Columbia 5.5 Information, Review, Specs

The Columbia 5.5 commenced production in 1963, a period when Columbia Yachts (then Glas Laminates) was rapidly pioneering fiberglass construction for recreational boats, moving towards a modern, smooth fiberglass aesthetic. Its creation involved using Sigurd Herbern's successful 5.5 Meter "Carina" as a plug, with slight modifications, to develop a fiberglass version. However, the International 5.5 Meter governing body ultimately ruled that the fiberglass construction did not conform to class rules, as no fiberglass 5.5 meters had been built at that time. Despite this, the Columbia 5.5 was raced as a one-design class on the U.S. West Coast for several years.

Recognizing a broader market need, Columbia quickly modified the original design into the Columbia Sabre, a cruising version that incorporated a trunk cabin, accommodations for four, and other amenities. This transformation significantly expanded its appeal, leading to a much higher production volume, with between 300 and 400 Sabres built between 1963 and 1969, compared to only about 50 of the pure 5.5 Meter variant. Notably, Ericson Yachts also produced a similar version, the Scorpion 32, almost certainly from the same molds, highlighting the design's underlying quality and the interconnectedness of early fiberglass boat production. The original Columbia 5.5 ceased production in 1965.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Columbia 5.5, with its lean and performance-oriented design, exhibits characteristics of a responsive and capable sailboat. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio, calculated at approximately 18.23, indicates a boat that should perform well in lighter air, benefiting from its ample sail plan relative to its displacement. This suggests an ability to ghost along effectively when the wind is light.

A particularly striking feature is its high Ballast to Displacement ratio of approximately 62.2%. With 2,800 pounds of lead ballast in a 4,500-pound displacement, this ratio is exceptionally high, promising a remarkably stiff and stable platform capable of standing up to significant wind pressures and maintaining an upright stance. This contributes to a secure and powerful feel under sail, especially in breezy conditions.

The Displacement to Length ratio, at around 174.68 (based on its 22.58-foot waterline), classifies the Columbia 5.5 as a relatively light and performance-oriented vessel for its overall length of 32.42 feet. This combination of a relatively light displacement, a powerful sail plan, and substantial ballast suggests a boat that is both agile and robust. Anecdotal evidence refers to the boat as a "racer" that "looks like a rocket," hinting at its lively performance. Its fin keel, a common feature, is noted for providing "splendid manoeuvrability," further contributing to its responsive handling.

Accommodations and Layout

While the original Columbia 5.5 was an open-cockpit racer, its successor, the Columbia Sabre, transformed the design to offer more practical cruising accommodations. Given that the two boats share the same hull, the Sabre's layout provides insight into the potential for comfortable, albeit compact, living spaces. The Columbia Sabre featured a trunk cabin and amenities designed to accommodate up to four berths. Its interior layout typically included separate staterooms, a head, a galley area, and an ice box, providing the basic necessities for overnight stays and short cruises.

Specific details on headroom for the Columbia 5.5 or Sabre are not readily available in provided specifications, suggesting a more modest standing room characteristic of boats of its era and performance focus. Based on Columbia Yachts' general reputation during this period, the interior finish would likely have featured a blend of functional fiberglass surfaces with some wood trim, reflecting the company's commitment to comfortable, classic designs and what were considered "luxurious" bluewater yachts for their time. Ventilation and storage would have been designed to maximize the available space within the narrow beam, typical of a boat derived from a racing pedigree.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Columbia 5.5 and its cruising variant, the Columbia Sabre, frequently participate in online forums and discussions, offering collective insights into the boats' strengths and common characteristics. A recurring sentiment among owners is appreciation for the robust construction and the boat's solid feel on the water. Many praise its spirited sailing performance, particularly its ability to handle a variety of conditions with stability, likely a direct benefit of its high ballast-to-displacement ratio. The maneuverability afforded by its fin keel is also often highlighted as a positive attribute.

However, common considerations or maintenance points noted by owners often revolve around the age of these vessels. Issues such as aging original deck fittings, which might require re-bedding to prevent leaks, are typical for boats of this vintage. Owners might also discuss the challenges and solutions related to updating older systems, such as engine replacements, a common upgrade for many classic sailboats. Despite these typical aging concerns, the Columbia 5.5 and Sabre generally maintain a reputation for being capable and enjoyable boats, particularly for those who appreciate a classic design with a strong performance heritage.