Bristol 56.6 Information, Review, Specs

The Bristol 56.6 began its production in 1986. It is notable as an extended version of the earlier Bristol 54.4, reflecting Bristol Yachts' continuous evolution of its larger cruising platforms. The design was penned by Dieter Empacher, a maritime architect known for his attention to hull form, characterized by a slightly more speedy hull design. This approach aimed to blend comfort with sailing efficiency, even within the context of a substantial cruising yacht. Bristol Yachts, under the leadership of founder Clint Pearson, embraced fiberglass as a revolutionary material for boat construction from its inception in the mid-1960s. The company quickly earned a reputation for producing "overbuilt" and exceptionally durable vessels, a manufacturing ethos that continued with the 56.6, ensuring solid, seaworthy yachts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bristol 56.6 is categorized as a heavy displacement sailboat, a characteristic evident in its Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 313.4. This high D/L ratio suggests a traditional, robust cruiser, emphasizing seaworthiness and comfort in varied conditions over outright speed. Despite its heavy displacement, the design by Dieter Empacher incorporated a "slightly more speedy hull," aiming for a balance that allows for comfortable heavy-weather performance while still achieving impressive light-air speeds.

With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of about 13.57, the Bristol 56.6 is not designed as a high-performance racer, indicating a conservative sail plan well-suited for cruising. While some analyses suggest it might be "under powered" in terms of its overall sail-to-weight proportion, the vessel is praised for its ability to perform well in light winds. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.31 contributes to its stability. Although this ratio might appear moderate, the overall heavy displacement and thoughtful design ensure that the Bristol 56.6 is "reasonably stable/stiff and has an excellent righting capability." As a cutter-rigged vessel, it offers flexibility in sail configuration, allowing for easier handling and efficiency across various wind strengths.

Accommodations and Layout

The Bristol 56.6 is characterized by a spacious center cockpit design, a popular feature for larger cruising yachts that offers a secure and comfortable helming position while allowing for expansive interior volume. The interior is frequently described as "warm and cozy" with "classic lines," reflecting Bristol's commitment to quality finishes and traditional aesthetics.

Central to the living space is a main cabin designed for comfort, sometimes featuring amenities like barrel chairs and flat-screen televisions (though these may be owner modifications). The aft section houses a "spacious and comfortable Master Stateroom" which boasts a "full queen size" berth, providing a luxurious private retreat. While specific headroom figures are not readily available, the vessel's substantial beam of 15.5 feet and its classification as a large cruising yacht suggest generous interior volume. Additional accommodations typically include guest cabins, with some configurations featuring bunk beds, catering to multiple occupants for extended voyages. The layout is designed to maximize living comfort and storage, reflecting its purpose as a capable blue water cruiser.