CS 50 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the CS 50 unfolded during a pivotal period for CS Yachts. Built between 1987 and 1988, the yacht emerged at the peak of CS Yachts' production capabilities, just as the company had expanded to a larger facility in 1987. The builder, known for combining robust construction with thoughtful design, primarily utilized fiberglass for durable and relatively low-maintenance production. This ethos would undoubtedly have been applied to their largest and most ambitious project.

The design of the CS 50 was entrusted to Germán Frers, an Argentine maritime architect celebrated for his elegant, high-performance cruising yachts. Frers' philosophy consistently emphasizes a harmonious blend of performance and grace, ensuring that cruising pleasure is integral to the design. For the CS 50, this meant creating a vessel capable of offshore passages with confidence, while retaining a responsive and enjoyable sailing experience. The rarity of the CS 50, with only one unit known to have been produced, suggests it may have been a custom or semi-custom endeavor, pushing the boundaries of CS Yachts' standard production line at the time.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The design by Germán Frers for the CS 50 points towards a yacht crafted for impressive performance, balancing speed with stability. With a length overall of just under 50 feet and a waterline length of 38.38 feet, she possesses the lines of a capable offshore cruiser. The reported sail area of 1390 square feet, combined with a displacement of 27,557 pounds, translates to a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 24.28. This high ratio suggests the CS 50 is well-powered and likely exhibits strong performance in lighter winds, being able to accelerate and maintain speed effectively.

Stability is also a key attribute, indicated by a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.44. This high percentage of ballast, primarily lead, within the keel contributes significantly to the yacht's stiffness, allowing it to stand up to a greater amount of wind without excessive heeling. The displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio of around 217.7 places the CS 50 in the medium-light displacement category for a vessel of its size, hinting at a design that prioritizes performance without sacrificing comfort or seaworthiness. Her theoretical hull speed of 8.3 knots further underscores her potential for swift passages. While specific anecdotal handling reviews for this unique vessel are scarce, Frers' reputation for balanced and responsive designs suggests the CS 50 would offer a rewarding helm and a comfortable motion through a seaway.

Accommodations and Layout

Given that only a single CS 50 was built, detailed interior layout plans and specific descriptions are not widely available. However, drawing upon CS Yachts' reputation for thoughtful design and quality construction, and considering the yacht's generous dimensions, one can infer the likely accommodations. As a 50-foot performance cruiser of its era, the interior would have been designed to maximize both comfort and functionality for extended cruising.

Typically, a yacht of this size would feature multiple private cabins, likely including a spacious V-berth forward, a comfortable owner's cabin aft, and potentially a guest cabin or two. A large main salon, often with opposing settees and a central dining table, would form the heart of the living space. The galley would be well-appointed for offshore cooking, featuring ample counter space, storage, refrigeration, and a stove/oven. Multiple heads (bathrooms) would also be expected for convenience and privacy. CS Yachts generally used quality materials, often incorporating warm wood finishes, durable upholstery, and practical fiberglass components, providing a classic and comfortable marine aesthetic. Storage would have been a priority, with lockers, drawers, and compartments integrated throughout the boat to accommodate provisions and gear for extended voyages. Ventilation, crucial for comfort in various climates, would typically be managed through a combination of deck hatches and opening portlights.