Harpoon 5.2 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Harpoon 5.2 lies within Boston Whaler's brief but impactful venture into sailboat manufacturing, which occurred between 1977 and 1983. Known for revolutionizing the powerboat industry with their "Unsinkable Legend™" foam-filled fiberglass hull construction (Unibond™), Boston Whaler applied its signature manufacturing ethos of robust construction and enduring quality to the Harpoon line. During this period, the Harpoon 5.2 was produced alongside other models, totaling approximately 1,700 units across the series.

While primarily known for their powerboats, Boston Whaler's decision to produce a sailboat, designed by the respected C&C Design Group, underscored a desire to offer a reliable and safe option to the sailing community. A key design variation available was an open cockpit version, offered without the small cuddy cabin present in the standard model, providing options for different user preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With an overall length of 17 feet and a waterline length of 15 feet, the Harpoon 5.2 is characterized by its nimble and responsive handling. Weighing in at 565 pounds, its lightweight yet sturdy fiberglass solid hull, combined with a fractional sloop rig, contributes to its lively performance. The boat features a centerboard keel, allowing for a variable draft from a shallow 0.31 feet, ideal for beaching or navigating skinny waters, to a deeper 3.67 feet for enhanced upwind performance.

Owners and reviewers often describe the Harpoon 5.2 as a boat that "sails on a puff of wind," indicating good light-air performance. Its balanced design makes it a forgiving vessel, often recommended as an excellent platform for new sailors to learn on, while still offering enough responsiveness to engage more experienced skippers. The boat's relatively light displacement means it is sensitive to weight distribution, and some owners have noted that the weight of an outboard engine can affect trim.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the Boston Whaler Harpoon 5.2 is designed primarily for day-sailing, though its layout offers practical amenities for extended outings. The standard model features a small cuddy cabin forward, providing a degree of shelter and storage space, which allows it to function as a day cruiser. This cuddy is not designed for full standing headroom but offers a private area for stowing gear or seeking refuge from the elements. An open cockpit version without this cuddy was also available for those prioritizing maximum open space.

The cockpit itself is described as ample for a boat of its size, providing comfortable seating for several adults. While specific details on interior finishes are scarce, period Boston Whalers typically incorporated durable fiberglass construction with practical elements, sometimes utilizing mahogany or teak for interior wood components to add a touch of warmth and traditional aesthetic. Storage within the cuddy and under cockpit seats would be modest but sufficient for day-sailing essentials.

Owner's Perspectives

The Boston Whaler Harpoon 5.2 has cultivated a "cult-like following" among its owners, who appreciate its enduring quality and reliable performance. Many owners laud it as a fantastic first sailboat, praising its stability, ease of handling, and overall forgiving nature, making it a great vessel for learning the ropes of sailing. The robust, unsinkable construction, characteristic of Boston Whaler, is a significant draw, instilling confidence in its durability and safety., 7]

However, common maintenance points and minor weaknesses have been noted. A frequently cited issue among owners involves the original Elvstrom bailers, which have a tendency to leak, often leading to rot in the surrounding plywood. This often necessitates re-bedding or alternative repair solutions. Despite such minor issues, the strong sense of community and shared enthusiasm among Harpoon 5.2 owners often leads to collaborative solutions and a sustained appreciation for these classic Boston Whaler sailboats. Many owners demonstrate a high level of care, frequently storing their boats indoors to preserve their condition.