Sun Fast 52 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The Jeanneau Sun Fast 52 was in production between 1992 and 1994, a period where Jeanneau, having embraced fiberglass construction since the late 1950s, continued to solidify its reputation for quality and innovation. The design was spearheaded by Philippe Briand, a pivotal figure in Jeanneau's design history since 1977. Briand's philosophy for the Sun Fast 52 aimed to combine genuine simplicity with real performance, a concept that required thousands of hours of dedicated work from his design team. Jeanneau's manufacturing ethos during this era emphasized creating "liveable boats" with clever layouts and comfortable amenities, balancing performance with onboard comfort, particularly for the cruising market. Notably, the Sun Fast 52 was offered with a shallow draft version, and some hulls featured Kevlar reinforcement to enhance impact resistance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sun Fast 52, with its masthead sloop rig and fin keel with bulb and spade rudder, is engineered for spirited performance. Its sail area to displacement ratio, calculated at approximately 19.94, indicates a design well-suited for good performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions, suggesting it can capture and convert even subtle breezes into motion. With a ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.3865, the boat offers a respectable degree of stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up to a fair amount of wind while maintaining an enjoyable motion. Furthermore, its displacement to length ratio of roughly 147.5 places it in the category of lighter, more performance-oriented vessels for its size. As a racer-cruiser, the Sun Fast 52 is designed to be responsive and engaging to sail, a characteristic highlighted by its inclusion in the Sun Fast range, which prioritizes speed and dynamic sailing experiences. Owners have noted that despite its substantial 51-foot length, the Sun Fast 52 can be rigged for single-person sailing operations, underscoring its design for ease of handling.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior dimensions are not extensively detailed, the Jeanneau Sun Fast 52 is designed with comfortable cruising in mind, aligning with Jeanneau's philosophy of creating "liveable boats". Reviews and listings indicate that the yacht typically features a layout providing three double cabins, allowing for generous sleeping accommodations for up to eight individuals. Jeanneau is known for its pure, modern lines and clever layouts that maximize space and comfort. Although the exact materials used are not specified, Jeanneau generally employs quality finishes and materials to create a comfortable and inviting onboard living experience.