North Star 500 Information, Review, Specs

The North Star 500 emerged during a significant period for its builder. Production commenced in 1973, under the banner of Northstar Yachts Ltd., a company that had evolved from Hughes Boat Works after its acquisition by US Steel in 1969. During this era, Northstar Yachts continued the legacy of commissioning designs from Sparkman & Stephens, a firm renowned for its elegant and high-performance yachts. The design ethos of Sparkman & Stephens, as applied to the North Star 500 (S&S design #2135), focused on creating a competitive IOR 1/4 ton racer. These "ton" classes were popular international offshore racing categories, emphasizing performance within specific rating bands.

The builder, Northstar Yachts Ltd., maintained a reputation for strong construction and balanced sailing characteristics in their Sparkman & Stephens-designed models. The North Star 500, with its fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, exemplifies the design trends of the early 1970s, aiming for a blend of speed and control. Notably, the design also saw production in Finland under the name BLUE BIRD 25, underscoring its international appeal and the widespread recognition of its Sparkman & Stephens lineage.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 25 feet and a waterline length of just over 20 feet, the North Star 500 is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat [2,. Its masthead sloop rig provides a reported sail area of 289 square feet, contributing to its lively performance [1, 3,. The vessel's fin keel and skeg-hung rudder configuration are indicative of a design intended for responsive handling and good directional stability [3,.

Sailors often describe the North Star 500 as a reasonably good performer, particularly noted for its stability and stiffness, traits that instill confidence when sailing in varying conditions. With a calculated hull speed of 6.03 knots, it offers an engaging sailing experience whether engaged in club races, enjoying a day on the water, or embarking on a short cruise. The combination of its Sparkman & Stephens design and solid construction contributes to its reputation as a capable and balanced boat to sail.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications for the North Star 500 are not extensively documented, its design as a 1/4 ton racer/cruiser suggests a functional layout typical for its size and era. The boat is equipped with a galley, which would generally include basic amenities such as a sink and perhaps a small stove. Given its length, the interior likely features a V-berth forward for sleeping, a marine head, and a main salon with opposing settees that could serve as additional berths. Storage would be modest but adequate for weekend trips. The emphasis in these smaller IOR designs was often on maximizing interior volume within the rating rules, leading to clever use of space, though stand-up headroom throughout might be limited.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the North Star 500 frequently praise its inherent "solid" construction and the engaging sailing experience it offers. Many appreciate its classic lines and the enduring quality often associated with Sparkman & Stephens designs and the Canadian build quality from Northstar Yachts, 11]. It is often regarded as an excellent choice for those looking for a nimble club racer or a straightforward boat for weekend cruising. Owners consistently highlight the boat's capable performance, suggesting it delivers an enjoyable and rewarding experience for those who appreciate older fiberglass yachts. While specific common issues are not widely reported, the age of these vessels means typical maintenance considerations for older fiberglass boats, such as re-bedding deck fittings, are always a factor for owners.