Lapworth 50 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Lapworth 50 was designed by the esteemed American naval architect C. William Lapworth in the early 1960s, with production running from 1962 to 1968. Lapworth was renowned for his philosophy of creating light displacement yachts that were fast and consistently successful in racing, a reputation strongly embodied by the Lapworth 50, which was specifically built to compete in the Transpac Race.

During this period, Cheoy Lee Shipyard, under the continued stewardship of the Lo family in Hong Kong, was known for its commitment to finely crafted vessels. While the shipyard was a pioneer in developing fiberglass construction techniques and phasing out wood in the 1960s, the Lapworth 50 was constructed with traditional wood planking for its hull and a wood deck. Cheoy Lee had already established a reputation for building elegant teak sailing yachts by the mid-1950s, and this dedication to quality materials would have been evident in the Lapworth 50's construction. The design offered versatility in its rig, being built as either a sloop or a yawl, and featured a double-ended hull with a center cockpit configuration. A notable aspect of its design for a wooden boat of its vintage was the inclusion of a modern fin keel and a separate spade rudder, features that were indicative of its performance aspirations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Lapworth 50’s design ratios reflect its performance-oriented lineage. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of 17.50, the yacht suggests a good balance for both light-air performance and the ability to carry sail in moderate conditions. Its Displacement to Length (Disp/LWL) ratio of 156.08 places it firmly in the light-to-moderate displacement category, highlighting Lapworth's intention for a fast, easily driven hull, which is notably "slimmer than 85% of all other designs" of its class. This combination of design elements contributes to its reputation as a "speedy sailboat."

The modern fin keel and spade rudder, advanced features for a 1960s wooden yacht, were integral to its handling characteristics, promising responsiveness and maneuverability. Designed for the rigors of the Transpac Race, the Lapworth 50 was built to handle open ocean conditions, suggesting a sea-kindly motion and reliable performance offshore.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its racing pedigree, the Lapworth 50 was designed with a "livable interior" capable of supporting "long offshore passages" and "extensive cruising." The center cockpit configuration typically allows for a spacious aft cabin, providing privacy and comfort away from the main salon. Descriptions indicate the presence of a full galley, essential for extended voyages. Given Cheoy Lee's tradition of building "elegant teak sailing yachts" in the era of the Lapworth 50's production, it is highly probable that the interior featured finely finished wood, contributing to a classic and warm aesthetic throughout the cabin. While specific details on the exact arrangement of berths, the salon, or additional amenities are limited, the emphasis on a "complete interior" suggests a thoughtful layout designed for comfort and functionality during its intended long-distance sailing.