Endeavour 52 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The production of the Endeavour 52 spanned a period from 1989 to 1992. Designed by Johan Valentijn, a naval architect with a background working in his family's shipyard in Holland and studies in marine engineering, he had previously contributed to other significant Endeavour models including the Endeavour 38, 42, and 51. The Endeavour 52 is noted as a "later, updated (and stretched) version of the ENDEAVOUR 51", a model also designed by Valentijn and introduced in 1985.

During the era of the Endeavour 52's production, Endeavour Yacht Corp. increasingly emphasized center cockpit designs, catering to both the burgeoning charter market and cruising families. Their manufacturing ethos during this time prioritized ease of handling, offshore capability, taller rigs, and inboard chainplates. While earlier Endeavour models utilized plywood coring, the updated vessels, including those from this period, incorporated Klegecell closed-cell polyvinyl foam coring and a "multi-axial steel reinforced 'force grid' bonded to the hull for stiffness," later evolving to a sophisticated balsa/plywood/fiberglass grid system. Information regarding specific variations or production numbers for the Endeavour 52 is limited, though some sources suggest a very small number of hulls were built.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Endeavour 52, with its displacement of 35,000 lbs and a length at the waterline of 42.25 feet, is categorized as a moderate-heavy cruiser, reflected in its Displacement to Length Ratio of approximately 207. This suggests a solid, sea-kindly vessel, designed for comfortable passage making rather than outright speed.

Her Sail Area to Displacement Ratio of about 16.00 indicates a boat with moderate performance in lighter winds, meaning she will perform adequately but may require more breeze to truly come alive. However, her impressive Ballast to Displacement Ratio of 41.4% points to a stiff and stable platform, capable of standing up to significant wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. This high ballast ratio underscores her design as a capable offshore cruiser, prioritizing stability and comfort in challenging conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

As a large center cockpit design, the Endeavour 52 was specifically configured to maximize interior volume and enhance onboard liveability. While specific headroom figures are not available, the center cockpit layout inherently allowed for a significantly larger and more private aft cabin, often featuring a private head, providing excellent comfort and segregation of living and sleeping areas.

Reviews and general information suggest that Endeavour yachts of this size typically feature a spacious main salon, a well-appointed galley, and multiple sleeping cabins forward and aft, often including a V-berth. The emphasis was on creating comfortable cruising accommodations, utilizing materials and finishes characteristic of quality production fiberglass yachts of the era, which often included wood trim and ample storage for extended cruising. Owners' resources sometimes provide access to interior layouts and factory specifications, offering detailed insights into the typical arrangement and amenities of these vessels.

Owner's Perspectives

The enduring appeal of Endeavour sailboats is evident in the active community of owners who continue to maintain and sail these vessels, supported by forums like the Endeavour Sailboat Owners group. Many owners generally speak highly of Endeavour boats, praising their solid construction and suitability as cruising yachts. Like any vessel of its age, an Endeavour 52 may require ongoing maintenance, and owners frequently engage in refit and repair projects, as highlighted in various online discussions and video logs. The general consensus suggests that the Endeavour 52 provides a robust and comfortable platform for those seeking a capable cruising boat.