French manufacturer Jeanneau’s Prestige line attracts buyers who have an appreciation for luxury and European design. Last year, the smallest model in their Express line, the Prestige 390 S, dazzled us with its good value for money. That said, however, it’s still beyond the means of most mortals. But if you like that kind of boat, the Jeanneau Leader 10 could prove an interesting alternative. It’s smaller and features several Prestige components, which explains why its price is more modest. Consider it a good compromise.
Practical hardtop
Designed in Europe, the Leader 10 is beautifully simple, with clean, classic lines. In fact, many of its style cues are now being borrowed by American boat makers. Its long side windows stretch toward the front for a more dynamic look. Plus, the Leader 10 comes with a hardtop, ensuring maximum comfort on board, regardless of the outdoor temperature. When it’s nice out, one push of a button will retract the front part of the roof, so you can bask under the sun’s rays. Hardtops are increasingly popular, as they offer a no-fuss advantage compared to their canvas-top counterparts. Not to mention the fact that a sturdy cover also protects the interior from the elements, thereby minimizing maintenance work. And finally, there’s the simple fact that hardtops tend to look sleeker.
The front deck is spacious enough, and passengers are sure to enjoy the sunpad’s big, comfy cushion. Although it’s just available on option, it’s essential if you want to make the most of the deck.
Focus on a spacious interior
The Leader 10 is Jeanneau’s biggest model, at 36 feet (10.85 metres) long and 12 feet (3.73 metres) wide. That’s a pretty sizeable boat. There’s a swim platform at back, but it’s not among the biggest out there. While some boats are designed to maximize the swim platform space, this one has put the priority on interior space. The inside deck offers a long, open, single-level expanse. This makes it easier to move about the boat and gives you the impression that it’s very vast indeed. Behind the driver is a U-shaped bench suitable for meals or just plain relaxation. Port-side, a lounge chair faces the rear of the boat. Options include hardwood floors and a solid wood table for enhanced style. Thanks to all the windows, the interior is very bright and offers excellent views. You definitely don’t feel like you’re holed up inside.
Up front, the captain is treated to a double bench, which means someone can always keep you company as you drive. The dashboard is sober, but elegant. Its layout is intelligent, as all buttons are easy to access and understand. The sport steering wheel is another nice touch.
The lower deck features a fully functional kitchenette. Outstanding fit, finish and materials create a high-end esthetic. This is enhanced by the skylights and long window panes. In fact, the entire boat gets good lighting and views of the outside. In sum, the Leader 10 offers everything you need for an enjoyable experience: a kitchenette, meal space, complete bathroom and two staterooms.
Sport handling, reasonable fuel economy
The Leader comes with several engine options. Given its very competitive base price (compared to several of its rivals), it comes standard with twin 5.7 Volvo Penta gas engines that produce 280 hp each. But for improved efficiency, you’re better off with one of the two diesel options. The model I tested came with the most powerful of them all: two Volvo Penta D4 diesel engines, each of which produce 260 hp and are paired with Duoprop twin-propeller drives. Add joystick manoeuvring to the equation and you’ve got a very efficient system, indeed!
Out on the water, you will love the simplicity of the instrumentation. All the controls are easy to find and understand. Throw open the throttle and the boat takes off like a shark (7.5 seconds on our test model). We reached a maximum speed of 43.5 mph (70 km/h) at 3,500 rpm, which is more than respectable for a boat of this size. This is thanks in part to the Leader 10’s light construction. Ideal cruising speed is around 2,500 rpm, which translates into 27.2 mph (44 km/h) and fuel consumption of 16.3 gallons per hour (61.7 L/h). This is when you start to realize that the diesel engines are well worth it. The 260-hp D4 engines are definitely the better choice for this model. They offer a good amount of power and better flexibility. But you do have to put up with that typical diesel-engine sound…
A true express cruiser, the Leader 10 is both dynamic and pleasant to drive. It may not be a high-performance model, but it’s agile nonetheless. And since it’s so big, there’s no need to fear rough, open water.
Although the hardtop offers several advantages, it also has a downside. Even though the boat features impressive front and side windows, the pillars are quite wide, reducing visibility (especially ¾ front visibility). This means you have to stay particularly alert in tight spaces or when docking. In the boating world, it seems as though you always have to compromise on something.
Overall, I liked the Leader 10 for its ease of use, great style and ergonomics. This boat lives up to all reasonable expectations for an express cruiser – especially when you consider its value for price.
Review boat provided by: Groupe Performance Marine