Grand Soleil 52 (Frers) Information, Review, Specs

The Grand Soleil 52 was in production from 1987 to 1991, with approximately sixty units built during this period. Her design by Germán Frers marked a significant collaboration for Cantiere del Pardo, as this partnership in the 1990s ushered in a new era of iconic models, solidifying Grand Soleil's reputation for high-performance yachts. Frers' design philosophy for the Grand Soleil 52 emphasized a balance of performance and comfort, aiming to create a yacht that was both competitive on the racecourse and luxurious for cruising. The builder's ethos during this era, and indeed throughout its history, has been characterized by a fusion of Italian design excellence, robust performance, and the use of innovative technologies and high-quality materials.

Notably, during its production run, the Grand Soleil 52 was available in significant variations. A "Race version" was offered, optimized for competitive sailing with a deck layout featuring six winches and longitudinal jib tracks, differentiating it from the standard cruising configuration. This highlights the model's dual appeal to both serious racers and discerning cruisers.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Grand Soleil 52 (Frers) is equipped with a fin keel and spade rudder, contributing to its performance-oriented characteristics. With a reported sail area of 1526 square feet and a displacement of 41,590 pounds, her sail area to displacement ratio calculates to approximately 20.37. This relatively high ratio suggests that the Grand Soleil 52 is well-powered, capable of performing effectively even in lighter air conditions, while still retaining sufficient sail area for spirited performance when the wind increases.

Her ballast-to-displacement ratio, at approximately 0.403, indicates a good degree of stiffness and stability. This high percentage of ballast relative to total displacement means the boat is designed to stand up well to a breeze, offering a secure and comfortable motion in a seaway and making it a capable offshore vessel. The displacement to length ratio, around 327, places her in the category of a moderately heavy displacement vessel. This suggests a comfortable motion offshore, favoring stability and load-carrying capacity over extreme light-weight racing performance. While designed for performance, her robust build and substantial displacement indicate a stable and powerful ride, characteristic of a true performance cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Grand Soleil 52 (Frers) was designed for comfortable cruising, featuring a spacious and well-appointed layout. Typically, the original model offered a three-cabin, three-bathroom configuration. This arrangement usually includes a dedicated master cabin located in the bow, complete with a large private bathroom and a shower stall. Aft, there are generally two double cabins, often intended for guests or crew, each with its own en-suite head.

While specific details on the finish materials of the original 1987-1991 models are not extensively documented in broad reviews, Grand Soleil yachts are generally known for their quality craftsmanship and elegant Italian design, suggesting a well-finished interior with thoughtful use of materials characteristic of luxury yachts of its era. The layout provides ample room below deck, ensuring comfort and privacy for multiple occupants, making it suitable for extended voyages and accommodating guests without feeling cramped.