Offshore 47 (Cheoy Lee) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 47 commenced in 1973, reflecting Cheoy Lee's significant expansion into pleasure craft production during that era. A.E. Bill Luders Jr., a foremost architect in the marine world, designed the Offshore 47 with a clear vision: a yacht built for performance with the resilience to handle challenging offshore conditions. The builder, Cheoy Lee Shipyard, itself boasts a rich history, having pioneered the extensive use of fiberglass in boatbuilding and the innovative application of GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) and foam sandwich technology by the mid-1960s. This expertise translated into the Offshore 47's robust fiberglass hull, deck, and cabin trunk, molded to Lloyd's specifications. While primarily featured as a masthead ketch, the Offshore 47 was also offered with sloop and yawl rig configurations, providing versatility to suit different sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cheoy Lee Offshore 47 is characterized by its heavy displacement and stable performance under sail. With a displacement of 27,000 pounds on a 33-foot waterline, its Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 335.3 categorizes it as a heavy cruiser, indicative of a comfortable motion in a seaway and significant carrying capacity. The vessel's Sail Area to Displacement ratio of around 17.7, coupled with a reported generous sail plan for various rig options, suggests a good balance for light-air performance, allowing her to move well even in lighter breezes.

Furthermore, the Offshore 47 boasts a high Ballast to Displacement ratio of roughly 0.407, with 11,000 pounds of lead ballast, contributing significantly to its stiffness and stability. This high ballast ratio ensures the boat stands up well to a breeze, reducing heel and providing a more secure and comfortable ride in challenging conditions. Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Offshore 47 as a "good performer" that is "stable / stiff" and possesses "excellent righting capability," reinforcing its design as a sturdy and reliable offshore passage-maker. The design also yields a hull speed of 7.7 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 47 is designed for comfort and extended living aboard, typically accommodating six people across two cabins plus the salon, and featuring two heads. The craftsmanship often showcases a traditional "teak joinered interior," contributing to a warm and classic ambiance.

The layout typically includes a forward cabin with a dedicated head, providing privacy for guests or crew. Aft of the main cabin and galley, there is often an additional guest or crew cabin. Interior bulkheads and flooring supports are constructed from well-laminated marine plywood, indicating solid structural integrity. Owners have frequently praised the attractive and functional interior layouts, noting features like curved salon seating that enhance the living space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Cheoy Lee Offshore models, including the 47, frequently commend their robust construction and seaworthiness, highlighting their capability as strong and powerful offshore passage-makers. The comfortable motion in a seaway is a commonly lauded characteristic, reflecting the boat's heavy displacement and stable design.

However, a recurring theme among older Cheoy Lee vessels, sometimes humorously referred to as "Cheoy Leakys," can be issues with original deck fittings and potential leaks over time, often requiring re-bedding of hardware. While some owners have reported successfully re-sealing decks or even stripping original teak, others have noted their specific boats have maintained dry interiors with well-preserved teak, suggesting that the condition can vary greatly depending on past maintenance. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the overall consensus among owners points to the Cheoy Lee Offshore 47 as a solid and dependable vessel, appreciated for its enduring quality and blue-water capabilities.