Gulfstar 50 TM Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Gulfstar 50 TM emerged during a productive period for Gulfstar Yachts, a Florida-based builder founded in 1970 by Vince Lazzara, a pioneer in fiberglass boat construction. Production of the Gulfstar 50 model line began around 1975 and continued until 1980. During this era, Gulfstar evolved its design philosophy, moving beyond early scrutinies of workmanship to adopt a more "balanced approach" that led to improvements in construction and performance. The 50-footer, in particular, benefited from this shift, with Vince Lazzara aiming to produce high-quality, performance-oriented sailboats for cruising.

The Gulfstar 50 was available in various configurations, including as a sloop or ketch, and notably, the "TM" (Trunk Model) variant featured a distinct shorter cabin trunk and a flush foredeck, enhancing its aesthetics and utility for deck lounging or equipment stowage. This design element reflects a conscious effort to blend cruising comfort with practical liveaboard features, characteristic of Lazzara's approach to crafting dependable bluewater boats.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 50 feet and a displacement of 35,000 pounds, the Gulfstar 50 TM is undeniably a substantial vessel, designed to handle open ocean conditions with a comfortable motion. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 14.61 suggests that while not a light-air racer, she is well-suited for steady breezes, offering robust performance for a cruising boat of her size. This indicates a design priority on stability and power rather than nimble light-wind speed.

The boat's ballast to displacement ratio of 0.30, with 10,500 pounds of ballast, indicates a solid, if not exceptionally stiff, platform. While it may exhibit a degree of heel in stronger gusts, owners have noted its excellent righting capability, ensuring safety and confidence in challenging seas. The Gulfstar 50 TM features a fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that provides good directional stability and a balanced helm, making her manageable on long passages. However, given her substantial displacement, maneuvering a 50-foot vessel can be challenging for inexperienced crews, particularly in tight docking situations. Overall, the Gulfstar 50 TM is considered a capable bluewater cruiser, praised for its solid construction and comfortable ride.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gulfstar 50 TM is renowned for its generous accommodations and superior joinery, providing a comfortable and spacious living environment ideal for extended cruising or liveaboard life. While specific headroom figures are not available, the vessel is designed to maximize interior volume. Online reviews and owner descriptions frequently highlight a classic three-stateroom layout, which was a significant feature for a boat of its era.

Typically, the layout would include a spacious main salon, often with a large dinette and seating, a well-appointed galley designed for offshore cooking, and multiple private cabins, usually comprising a forward V-berth, an aft master cabin, and sometimes an additional guest cabin. Ample storage is usually integrated throughout the interior, catering to the needs of long-distance cruisers. The use of traditional marine materials, often featuring rich wood trim, contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ventilation is typically achieved through numerous hatches and portlights, ensuring comfort at anchor.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gulfstar 50 TM frequently praise its robust construction and its ability to handle demanding offshore conditions. Many consider it a reliable and comfortable long-distance cruiser, offering a solid platform for extended voyages at an accessible price point. The generous interior volume and well-thought-out accommodations are consistent highlights, providing ample living space for families or multiple crew members.

However, as with any vessel of its vintage, the Gulfstar 50 TM often requires a commitment to ongoing maintenance and potential refits. While the solid fiberglass hull is generally well-regarded, common issues that can arise in older vessels include leaks from original deck fittings, which may require re-bedding over time. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the enduring appeal and active community surrounding these older Gulfstar yachts attest to their lasting value and the sound designs conceived by Vince and Richard Lazzara., 9]