Sailcrafter 50 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Sailcrafter 50 lies with the Columbia 50, which was first introduced in 1965 by Columbia Yachts, then a pioneering force in the fiberglass sailboat industry. Columbia Yachts, founded by Richard "Dick" Valdes, had rapidly grown from a fiberglass laminating company into one of America's largest production yacht builders, known for its commitment to durable fiberglass construction and delivering classic, comfortable bluewater yachts.

The Sailcrafter 50, commencing production in 1971, emerged as Columbia Yachts ventured into the burgeoning market of kit boats through its Sailcrafter Custom Yachts division., This initiative allowed a broader audience to access large-scale yacht ownership by purchasing a bare hull or a partially completed vessel. The design, by William H. Tripp Jr., was considered avant-garde for its time, with Tripp being an early adopter of fiberglass for yacht design since the late 1950s. His philosophy for the Columbia 50, extended to the Sailcrafter 50, aimed for a boat that was "sexy, fast and fun," emphasizing excellent sailing qualities without relying heavily on large genoas for performance. While the Columbia 50 saw various interior arrangements drawn by Tripp, the kit format of the Sailcrafter 50 further enabled owners to implement their preferred layouts and finishes.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sailcrafter 50, with its substantial dimensions and robust build, offers a sailing experience characterized by stability and comfort. With a reported sail area of 979 square feet and a displacement of 32,000 pounds, its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 15.54 suggests that it is a heavy displacement cruiser. This indicates a boat that carries its weight well, performing steadily in a breeze rather than excelling in light airs.

Complementing this is a high Ballast to Displacement ratio of about 45.6%, derived from its 14,600 pounds of ballast, which contributes significantly to the boat's stiffness and ability to stand up to strong winds. The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at around 390, further reinforces its classification as a very heavy displacement vessel, offering a comfortable motion in a seaway and a stable platform. The Sailcrafter 50 is noted for having "excellent sailing qualities on all points of sail in all weather conditions" and is described as a "great 'all purpose' sailing boat" that performs well offshore for extended periods. Owners frequently commend its ability to provide a relatively comfortable ride, particularly when sailing upwind in boisterous conditions. The hull form, featuring a fin keel and spade rudder, contributes to its responsive handling and lack of "bad habits" at sea.

Accommodations and Layout

The Sailcrafter 50 boasts a generous length overall of 50 feet and a beam of over 12 feet, contributing to a spacious interior and a large flush deck. [11, While specific interior details varied widely due to its nature as a kit boat, William Tripp Jr. designed multiple interior arrangements for the Columbia 50, which would have informed the choices available to Sailcrafter builders.

Typically, a boat of this size from its era would feature multiple cabins, including a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a navigation station, a galley, and one or more heads. The large hull volume would have allowed for comfortable quarter berths or additional cabins aft. Given Columbia's reputation for delivering "comfortable interiors" and "luxurious bluewater yachts," even the kit versions would have aspired to a high standard of finish, often utilizing ample wood trim in the salon and cabins. The flush deck design would have provided ample exterior space, while below, the substantial beam would translate into good headroom and generous living areas, making it suitable for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Sailcrafter 50, and its finished counterpart the Columbia 50, often express deep affection for their vessels, frequently describing them as "beloved classics." They consistently praise the boat's solid construction, a hallmark of Columbia Yachts' early fiberglass production, which contributes to a feeling of security and a comfortable motion offshore. Many owners find that the boat's performance remains competitive, with some asserting it "performs just about like a modern boat," capable of both local racing and extensive voyaging. The adaptable nature of the kit construction also meant that the quality of finish and specific interior amenities could vary significantly, depending on the skill and dedication of the original builder. These boats are generally regarded as robust, well-designed cruisers that offer excellent value and a stable platform for blue-water adventures.