Gulfstar 50 Kth Information, Review, Specs

Gulfstar Yachts was founded in 1970 by Vince Lazzara, a notable pioneer in fiberglass boat construction who had previously co-founded Columbia Yachts., 6] Lazzara embarked on Gulfstar with a vision to create versatile and accessible cruising vessels. The Gulfstar 50 Kth, with its ketch rig, was designed by Lazzara himself, sometimes in collaboration with his son, Richard C. Lazzara, reflecting the family's deep involvement in the brand's designs., 15, 17]

The company's design philosophy evolved over its operational years. While some earlier models faced scrutiny regarding initial workmanship, later designs, including the Gulfstar 50, adopted a "balanced approach," leading to improvements in construction and performance. The Gulfstar 50 model proved to be one of the most popular boats built by the company, with 172 hulls launched over its production run. The "Kth" designation specifically refers to the ketch-rigged version of the Gulfstar 50, which was also available as a sloop.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 12.06, the Gulfstar 50 Kth is characterized as a heavy displacement cruiser. This ratio suggests that while she may not be a spirited performer in light airs, she is built for stability and comfort, particularly when carrying the provisions and gear common for long-distance cruising. The Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of 0.30 further indicates a moderate level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind without excessive heeling, contributing to a comfortable motion offshore. Her Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of around 250.37 firmly places her in the category of a moderately heavy cruiser, emphasizing seaworthiness and a solid feel over outright speed.

The Gulfstar 50 Kth is generally regarded as a capable cruising boat, with marine journalists like John Kretschmer having written positively about the ketch version. Despite her displacement, Gulfstar sailboats from this era, including the 50, became known for being capable upwind for cruising vessels., 10] The sail plan, in both ketch and sloop configurations, is not excessively large, contributing to manageable handling, although some suggest caution with roller-furling mainsails.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gulfstar 50 Kth is consistently praised as one of its most attractive features, known for its superior design centered on comfort and convenience. These vessels typically offer a remarkably spacious layout, often featuring three staterooms, a configuration that proved popular, especially for charter operations.

Owners can expect a well-appointed interior with a focus on livability. The galley and navigator's station are usually situated adjacent to the companionway, providing practical access and a central hub for onboard activities. While some earlier or charter-oriented Gulfstar models might have featured more utilitarian finishes, later vessels from the builder, including the 50, saw improvements in construction and the quality of interior materials, often incorporating wood trim alongside fiberglass elements., 8] Overall, the design prioritizes comfortable living spaces, ample storage, and good ventilation, making it a favored choice for those seeking a liveaboard or long-term cruising platform.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gulfstar 50 Kth frequently laud its solid construction and overall value as an accessible bluewater cruiser. Many attest to the enduring quality of these vessels, often expressing a willingness to undertake necessary repairs and upgrades to maintain their boats. This commitment stems from the boat's fundamental design strengths, which offer a comfortable motion in a seaway and a stable platform for extended voyages.

Despite their solid reputation, owners acknowledge that older vessels like the Gulfstar 50 Kth can come with certain "quirks and tolerable problems." Some points of consideration include the potential for original deck fittings to require re-bedding over time, and some ketch-rigged versions may have experienced issues with the deck core beneath the mast step. General maintenance and the cost of ownership for a 50-foot vessel are also common discussions among owners, highlighting that while the initial purchase price might be affordable, ongoing care is essential. Nevertheless, the active owner community and the continued presence of these yachts on the water decades after their construction are a testament to their lasting appeal and the robust foundation provided by Gulfstar Yachts.