Jeanneau’s newest swift, stylish performance cruiser, the Leader 12.5, is a collaboration between noted designers Michael Peters and Patrice Sarrazin, and Jeanneau’s Design Team.
Triple Yamaha 300 hp outboards push the boat to 50 mph, and it’s stable and tight in turns. The Leader 12.5 is available with a Seakeeper stabilizing gyro, genset and bow thruster. In addition, Yamaha offers the exclusive Helm Master EX full-maneuverability system with autopilot and joystick steering.
Cockpit seating includes wraparound lounge seating and a cocktail table. An entertainment island separates the helm deck from the cockpit and provides a refrigerator, sink, grill, and you can opt for a second refrigerator or an ice maker. A TV drops down from the hardtop, and that durable structure is supported by handsome stainless-steel struts. Cool the cockpit by deploying the retractable shade. Sturdy bow rails offer safe passage to the windlass and the triple bow lounge.
The Jeanneau’s Design Team always impresses most with its capability to demand and get maximum utility from every square inch of space. In that vein, the boatbuilder has added a portside fold-down veranda that extends 3 feet outward over the water at the touch of a button. Additionally, Jeanneau has provided a starboard boarding door to the cockpit and kept the transom entry as another option.
In the cabin below, we found a wide, deep forward V-berth that converts from a dinette area with a hardwood table. Drop it down and shift the cushions to make for a comfortable night’s sleep. To make it even more comfortable and cozy, the two berths can be joined into one. Because the 12.5′s propulsion is outboard instead of inboard, there’s a spacious aft cabin with a double and single berth. Sidelights keep it cheery, as does the recessed lighting overhead. A galley to port complements the one on deck, and the head compartment provides a sink, head and—behind an acrylic door—a shower.
Comfort, speed and room for a crew to spread out were Jeanneau’s goals with the Leader 12.5, and it didn’t miss the mark.
High Points
- Available with Yamaha Helm Master EX full-maneuverability system with autopilot and joystick.
- Color-matched hardtop, hull sides and helm console.
- Fusion Audio system with multizone control above- and belowdecks.
Specs
LOA: 40′3″
Beam: 11′9″
Draft (max): 2′8″
Dry Weight: 17,999 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity: 12/8,531 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 304 gal.
Price: $403,180 (starting)
How We Tested
Engines: Triple Yamaha F300 V-6 four-stroke
Drive/Props: Outboard/15 1/2″ x 17″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.75:1
Fuel Load: 150 gal.
Crew Weight: 450 lb.
More Information
Jeanneau – Annapolis, Maryland; 410-280-9400; jeanneauamerica.com
