Beneteau 50 Information, Review, Specs

The naval architecture of the Beneteau 50 was penned by the acclaimed Bruce Farr, known for his performance-oriented designs, while the interior layout and styling were the work of Armel Briand. This collaboration aimed to create a yacht that was not only elegant and high-performing but also inherently comfortable for long-distance cruising.

History and Design

The Beneteau 50's production run spanned nearly a decade, from 1995 to 2004, showcasing Beneteau's enduring commitment to fiberglass construction, a revolution they embraced in the 1960s to allow for more efficient production and broader market appeal. The builder’s ethos during this era, as reflected in the Beneteau 50, focused on creating well-built, thoughtfully designed yachts that could appeal to a wide range of sailors, blending performance with practical accommodations.

Bruce Farr's design philosophy for the Beneteau 50 emphasized ease and comfort for offshore sailing in style, making the yacht adaptable for various sailing activities, including its notable use in charter fleets. The design sought to offer performance and elegance at an affordable price point, providing a semi-custom feel with more choices than typical production boats. During its production, the Beneteau 50 was offered with variations, including a shoal draft fin with a bulb keel, providing a shallower draft option of 5.92 feet in addition to the standard 7.55 feet. Furthermore, the model was marketed under different names, such as MOORINGS 503, 504, 505, and STARDUST 505, depending on its specific layout, particularly for the charter market. Beneteau also produced a dedicated "owner's version," offering tailored interior configurations for private use.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau 50 is characterized by a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.48. While this places it just below the threshold often associated with exceptional light-air performance, it suggests a powerful rig well-suited for a cruising yacht of its size, offering satisfying speed across a range of wind conditions. With a ballast to displacement ratio of 0.325, the Beneteau 50 leans towards a moderate level of stiffness, implying that while she can stand up to a good breeze, reefing earlier might be prudent in heavier conditions to maintain comfort.

Her displacement to length ratio of approximately 305.24 clearly positions the Beneteau 50 as a heavier, more traditional cruiser rather than a lightweight performance machine. This robust build contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, a desirable trait for offshore passages. Anecdotal reviews and design intent confirm that the Beneteau 50 is a "spirited sailer" and "fun to sail," delivering on its promise of comfortable offshore cruising with a respectable turn of speed. The Farr-designed hull, combined with what has been described as an "over-sized rig and winches," contributes to its capable handling and performance on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

The Beneteau 50 is renowned for its generous interior volume and flexible layouts, designed to maximize comfort and livability for extended cruising or charter operations. Interior design by Armel Briand focused on creating spacious and comfortable environments. Typical configurations often feature four cabins, providing ample sleeping arrangements for multiple guests or a large family. A common layout found in many models includes a master cabin forward and two double cabins aft, with a "three stateroom, three head interior layout" also being prevalent.

The main saloon is spacious, serving as a central gathering area, complemented by a fully equipped galley capable of supporting long voyages. The forward cabin, in particular, is noted for its thoughtful design and generous space. While specific details on materials and finish quality require direct inspection of individual boats, Beneteau typically utilizes a blend of wood trim and fiberglass liners to create a functional yet inviting interior. Storage is generally ample throughout the vessel, catering to the needs of cruisers, and ventilation is addressed to ensure comfort in various climates. The accommodations are widely regarded as cleverly designed, making the most of the yacht's substantial beam to provide uncompromised living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau 50 generally appreciate its robust construction and the comfortable motion it exhibits, particularly in a seaway, aligning with its design as an offshore cruiser. The yacht's spaciousness and comfortable interior are frequently highlighted as key strengths, making it well-suited for families or entertaining guests. The overall sailing performance is also well-received, with many finding it to be a capable and enjoyable boat to handle, especially given its size and cruising orientation. The availability of owner's manuals and wiring diagrams online is often seen as a practical benefit for maintenance and troubleshooting.

While specific recurring issues unique to the Beneteau 50 are not widely documented as pervasive manufacturing defects, some general considerations for Beneteau yachts of this era may include common areas for inspection such as original deck fittings for potential leaks or structural elements for signs of stress, though these are not necessarily exclusive to this model. The community of Beneteau owners often provides a strong support network for knowledge exchange and camaraderie.