Steel displacement vessels have a reputation for classic shapes and traditional interior design. The latter has already shifted in a fresher direction at some of the renowned shipyards. When it comes to deck superstructures, however, the new ideas are still rather hesitant.
The Jetten 50 MPC is different: an absolutely new, fresh design has had a lasting effect on the entire boat. Particularly striking: the orange colour of the hull, which makes the Jetten an absolute eye-catcher. The cockpit has a modern ambience as soon as you step on board. The large, comfortable U-shaped seating area is located under skylights, the centre one of which can be opened. Huge skylights can also be found in the saloon. A Waeco sliding roof provides fresh air and direct contact with the sun. From the cosy seating area, which is perfect for five people (if there are more, you have to move to the cockpit), the carpool also has a fantastic panoramic view. If, on the other hand, you want more discretion and protection from the sun, simply pull up the blinds and curtains. The smutje is also in the centre of the action, as the modern galley is located on the port side in the entrance area. The advantage of this arrangement is that the galley can be accessed directly from the cockpit without the need for a wet bar.
The owner can choose between a three- or four-cabin version (charter operation). We travelled with the four-cabin version and the following layout: double berth in the bow, double berth in the lower cabin (port) and bunk beds on the starboard side. Between the bow and the lower cabin there is an office space with a writing desk and a folding bunk bed. Owners who are more concerned about their well-being can order the version with three cabins and get a large suite in the centre of the boat. In our version, the shipyard has installed a separate shower in the bow on the port side and a toilet room with toilet (electric) and washbasin opposite. Both rooms have attractive dimensions. For the underfloor cabins, the designer has integrated a bathroom with toilet, washbasin and medium-sized shower cubicle at the companionway.
Plus, minus: The room is easy to access from the cabins, but awkward on the entrance side as the corridor door knocks against the bathroom door. There are also pros and cons with the bunks: the double bunks have slatted frames under the mattresses, whereas the other bunks do not. Anyone who thinks that's all there is to the cabins is mistaken, as there is a crew cabin aft at the entrance to the engine compartment.
Most owners will probably still drive and moor the Jetten themselves. The bow and stern thrusters are extremely effective in helping to do the latter comfortably and safely. The driver sits on a comfortable double bench which, however, cannot be moved. This means that he cannot lean backwards when operating the steering wheel and single-lever control. The instruments (monitors) can be read without restriction in all situations, but the white console is reflected in the windscreen, which limits visibility. To prevent rain and splash water from becoming a nuisance, the shipyard has installed three solid windscreen wipers.
With the classification in category A, Jetten allows deep-sea sailing. However, due to the protected test area (Sneekermeer), we cannot say anything objective about the rough water characteristics. The range is different: at a cruising speed of almost 8 knots, the Jetten manages a respectable 1000 nm plus 15% reserve on one tank of fuel. Full-throttle pilots travelling at just under 10 knots can still cover over 500 nm and at canal speeds of around 4 knots even over 3000 nm. For safety reasons, those who want to go on long trips regularly will choose a twin engine, which then noticeably reduces the range.
With the exception of a few swerves, our single-engine version travels in a straight line. In fast bends, the Jetten first leans briefly on the inside and then moderately on the outside. The steering is not too light and not too heavy.
The engine compartment is located behind an easy-to-open bulkhead door, is tidy, well ventilated and, in the single-engine version, has plenty of room for handling. To ensure the safest possible operation, the shipyard installs a double fuel filter system. In the event of fire, a fire extinguishing system ensures safety. Three electric bilge pumps and three hand bilge pumps are also a high standard.
When it comes to safe movement, non-slip floor structures and easy-grip railings and handrails are on the plus side. The bathing platform can be lowered at the touch of a button to make it easy to get out of the water. Important: If you forget to do this before jumping into the cool water, there is an emergency step as standard to get back on deck. If you want to bathe in the sun, you can lie down on the huge
cushioned area on the foredeck.
There is a 5 kW heater for cold days. To keep the heat inside the boat, the shipyard insulates the hull just as carefully as the entire boat. This is confirmed not least by the sturdy railing, cleats and rubbing strake.
CONCLUSION: The Jetten 50 has a really fresh design that conveys a modern lifestyle and therefore also appeals to younger generations. Private owners are more likely to order the three-cabin version in order to enjoy the boat's high level of comfort. The sailing characteristics, quality and safety equipment present a good picture.
Shipyard: Jetten Yachting
Type designation: Jetten 50 MPC
CE category: A - High seas
Material of hull and deck: Steel
Length: 14,99 m
Width: 4,80 m
Displacement: 28,00 t
Price: 591.760,00 €