Grand Soleil 50 (J/V) Information, Review, Specs

The Grand Soleil 50 (J/V) entered production in 2002, with various sources indicating her build run extended through 2014, or even up to 2017. Her design marks a collaboration between the esteemed Italian builder, Cantiere del Pardo, and the German naval architects Judel/Vrolijk & Co.. Cantiere del Pardo, founded in 1973, has consistently pursued a vision of creating yachts that blend performance with elegant design and exceptional craftsmanship, embracing a harmonious mix of comfort, quality, and innovative solutions.

Judel/Vrolijk & Co., known for their high-tech racing yacht designs and success in prestigious regattas, including America's Cup involvement, brought a performance-oriented philosophy to the Grand Soleil 50. This partnership aimed for a design that emphasized weight optimization and stiffness, crucial elements for a responsive and fast yacht. During its production, the Grand Soleil 50 was offered in potential variations, notably identified as "J&V Standard" and "J&V Race" versions, suggesting options tailored to different sailing preferences. The yacht was also available with a deep keel, reaching 9.17 feet in some configurations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Grand Soleil 50 is widely recognized for its "fantastic sailing performance" and "extraordinary levels of solid performance and control". With a length overall of nearly 49 feet and a long waterline of over 43 feet, she is designed to offer speed comparable to larger vessels. Her calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 18.24 suggests strong performance potential, particularly in lighter air conditions where she can generate ample power from her sail plan.

The yacht's Displacement to Length ratio, at around 155.9, indicates a lighter, more performance-oriented displacement for her size, contributing to her agility and speed. While her Ballast to Displacement ratio of approximately 0.33 might suggest a moderate level of inherent stiffness from ballast alone, the design likely incorporates significant form stability, a common characteristic in modern performance cruisers. This combination allows the Grand Soleil 50 to stand up to a good breeze while maintaining comfort and control. Sailing reviews frequently describe the experience as akin to "driving a Porsche," highlighting her responsiveness and the ability to temper her performance for comfortable cruising when desired. Her spade rudder ensures precise steering and excellent maneuverability.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Grand Soleil 50 is designed to offer "quality, comfortable accommodation" that complements her performance capabilities. Typical layouts include an owner's cabin positioned forward, often accompanied by two double cabins located aft, beneath the cockpit. Most configurations feature two heads (wet cells) and an L-shaped galley, providing functional living spaces for extended periods on board. The interior is characterized by "precious wood finishes," contributing to a "modern and cosy" ambiance. While specific maximum headroom is not consistently documented, the overall design prioritizes a comfortable living environment suitable for both extended cruising and accommodating crew during regattas. Storage is generally well-considered, supporting the yacht's capacity for longer voyages.