Grand Soleil 50 (B&C) Information, Review, Specs

As part of Cantiere del Pardo, Grand Soleil has a long-standing reputation for producing yachts that are icons of Italian style, emphasizing a harmonious combination of design, technology, and innovation.

The Grand Soleil 50 entered production in 2013 and continued until 2017, marking its place in a lineage of performance cruisers from Cantiere del Pardo. This model represented a significant evolution, featuring an entirely new hull and deck design compared to its 50-foot predecessors. The design philosophy behind the Grand Soleil 50 centered on creating a yacht that could offer excellent performance alongside comfortable and high-quality accommodation. Grand Soleil, as a builder, has consistently focused on delivering yachts that are easy to sail fast, a testament to their deep construction experience and innovative solutions. 3, 4, Builder Article

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Grand Soleil 50 is characterized by its lively sailing performance, a trait indicative of its design as a sport cruiser capable of both competitive regattas and comfortable long-distance cruising. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 23.00, she is poised to perform exceptionally well in lighter air conditions, making the most of minimal breezes. Her ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.35, suggests a moderate level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a good amount of wind without excessive heeling. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio of approximately 149.85 classifies her as a relatively lighter, more performance-oriented vessel for her size. This combination of ratios points to a boat that is nimble and responsive. Owners and reviewers often describe her as a yacht with "extraordinary levels of solid performance and control," highlighting her balance and ease of handling across various sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not detailed in the core specifications, the Grand Soleil 50 is known for its well-appointed and comfortable interior, consistent with Grand Soleil's reputation for luxury performance yachts. The interior design by Sculli-Negrato incorporates "precious wood finishes" and "comfortable cabins," contributing to a refined onboard experience. The typical layout includes a spacious owner's cabin located forward, often featuring a private head and ample storage. Aft, there are usually twin double cabins situated under the cockpit, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements for guests or family. The salon is designed to be light and airy, enhanced by double hull windows on each side and long coachroof windows that allow natural light to flood the interior. High-quality materials such as Alcantara upholstery with white stitching further elevate the Italian designer aesthetic, contributing to a premium feel throughout the living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Grand Soleil 50 generally express satisfaction with its blend of performance and comfort. While specific common problems are not widely detailed in public forums, the brand as a whole is often praised for its robust construction quality. Feedback often highlights the boat's solid build and its capability to handle varied conditions, reflecting Cantiere del Pardo's commitment to quality. The robust construction and comfortable motion in a seaway are frequently cited strengths, aligning with the shipyard's long history of producing well-regarded yachts.