Csy 51 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the CSY 51 in 1985 marked a significant evolution for Endeavour Yacht Corporation. Founded in 1974, Endeavour initially gained recognition for its sturdy, shallow-draft "Florida boats" like the Endeavour 32 and 37, designed for coastal cruising in the Keys and Bahamas. However, by the 1980s, market demands were shifting towards vessels offering improved performance and updated construction methods, particularly for the growing charter industry.

To meet this demand, Endeavour collaborated with leading naval architects, including America's Cup designer Johan Valentijn. Valentijn's contribution to the Endeavour line in 1985 included the designs for the Endeavour 42 and the 51-foot model, which would become known as the CSY 51. This collaboration signaled a departure from Endeavour's earlier, simpler designs, moving towards yachts with taller rigs and more refined hydrodynamics to enhance sailing characteristics. Construction methods also evolved during this period; while earlier Endeavours used plywood for coring, the updated models like the 51 incorporated Klegecell closed-cell polyvinyl foam coring and featured a "multi-axial steel reinforced 'force grid' bonded to the hull for stiffness." Later, the company moved to a sophisticated balsa/plywood/fiberglass grid system in critical areas. The CSY 51, with its center cockpit configuration, reflected a deliberate design philosophy to provide a secure helm position, enhanced offshore capability, and distinct living areas for cruisers and charter guests.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The CSY 51 is characterized by its heavy displacement and robust build, offering a comfortable and stable motion in a seaway rather than outright speed. With a displacement of 35,000 lbs and a length overall of 51 feet, she is a substantial vessel. Her sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.17 suggests moderate performance, indicating she is capable in varied conditions but not optimized for light air. She will perform steadily, responding well to consistent winds without feeling overpowered easily.

A significant aspect of the CSY 51's stability comes from its high ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.465. This high percentage of ballast relative to her overall weight contributes to exceptional stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a considerable amount of wind and maintain her canvas in stronger breezes. The displacement to length ratio, a very high figure of approximately 463, categorizes the CSY 51 as a very heavy displacement cruiser. This metric reinforces her reputation for comfortable passages and impressive load-carrying capabilities, making her ideal for extended cruising or liveaboard life where significant stores are carried. With a hull speed of 8.71 knots, the CSY 51 is designed for steady, predictable progress, prioritizing comfort and safety over speed. Her masthead sloop rig provides a straightforward and powerful sail plan.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the CSY 51, as a large center cockpit yacht of its vintage, is renowned for its expansive and liveable interior. Builders like Endeavour, when designing large center cockpit vessels, often offered various layouts to cater to different needs, including "walk-thru" and "walk-over" configurations, particularly on similar models like the CSY 44. This design choice typically allows for a spacious aft cabin, offering privacy and comfort, often with its own head.

The main salon, positioned midships, usually features generous seating areas, often with a large dinette. The galley, typically located in a walkthrough connecting the salon to the aft cabin, benefits from the wide beam, allowing for ample counter space and storage, suitable for extended cruising provisions. Forward, the boat would typically include a V-berth or another private cabin, along with a forward head. Interior finishes in boats of this era from Endeavour would likely feature a combination of fiberglass liners with warm wood trim, creating a durable yet inviting atmosphere. Storage is generally abundant throughout, a key feature for a boat designed for long-term living aboard or extended voyages. Ventilation would be provided by numerous hatches and portlights, common on cruising yachts built in Florida's climate.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of CSY sailboats, including the CSY 51, frequently laud their robust construction and suitability for long-distance cruising. Online forums and owner groups, such as those found on Marill.com and CSYowners.com, serve as active communities where owners share experiences and advice, underscoring the enduring appeal and reliability of these vessels. These communities highlight the boats' solid fiberglass hulls and decks, which contribute to a reputation for durability. Owners often praise the comfortable motion of the CSY 51 in a seaway, a direct benefit of its heavy displacement, which minimizes pitching and rolling. The spacious interiors, particularly the well-appointed aft cabins characteristic of center cockpit designs, are also consistently appreciated for their liveability during extended periods aboard.

However, as with any vessel of its age, common maintenance considerations arise. A frequently mentioned area of attention for CSY boats in general is the original deck fittings and chain plates, which may require re-bedding or inspection due to aging. Overall, the collective sentiment among owners points to the CSY 51 as a dependable and comfortable cruising platform, requiring diligent maintenance characteristic of any well-used yacht, but offering substantial rewards in terms of liveability and offshore capability.