Summary Analysis of the Design Ratios for the Oyster 82

Based on these design ratios, we can provide some insights into the Oyster 82 sailboat's performance:

1. Sail Area / Displacement Ratio (SA/D): The SA/D at 23.6 indicates that the Oyster 82 is a moderate sailboat that's likely to feature a satisfactory sailing performance. The sail area to displacement ratio gives an idea of the boat’s potential speed. A higher ratio implies more sail area, which usually leads to more speed, especially in light winds. However, these types of boats may be a bit harder to handle for novice sailors - not that you'd expect a novice to be helming an Oyster 82!

2. Ballast / Displacement Ratio: Unfortunately, this ratio is not available. However, this figure usually provides an understanding of the boat's stability. Higher values typically indicate better stiffness and stability, particularly when under wind pressure.

3. Displacement / Length Ratio (D/L): With a D/L ratio of 171, this represents a moderate displacement yacht which means the Oyster 82 should offer a good compromise between sailing performance and onboard comfort. It characterizes the boat's speed potential; lower values usually mean higher speed and the boat being lighter.

4. Comfort Ratio (CR): A comfort ratio of 49.6 is relatively high, indicating that the Oyster 82 prioritizes comfort and stability over speed. The comfort ratio is a measure of the motion comfort of the boat; a higher number suggests a better sea motion.

5. Capsize Screening Formula (CSF): The CSF of 1.6 falls within the accepted range of below 2.0, suggesting the boat has a good safety level in potential capsizing conditions. The capsize screening formula is a measure of the boat’s resistance to capsizing; a lower number implies a boat that is less prone to capsize.

In conclusion, based on these design ratios, the Oyster 82 is a moderately fast and stable sailboat, prioritizing onboard comfort, while still maintaining a good speed potential and a high safety level in potential capsizing situations.

The Oyster 82: An Overview

The Oyster 82 is a premium, luxury, blue-water cruising yacht renowned for its perfect blend of comfort, performance and style. This particular model, developed by the celebrated yacht maker, Oyster Marine, is a centerpiece in their line of sailing vessels, standing out with it's precise design and impeccable craftsmanship.

Measuring about 82 feet in length, the Oyster 82 offers plenty of space for relaxation and entertainment. The exterior profile is stylish and streamlined, all while maintaining high standards of functionality. The deck layout is designed for easy handling, even with a small crew. It features a split cockpit for dining, entertaining or sunbathing, and for navigating and controlling the yacht.

Inside, the Oyster 82 offers luxurious guest cabins, typically featuring a master suite and several twin or double cabins, all of them equipped with private bath facilities. The interior design exhibits a perfect marriage of form and function, displaying high-gloss finished woodwork and plush fabrics for a comfortable and lavish living area.

In terms of performance, the Oyster 82 is indeed a powerhouse. It sails impressively, even under tough sea conditions. Based on the analyzed design ratios, the sailboat is robust, moderately fast, prioritizes onboard comfort and features good safety levels in capsize conditions. The sailing experience is smooth and stable, making long voyages comfortable and enjoyable for every guest onboard.

Owning an Oyster 82 promises an incomparable and luxurious sailing experience, offering the freedom and thrill of blue-water cruising without sacrificing the comfort and opulence of a high-end yacht. It is indeed a vessel designed to deliver an extraordinary level of elegance on the sea.

I wrote this article using GPT-4, OpenAI’s large-scale language-generation model, as a research assistant to develop source material. I wrote the final draft in its entirety and believe it to be accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Dick McClary, creator and owner of sailboat-cruising.com