Bristol 51.1 Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Bristol 51.1 commenced in 1987. As with many of Bristol's larger yachts of this era, the 51.1 was often built on a semi-custom basis, allowing for some variations in specifics according to owner preferences. The design comes from the board of Dieter Empacher, a naval architect known for his "East Coast" design sensibilities, which translate into clean, yacht-like profiles.

Bristol Yachts, established by Clint Pearson in 1964, was a pioneer in commercially successful fiberglass sailboat construction in the United States. During the period of the 51.1's production, Bristol maintained its ethos of solid construction, emphasizing durability and a traditional approach to yacht building. The Bristol 51.1 features a solid laminate hull complemented by a balsa-cored deck, a common construction method for its time, designed to provide stiffness and insulation. A notable design feature is its keel/centerboard configuration, which allows for a variable draft ranging from a shoal-friendly 5.3 feet to a deeper 10.5 feet when the board is fully extended, offering versatility for both shallow anchorages and optimal upwind performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bristol 51.1 is characterized by its heavy displacement and inherent stability, indicative of its design as a serious offshore cruiser. With a displacement of 43,700 pounds and a length overall of 51 feet, she is a substantial vessel. The boat's displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) of approximately 260.15 classifies her as a heavy displacement yacht, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway and the ability to carry significant stores for extended voyages.

Her sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) stands at 15.80, indicating a moderate sail plan relative to her weight. This suggests that while she is not designed for blistering speed in light winds, she will be manageable and powerful once the wind fills in. The high ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of 44.62% points to excellent initial stiffness and a strong ability to stand up to a breeze, contributing significantly to her stable and secure feel on the water. This combination of ratios implies a boat that is "very stable / stiff and has an excellent righting capability," making her a reliable choice for blue-water cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom figures are not consistently available, the substantial beam of 15.17 feet and overall length of the Bristol 51.1 allow for a generous and comfortable interior. As a large production yacht of her era, the accommodation targets would have focused on maximizing living space and amenities suitable for extended cruising or liveaboard situations.

Owners can typically expect a layout featuring multiple private cabins, a well-appointed salon, a functional galley, and at least one head, sometimes more given her size. Bristol Yachts were known for their commitment to quality materials and robust joinery, often incorporating ample wood trim and solid finishes that contribute to a warm and traditional interior ambiance. Storage is generally plentiful, designed to accommodate the gear and provisions required for long passages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Bristol yachts, including the 51.1, often praise the builder's commitment to robust construction. Bristol boats are frequently described as "overbuilt" and possessing "better than average construction," a testament to their durability and longevity. The enduring presence of Bristol vessels in harbors worldwide speaks to their ability to withstand the test of time and demanding marine environments.

However, like many fiberglass boats of their vintage, some owners note common maintenance areas, particularly concerning the balsa-cored decks. If original deck fittings were not properly sealed or maintained over the years, the balsa core could be susceptible to moisture intrusion and require attention to prevent delamination. Despite such potential refurbishment needs, the underlying solid construction and seaworthy design of the Bristol 51.1 make her a sought-after vessel for those looking for a capable and well-built cruising platform.