Columbia 52 Information, Review, Specs

The Columbia 52's inception in 1971 marked a bold statement from Columbia Yachts, which by then was a subsidiary of the Whittaker Corporation. This period saw Columbia establishing itself as one of the largest and most successful American builders of production fiberglass sailing yachts, known for classic designs and comfortable, "luxurious" bluewater vessels. The Columbia 52, designed by William Tripp, was notably envisioned as a "muscle boat" with a clear aim to excel in racing under the nascent International Offshore Rule (IOR). Tripp's design philosophy for the 52 combined a performance-oriented hull with the amenities expected of a bluewater cruiser.

During its short production run, only seven Columbia 52s were built. Reflecting Columbia's broader strategy during the early 1970s, the Columbia 52 was also offered in kit form under the "Sailcrafter 52" designation. This initiative, part of Columbia's Sailcrafter Custom Yachts program from 1971 to 1973, allowed owners to acquire a bare hull and finish the interior themselves, a common practice for the company during that period.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Columbia 52, with its fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, was designed for a blend of performance and offshore capability. Its calculated sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.46 suggests a yacht with moderate light-air performance, capable of moving well in a breeze but not necessarily a light-wind ghost. The high ballast to displacement ratio of 0.50 (50%) indicates exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to significant wind pressures and maintain its sail plan effectively, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway.

With a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 269.9, the Columbia 52 falls into the category of a moderately heavy cruiser for its length, leaning towards a more traditional cruising yacht rather than a lightweight racer. However, its design intent for IOR racing implies a fine balance and responsiveness not typically found in heavier displacement vessels. While specific anecdotal handling characteristics are not widely documented, its design as a cruiser-racer by a respected designer like William Tripp suggests a balanced helm and capable performance across various conditions. It was equipped with an inboard Perkins 4.107 diesel engine, a common choice for its era, providing reliable auxiliary power.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Columbia 52 was designed to be spacious and luxurious, catering to the cruising aspirations of owners while complementing its offshore racing pedigree. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the substantial beam of 13 feet and an overall length of nearly 52 feet would have allowed for generous living spaces below deck.

Typical interior arrangements for a yacht of this size and era would feature a forward V-berth cabin, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a comprehensive galley, and a dedicated head compartment. Given its design as a "luxurious" cruiser-racer, the finish quality would likely have included a significant amount of wood trim, robust fiberglass moldings, and ample storage for provisions and personal gear. Ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening ports. While some hulls were sold unfinished, allowing owners to customize their interiors, the standard factory-finished models were configured for comfortable offshore living. Detailed interior arrangement plans from 1971 are available, suggesting well-thought-out and functional layouts.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Columbia Yachts, including the larger models like the 52, are often noted for their dedication and enthusiasm for the brand. The robust construction, a hallmark of Columbia's fiberglass builds, is a frequently praised attribute. These vessels were built during a period when fiberglass construction was gaining prominence for its durability and reduced maintenance compared to traditional wooden boats.

While detailed accounts of common strengths and weaknesses specific to the Columbia 52 are not extensively documented in widely accessible forums, the general reputation of Columbia yachts from this era often highlights their solid build and seaworthiness. Potential areas of maintenance, common to boats of this vintage, could involve the upkeep of original systems, deck hardware, and ensuring the integrity of the fiberglass laminate over decades of use. Owners generally appreciate the Columbia 52 for its ability to combine comfortable cruising with a satisfying turn of speed, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a large, classic fiberglass yacht for extended voyages or spirited sailing.