Caliber 47 Lrc Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Caliber 47 LRC was introduced in 1999, continuing Caliber Yachts' lineage of dedicated cruising vessels. Michael McCreary, a naval architect and one of the founding brothers of Caliber Yachts, was the designer behind the 47 LRC. The builder's ethos, consistent throughout its history, focused on producing exceptionally strong, safe, and comfortable bluewater cruising yachts, often likening them to the "Hummer of Ocean Sailing Yachts" due to their ruggedness. This core design philosophy prioritizes safety, seaworthiness, and stability, making Caliber yachts particularly appealing to couples and individuals planning extensive voyages. The 47 LRC is built with a solid fiberglass hull, a construction method favored by Caliber for its inherent strength and integrity, and features a "Multi-Bulkhead Bonding System" for enhanced structural integrity. Her design incorporates a fin keel for maneuverability and a skeg-hung rudder for protection in challenging offshore conditions. While specific "MkI vs. MkII" variations are not prominent, the boat was later offered in an "SEries" (Simple Elegance Series), indicating refinements and standard packages rather than fundamental hull changes.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Caliber 47 LRC is engineered for comfortable and secure passage-making, rather than outright racing performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.77, she is moderately powered for her substantial displacement, suggesting good performance in moderate-to-strong winds but perhaps requiring more wind to get going in lighter conditions. Some sources describe her as "slightly under powered" but still "fast, stable and comfortable" and capable of handling "a variety of wind and sea conditions."

Her Ballast to Displacement (Bal/D) ratio of about 0.394 (39.4%) indicates a solid amount of ballast relative to her overall weight, contributing significantly to her inherent stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up well to a breeze. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at a very high 535.45, firmly places the 47 LRC in the heavy displacement category. This heavy build is a hallmark of Caliber's "go anywhere" philosophy, translating to a comfortable and steady motion in a seaway, reducing pitching and rolling for a more secure ride. Owners have often reported that the Caliber 47 LRC instills high confidence, even for novice bluewater sailors heading straight out to sea. While the fin keel provides good maneuverability, it offers less directional stability compared to a full keel design.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Caliber 47 LRC is designed for luxurious and comfortable accommodations, especially suited for four people on long voyages. Typically, the layout features a two-cabin, two-head configuration with a hand-crafted teak interior, exuding a classic marine aesthetic. The aft owner's cabin is particularly notable, offering a queen-sized island berth and expansive storage, providing a private and spacious retreat.

The galley and salon areas are designed for liveability, offering ample space and amenities for extended periods aboard. A large and well-organized engine room, situated between the galley and the owner's head, allows for easy access and maintenance of the 75-hp Yanmar engine. Attention to detail is evident in features such as the horizontal engine/shaft alignment, which is part of Caliber's unique design to reduce vibration and noise. The vessel boasts generous tankage, with a fuel capacity of 277 gallons and a water capacity of 225 gallons, underscoring its long-range cruising capabilities. Practical considerations for offshore sailing are also evident in features like watertight collision bulkheads and wide decks with aggressive nonskid, substantial lifelines, and a robust bow pulpit, ensuring safety and ease of movement on deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Caliber 47 LRC consistently praise its build quality and suitability for serious offshore cruising. Many consider it an ideal bluewater vessel, appreciating the blend of robust construction and a luxurious, comfortable interior. The boat is frequently described as high-quality, well-maintained, and ready for extended voyages, reflecting the enduring nature of Caliber's construction. The confidence-inspiring characteristics and the ability to comfortably handle various sea conditions are recurring themes in owner feedback. While specific "common problems" are not widely reported, owners generally highlight the boat's solid nature and its "go anywhere" capability, reinforcing Caliber's reputation for building dependable and seaworthy yachts. The active online communities and forums for Caliber owners further attest to a loyal network that values the brand's commitment to quality cruising sailboats.