Irwin 52-2 Information, Review, Specs

The Irwin 52-2 emerged from a period of significant innovation at Irwin Yachts, a company known for its fiberglass sailing vessels under the guidance of Ted Irwin. Ted Irwin, a passionate competitive sailor and designer, began building boats at 15, eventually founding Irwin Yacht and Marine Corporation in St. Petersburg, Florida, in 1966. The company quickly became one of the largest sailboat producers in the United States, despite a history of corporate restructuring. During the production run of the Irwin 52-2 from 1982 to 1988, Irwin Yachts maintained its commitment to fiberglass construction, a material that had become standard in the industry.

Ted Irwin's design philosophy was notably diverse, catering to both racing enthusiasts and the burgeoning Caribbean yacht charter market. While some of his designs, like the Irwin 42 "Razzle Dazzle," demonstrated racing prowess, a significant portion of the company's output, including larger models like the 52-2, emphasized comfort, practicality, and luxury for extended cruising and liveaboard lifestyles. The Irwin 52-2 is recognized as a Mark II version of the Irwin 52, with significant design changes and upgrades implemented in 1982. These Series II boats notably featured updated interior layouts, offering more flexibility compared to earlier models.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Irwin 52-2, with its substantial length overall of 52 feet and a waterline length of 46 feet, is designed for steady and comfortable progress offshore. Its displacement of 44,500 pounds, combined with a calculated displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 204, suggests a moderate-weight vessel for its size, indicating a balance between carrying capacity and performance. While not a dedicated light-air performer, its sail area to displacement ratio of about 15.4 suggests it will move well in moderate to strong breezes.

The boat's ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 36.18% (based on a reported ballast of 16,100 lbs for the Irwin 52) indicates a moderately stable and stiff platform, capable of standing up to a good amount of wind. Owners often report being pleasantly surprised by the sailing qualities of the Irwin 52, finding it comfortable and capable even in challenging conditions, such as 40 knots of wind and 8-foot seas. The center-cockpit design of the Irwin 52 was considered innovative for its time, contributing to a secure feeling underway. Overall, the design ratios collectively describe the Irwin 52-2 as a stout, stable, and comfortable offshore cruising yacht, well-suited for long passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The Irwin 52-2 is particularly celebrated for its expansive and inviting interior, a hallmark of Ted Irwin's focus on liveability. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the boat's generous beam of 15.33 feet allows for considerable interior volume and comfortable living spaces. Irwin Yachts were known for offering flexible or various interior layouts, especially in their larger models, allowing for variations in berth arrangements.

Typically, the Irwin 52-2 features a spacious deck-saloon configuration, which was a forward-thinking design concept that many modern cruisers now seek. Reviews and owner accounts suggest common layouts include a large master stateroom, often aft, with an ensuite head, alongside a comfortable salon, a well-appointed galley, and additional cabins forward for guests or crew. The finish quality and materials generally emphasize practicality and comfort for extended periods aboard, aligning with Irwin's reputation for producing practical and livable boats for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Irwin 52-2 consistently praise its solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway, making it a favored choice for bluewater cruising and liveaboard lifestyles. Many appreciate the spaciousness and the value offered by these older, well-built vessels. The active online community of Irwin owners further underscores the enduring appeal and practicality of these boats, providing valuable resources and support.

However, like any vessel of its age, the Irwin 52-2 can present common maintenance considerations. Some owners have noted that the original deck fittings can develop leaks over time, requiring re-bedding. Variations in construction quality have also been mentioned by some owners, suggesting that thorough surveys are crucial when considering a purchase. Despite these typical age-related issues, the Irwin 52-2 remains a popular choice for those seeking a capable, comfortable, and well-designed cruising sailboat at an accessible price point, often serving as a strong candidate for restoration or repowering projects.