Kelt 5.50 Information, Review, Specs

Kelt Marine, founded by Etienne Renault, rose to prominence in the European yachting scene by focusing on fiberglass construction, a material that revolutionized boat building with its durability and efficiency. The company, based in Vannes, France, was recognized for "precision craftsmanship and maritime passion," a commitment reflected even in their smaller models like the 5.50.

History and Design

The Kelt 5.50 was conceived and brought to market during a prolific period for Kelt Marine, with production commencing in 1976 and continuing until 1982. Designed by Gilles Ollier, the Kelt 5.50 aimed to offer a significantly more spacious hull design for a boat of its size, transforming what might typically be considered a large dinghy into a capable cabin cruiser. Kelt Marine's ethos during this era centered on producing practical, well-engineered sailboats that were easy to handle and appealed to a broad audience, including first-time boat buyers.

A key design feature of the Kelt 5.50 is its versatility in keel configuration. While primarily known for its lifting keel version, which offers a minimal draft of 0.98 feet for easy beaching and trailering, a fixed fin keel version with a draft of 2.46 feet was also available. This dual offering underscored the design's adaptability, catering to different sailing grounds and preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its modest length overall of 18.04 feet and a waterline length of 15.75 feet, the Kelt 5.50 is designed to deliver an engaging sailing experience. With a reported sail area of 182 square feet, she carries a generous sail plan for her size. The Kelt 5.50 is rigged as a fractional sloop, a common configuration for smaller performance-oriented boats, contributing to easier sail handling and improved upwind performance.

Owners and reviewers often describe the Kelt 5.50 as a responsive boat with good maneuverability, particularly the fin keel version, though it might have less directional stability than a long-keeled vessel. The lifting keel design, while sacrificing some internal space for the keel trunk, provides the flexibility to explore shallow waters. Anecdotal evidence suggests that while generally well-behaved, some owners have sought to fine-tune its upwind performance, indicating that like many small boats, proper trim and setup are key to optimizing its capabilities. Her hull speed is calculated at 5.32 knots, suggesting a lively performance for her size in various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Kelt 5.50, though compact, is designed for efficiency and offers surprising utility for a boat of its length. Gilles Ollier's design prioritized interior volume, giving the impression of a more spacious vessel. Typically, the layout includes a V-berth forward, which can serve as a sleeping area or additional storage. The main cabin usually features two settee berths that double as seating around a small table, making for a functional, if snug, salon. While specific headroom figures are not consistently documented, the design aims to maximize the usable space, making it suitable for short cruises and overnight stays. Storage is often found beneath berths and in small lockers. The overall finish is generally practical, utilizing fiberglass surfaces with some wood trim, in line with production boats of its era. Ventilation would typically rely on a forward hatch and possibly a companionway, common for boats of this size.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Kelt 5.50 often appreciate its solid construction and ease of maintenance, qualities inherent in Kelt Marine's manufacturing ethos. The boat's trailerability, particularly the lifting keel version, is a frequently cited strength, allowing owners to explore diverse cruising grounds and store the boat easily. The Kelt 5.50 is often praised for being a forgiving boat, making it a good choice for new sailors or those looking for a simple, low-maintenance vessel.

Common discussions among owners sometimes revolve around optimizing the boat's rigging and sail plan for specific performance goals, such as improving upwind ability. Like many older boats, routine maintenance issues such as re-bedding deck fittings or addressing minor leaks can arise, but these are generally considered manageable by a dedicated owner community. The enduring presence of Kelt 5.50s on the used market, with owners documenting renovations and sharing experiences on forums, speaks to their lasting appeal and durable construction.