Grand Soleil 52 LC Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Launched in 2018, the Grand Soleil 52 LC emerged as a pivotal model within Cantiere del Pardo's "Long Cruise" range, specifically optimized for extensive blue-water sailing. The design brief for the 52 LC aimed to create a cruise boat that was not only faster but also offered superior performance compared to its competitors, while maintaining the brand's core values of design, comfort, and quality.

Cantiere del Pardo, with a legacy spanning over 50 years, is renowned for its robust construction, innovative technologies, and high-quality materials. This ethos is evident in the 52 LC, which boasts a solid fiberglass hull and deck. During its production, Grand Soleil offered several options to customize the vessel for specific sailing profiles. These included an optional shallow-draft keel of 6.89 feet (2.1 meters) alongside the standard 8.2-foot (2.5-meter) bulb keel, an optional 110hp Yanmar diesel engine as an alternative to the standard 75hp Volvo Penta, and an increased fuel tank capacity. For those seeking enhanced performance, an optional "sport package" was available, featuring a taller mast that added 14 square meters of sail area and eliminated the arch, catering to more performance-oriented cruising without sacrificing comfort.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Grand Soleil 52 LC is engineered for stimulating and balanced sailing, delivering a performance-oriented experience characteristic of its Italian heritage. Her impressive sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 22.43 indicates strong performance, particularly excelling in lighter wind conditions where she can maintain speed efficiently. This suggests that the yacht is responsive and can generate significant power from her sails.

With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 0.331, coupled with her bulb keel, the 52 LC achieves a good balance of stability, allowing her to stand up to a fair amount of wind while providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Her displacement to length ratio, calculated at approximately 141.68, positions her firmly as a very light displacement vessel for her size. This low ratio signifies a boat designed for speed and efficiency, offering performance competitive with larger vessels while remaining manageable and agile on the water. Owners can appreciate the ease of organization, management, and the performance the yacht delivers on long-range voyages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Grand Soleil 52 LC, designed by Nauta Yacht Design, is characterized by its spaciousness, luxury, and modern Italian aesthetic. Typical layouts feature three generously sized guest cabins, providing ample comfort for owners and their guests. Additionally, a dedicated skipper's cabin ensures privacy and functionality for professional crew or as extra storage.

Grand Soleil yachts are celebrated for their stylish interiors and exceptional build quality, and the 52 LC is no exception. While specific details on materials vary, the brand is known for integrating quality finishes and smart design solutions that enhance both comfort and usability for extended periods at sea or while living aboard. The ergonomic deck layout further complements the interior, ensuring ease of movement and operation during passages.