Jeanneau Leader 12.5

French builder Jeanneau has long been associated with turning out boats that are versatile, seaworthy and fun to drive, and its new launch, the Leader 12.5, won’t dissuade the builder’s legions of fans from their loyalties.

This Swiss Army Knife of a boat can do everything you ask of it, from day trips to overnights, and do it with real sangfroid (as the French would say).

The Leader’s mastery of the seas is due in large part to her impeccable DNA. She is a product of a collaboration between Michael Peters Design, Sarrazin Design and Jeanneau’s own in-house staff, and the decades of combined experience in the marine world shines through in spades.

It all starts with the vessel’s hull. It’s a deep-V design with a fine entry, two lifting strakes, a spray-reducing chine that runs the full length of the bottom, and 21 degrees of deadrise at the transom. All of these characteristics combine to make the Jeanneau highly adept at slicing through chop, while also providing a stable, dry and comfortable ride regardless of the sea state.

And the boat’s main deck is well set up for enjoying that stable ride. A foredeck lounge area has triple, forward-facing chaise lounges complemented by additional seating at the tip of the bow. Meanwhile the cockpit has an L-shaped lounge that enjoys protection from the sun via a SureShade remote-controlled awning. A galley on the aft end of the console has a grill, refrigerator, countertop prep space and stowage for utensils.

At full speed the Jeanneau can hit 50 mph thanks to triple 300-hp Yamaha V6 outboards, while also cruising in the mid-30-mph range. That’s plenty of giddyup to get safely away from approaching weather, or just to get you to the sandbar ahead of everyone else. Regardless of how she is used, the Leader 12.5 will create new admirers wherever she may roam. 

DEALERS