Grand Soleil 50 (1992) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Grand Soleil 50 in 1992 marked a significant addition to Cantiere del Pardo's esteemed portfolio of yachts. The shipyard, with a legacy stretching back to 1973, consistently sought to integrate Italian design excellence with robust performance in its vessels. For the 50-footer, Grand Soleil notably commissioned Doug Peterson, whose extensive experience, particularly from America's Cup projects, brought the very latest in hull design and materials to the fore. This collaboration underscored a design philosophy focused on optimizing both weight and stiffness, leading to a marked improvement in the boat's feel and performance. Approximately 30 units of the Grand Soleil 50 were built, solidifying its presence as a desirable performance cruiser. During its production, Cantiere del Pardo, ever attentive to sailor feedback, made a notable adjustment to the interior, switching the positions of the galley and saloon from the original design to enhance livability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Grand Soleil 50’s design elements translate directly into a highly engaging sailing experience. With a reported sail area of 1,290 square feet and a displacement of 27,558 pounds, she boasts a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 22.61. This high ratio indicates that the Grand Soleil 50 is well-powered and capable of strong performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions, allowing her to "fly with the wind". Her displacement-to-length ratio, calculated at around 192.2, positions her firmly in the category of lighter, more performance-oriented vessels for her size, rather than a heavy displacement cruiser.

Equipped with a fin keel and spade rudder, the Grand Soleil 50 offers responsive handling and maneuverability. While her ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 0.344 suggests moderate stiffness, the inherent focus on a sturdy and lightweight hull, a hallmark of Cantiere del Pardo's construction ethos, contributes to her ability to stand up to a breeze. Reviews consistently praise her fantastic sailing performance, emphasizing her speed and elegant motion through the water.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Grand Soleil 50 is designed for comfort and extended cruising, characterized by precious wood finishes that exemplify Italian craftsmanship. The layout typically features an owner's cabin located forward, providing a private and spacious retreat. Aft, two double cabins are situated beneath the cockpit, offering comfortable accommodations for guests or crew. While specific details on storage and ventilation require an in-depth review of individual boat configurations, the emphasis on luxurious and comfortable cabins suggests ample provision for liveaboard or extended cruising needs. The aforementioned mid-production change, which saw the galley and saloon positions swapped, indicates a design evolution aimed at optimizing the interior flow and functionality based on user experience.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Grand Soleil 50 frequently express satisfaction with its dual capabilities as both a competitive racer and a comfortable cruiser. The yacht is consistently praised for its robust construction, elegant Italian aesthetics, and, notably, its thrilling sailing performance. While specific recurring issues are not widely detailed in general reviews, the overall sentiment points to a well-regarded vessel that delivers on its promise of combining speed with liveaboard comfort. The focus on weight and stiffness in the original design translates into a rewarding on-water feel, often highlighted by owners who appreciate her handling characteristics.