Gunboat 55 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Gunboat 55 entered production in 2015, marking the final new model from Peter Johnstone's tenure before the company's financial restructuring and subsequent acquisition by Grand Large Yachting in 2016. During this period, Gunboat had shifted its production for models like the 55 to a new facility in North Carolina, USA, 16]. Nigel Irens’ design philosophy for the Gunboat 55 was rooted in a "less-is-more" concept, focused on maximizing living area for owner/operators while ensuring ultimate performance. The core principle was to create a vessel capable of sailing close to wind speed, blending the build quality of an ocean racer with the amenities of a luxurious cruiser. True to Gunboat's ethos, weight saving was a crucial design element, utilizing advanced carbon composite construction for the hull and deck 2, 3, Builder article. While the design targeted a lightweight 9.5 tons, some reports indicate that early production models ended up heavier, requiring adjustments such as the addition of two feet to the waterline to compensate for hull trim. No distinct MkI or MkII variations were widely noted during its brief production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Gunboat 55 is unequivocally engineered for speed and exhilarating performance. With a reported sail area of 2,056 square feet and a displacement of 27,558 pounds, its Sail Area to Displacement ratio stands at a very high 35.85. This ratio indicates exceptional light-air performance and the ability to generate significant speed even in gentle breezes. Its Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at a remarkably low 66.85, further solidifies its status as a light, performance-oriented vessel, designed to cut through water with minimal resistance.

Anecdotal reports from sea trials consistently praise the Gunboat 55's speed and handling. In moderate winds, it has been observed to average 10-11 knots at just under 40 degrees apparent wind angle, even reaching up to 13 knots when slightly cracking off. Described as a "rocketship," the catamaran's design, which includes daggerboards, significantly enhances its upwind performance. Owners and testers alike note its ability to fly across the water, offering thrilling performance while also being set up for ease of single-handed sailing. The design by Nigel Irens redefined parameters for fast cruising catamarans, showcasing a balance of curvaceous elegance and muscular performance, even in challenging conditions with winds exceeding 20 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The Gunboat 55 redefines the relationship between onboard accommodations and deck layout, offering spacious and well-appointed living areas within its high-performance hull design. With a generous headroom of 6.5 feet in both the salon and hulls, the interior feels open and airy notes]. Typical layouts feature a two-stateroom configuration, often placing the owner's quarters in the port hull and a large double cabin in the starboard hull, each accompanied by a roomy heads compartment with large showers and electric freshwater facilities.

The interior reflects Gunboat's commitment to luxurious appointments and quality materials, leveraging its advanced carbon fiber construction to create a sophisticated and robust environment, 7, 17]. The large, open saloons are a signature feature, providing ample space for relaxation and entertaining, while well-appointed cabins ensure comfort during extended cruises. The design prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics, with meticulous attention to detail in its finish quality.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gunboat 55 often laud its thrilling performance, elegant design, and the ease with which it can be sailed, even single-handedly. The brand has cultivated a loyal following, with many owners feeling part of a distinctive "Gunboat family". This strong community aspect is a testament to the unique experience the boats offer.

However, the Gunboat 55's production era was not without its challenges. The model was, at times, referred to as "the albatross that sank the original Gunboat," alluding to the financial difficulties faced by the company during its development and initial production phase. Reports suggest that the Nigel Irens design failed to meet initial weight expectations, coming in heavier than the projected 9.5 tons, which contributed to some of the operational and financial pressures on the original builder. While the carbon fiber construction offers immense strength, it also demands specific maintenance considerations; some refit projects have highlighted issues like corroded deck hatches, which can signal deeper problems in carbon boats if not addressed promptly. Despite these historical challenges, the Gunboat 55 remains a highly sought-after catamaran known for its solid construction and a motion praised for its comfort in a seaway.