Just Breathe: Ocean Alexander’s 100

Getting Around: Minimal Intrusion, Maximum Access

Construction: Obsessing Over Excellence

Upper Helm: Command Performance

A north wind was honking around 25 knots outside. Inside at the marina, a fresh breeze pinned the [Ocean Alexander 100][] to the dock, sideways. I’ve seen larger yachts remain tied up in conditions like this, but not today. Capt. Steve Wegner effortlessly maneuvered the craft with the help of the 45-horsepower Side-Power bow thruster and twin 1,950-horsepower Caterpillar C32 ACERT diesel engines. The magnitude of this 100-footer was readily apparent.

Also quickly apparent was that this yacht is all about relaxation. Not only are the form and function conducive to reducing — nay, removing — tension and anxiety, but the 100 offers a classic approach to solving stress-inducing issues. Despite 3- to 5-foot seas and windy conditions, we remained dry on the open bridge deck. The OA100’s bow flare is subtle, but effective. Put the pointy end into the waves and the water parts ways, without the expected level of pitching. A rub rail doubles as a knockdown rail, and water is thrown away from the bow. Side-Power stabilizers eliminated the roll, enhancing the pleasure factor.

Despite the 3- to 5-foot seas and windy conditions, we remained dry on the open bridge deck. the OA 100’s bow flare is subtle, but effective.

Running the motors through a series of rpm intervals, I found the sweet spot for cruising around 18 to 20 knots. At 1,800 rpm, the OA100 does around 16.9 knots with the Cats burning 110 gallons per hour, total. I pushed the motors to 2,100 rpm, and they drank about 176 gph at 20.5 knots. This 229,000-pound vessel made 23-plus knots, which was an impressive velocity considering the lumpy sea state. Her 4,000-gallon fuel capacity gives her a best range of 1,100 nautical miles at 12.5 knots while the motors burn 34 gph, and considering a 25 percent reserve. She’s inviting in terms of livability too, thanks to designer Evan K. Marshall. On the covered aft deck, a U-shaped settee is flanked by a high-gloss wood table, accompanied by a starboard-side tiered wet bar (twin barstools are optional).

Inside, the open layout is striking with the salon’s large panoramic side windows and low-­profile furnishings. Salon seating is a U-shaped settee to port and twin barrel chairs with center wood coffee table. Forward is a formal dining table with service for eight. Dividing the salon from the dining area is a low credenza, which follows the height requirements of the dining chairs, starboard cabinetry and all furnishings; doesn’t impede the flow of ambient lighting; and keeps the view open.

Another feature of designed-in form and function is the galley. A U-shaped layout is typical, but add the aft bulkhead separated by a walkway aisle and a forward breakfast nook, and you’ve maximized the usage while minimizing required real estate. Along the aft bulkhead are the full-height, side-by-side Sub-Zero fridge and freezer next to a Thermador range and Viking microwave, all in their own cove next to the wine cooler. The chef can stand at the stove, cook the meal and rotate to plate the food, which is then whisked to the dining room. Service to the aft deck is via the portside door and down the full side deck, keeping the feeding operation out of the owner and guest space. Cleanup is just as easy thanks to acres of counter space, a ­Franke sink and Fisher & Paykel dishwasher drawers.

This 229,000-pound vessel made 23-plus knots, which was an impressive velocity considering the lumpy sea state.

Enjoy the morning cup of joe at the breakfast nook, complete with unimpeded vistas thanks to large windshields and side windows. Or nestle into the forward portside L-shaped dinette for a bite or to stretch out. This is also a great spot to unwind if the captain has to run the yacht from the lower helm, to starboard. Creating a compact helm allows for more usable interior space, especially since this station will be used only occasionally. It’s fully configured with Furuno electronics, controls and a floating display pod, and it’s finished in wood and Ultraleather so it blends in elegantly.

The OA100 has four staterooms belowdecks and carries the wood and stone finish throughout. Amidships is a full-beam (23-foot) master with hull-side windows, his and her heads with ­central shower, a 50-inch LCD TV, a king-size berth and walk-in closets. On either side of the forward companionway are guest staterooms with en suite heads and twin berths. The forepeak VIP has an en suite head and queen berth. All heads incorporate the builder’s proprietary Crystal Shower, with superior transparency crystal-clear glass doors.

Relaxation hits a high note on the flybridge. There’s the portside wet bar with fridge and freezer, built-in grill and five bar stools. Or just kick back on the U-shaped settee to starboard with table for lunch or alfresco dining under the stars. For those who played too much or not enough, a four-­person spa has enough jets to soothe any pain, pretty much anywhere. Stow the 15-foot tender or other water toys aft with the 2,500-pound Steelhead Marine hydraulic crane. Or opt for more lounge chairs.

Shade or sun, Ocean Alexander has you covered. Forward is a retractable shade built into the hardtop. Even with an open bridge, the shade is a cool option, especially for observing heavenly bodies. Farther aft are two fitted sun screens that attach to poles and extend from the hardtop for days that warrant outdoor lounging without burning up.

Because the OA100 was designed for private or charter use, crew quarters are aft, including rooms for the captain and a couple of crew.

If you try to measure the virtues of this yacht, there certainly will be too many to count. Just rely on the fact that in a hustle-and-bustle world, you can relax again, and the Ocean Alexander 100 will get you there.