Gulfstar 50 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Gulfstar 50 was produced by Gulfstar Yachts from 1975 to 1980, with approximately 172 units built during its run. Designed by company founder Vince Lazzara, a pioneer in fiberglass boat construction, the 50-foot cruiser marked an important development in Gulfstar's design philosophy. After a period of focusing on versatile cruising designs, Lazzara's approach for models like the Gulfstar 50 began to emphasize improved construction and a more "balanced approach" to performance, moving away from some of the criticisms leveled at earlier models. This era saw Gulfstar's workmanship improve significantly, with the solid fiberglass hull becoming a hallmark of their robust construction.

The Gulfstar 50 was offered in both sloop and ketch rig configurations, providing options for different sailing preferences, and a "tall sloop" variant was also available. Many of these vessels were initially built for the charter trade, sometimes leading to the unofficial designation "Gulfstar CSY 50," though it was not formally built by or for CSY.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 50 feet and a waterline length of just under 40 feet, the Gulfstar 50 exhibits characteristics typical of a substantial cruising yacht. Its displacement-to-length ratio, around 250, positions it as a medium-heavy displacement vessel, indicating a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than a light-footed racer. Owners and reviewers often praise its well-mannered behavior, noting that its forefoot has sufficient bite and its deep bilges help prevent slamming in choppy conditions.

The sail area to displacement ratio, approximately 13.06 (for the sloop rig), suggests that while she is capable, the Gulfstar 50 is not designed for blistering light-air performance. Instead, her sailing characteristics are geared towards stable and steady progress, making her a reliable partner for longer voyages. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of 0.30, while not exceptionally high, contributes to a stable platform, allowing the boat to stand up to a reasonable breeze, aligning with Gulfstar's reputation for building cruising boats "capable upwind". Overall, the sailing press generally provided positive reviews, commending both the interior and performance of the Gulfstar 50.

Accommodations and Layout

The Gulfstar 50 is renowned for its generous and well-appointed interior, a key selling point for a vessel often destined for extended cruising or charter operations. The sailing press frequently lauded its interior layout. These boats typically feature dark teak interiors, with joinery that has been noted to rival the quality of other reputable manufacturers of the era.

A popular layout, particularly for those originally designed for charter, offers a three-stateroom configuration. This often includes a spacious, private master stateroom located aft, complete with an ensuite head, accessible from the center cockpit. The forward areas commonly feature a V-berth or another stateroom, a second head, a comfortable salon, and a well-equipped galley. The emphasis on spaciousness and multiple private cabins made the Gulfstar 50 particularly attractive for families or groups, supporting its role as a comfortable liveaboard or long-distance cruiser.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gulfstar 50 frequently highlight its robust construction and comfortable motion as primary strengths, affirming its suitability as a "bluewater boat". Many consider it an "affordable big boat," offering a cost-effective entry into long-distance cruising. The enduring presence of these yachts decades after their original production is a testament to the lasting quality of Vince Lazzara's designs and their sustained appeal in the marine industry. While older models may require significant updates and ongoing maintenance, their solid fiberglass hulls and fundamental design make them a viable and respected choice for those willing to invest in a classic cruising platform. The active community surrounding these vessels further attests to their lasting legacy.