Little Harbor 54 Information, Review, Specs

True to the Ted Hood design ethos, the Little Harbor 54 showcases a blend of innovative features and proven ocean-going characteristics. Little Harbor Yachts, founded by Hood in 1959, was renowned for its commitment to high-quality, semi-custom construction, integrating performance with comfort. The brand's focus on robust build quality and thoughtful design, often incorporating Hood's pioneering developments in sailmaking and hardware, positioned their yachts, including the 54, as premier vessels for blue water passages.

History and Design

Production of the Little Harbor 54 commenced in 1989, reflecting Ted Hood's ongoing commitment to designing capable cruising yachts. As a prominent figure in the marine industry, Hood's design philosophy for Little Harbor vessels typically emphasized moderate displacement, a low wetted-surface-to-sail ratio, and a tall rig to ensure impressive light-air speeds while maintaining blue water integrity. The construction of Little Harbor yachts, including the 54, primarily took place in Taiwan under Hood's close supervision, integrating design with production to ensure his vision was meticulously realized. Each vessel was semi-custom, allowing for owner input while upholding the brand's high standards of craftsmanship. While specific variations like a MkI or MkII designation are not widely noted for the 54, individual yachts often featured bespoke modifications based on owner preferences, such as the only aft-cockpit Little Harbor 54 built.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Little Harbor 54 is designed as a substantial blue water cruiser, evidenced by her calculated performance ratios. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 12.8, she presents as a powerful yacht intended to handle a range of conditions, though this ratio suggests she is not optimized for extreme light-air performance. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.304 indicates a comfortable motion at sea, leaning towards stability and comfort rather than extreme stiffness often found in dedicated racing yachts. The displacement to length ratio, calculated at approximately 346, clearly places the Little Harbor 54 in the heavy displacement category, signifying a robust and substantial vessel built for offshore strength and stability, rather than light-footed agility.

Anecdotal evidence and design philosophy point to the Little Harbor 54 being a well-balanced and easily handled vessel, even for short-handed sailing, a hallmark of Ted Hood's designs. Her centerboard keel, allowing for a variable draft between 6.3 feet and 12.1 feet, provides versatility for both shallow anchorages and enhanced upwind performance offshore. Owners often praise her ability to stand up to a breeze and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. Features like electric sail handling and a bow thruster further enhance her ease of operation, making her a manageable yacht despite her significant size.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Little Harbor 54 is crafted for luxurious and comfortable extended cruising, typically finished in a classic style, often described as Herreshoff style, which enhances the sense of space and light. While specific headroom figures vary, the design prioritizes a spacious and inviting atmosphere. The typical layout often features a cleverly arranged open-plan salon, galley, and navigation area, providing ample living space.

Accommodations generally include a generous master stateroom, frequently with a centerline queen-sized berth and a dedicated desk. Additional guest cabins, often including V-berths or Pullman berths, provide versatile sleeping arrangements. The joinery is typically of high quality, with rich wood trim, reflecting the custom craftsmanship Little Harbor was known for. Storage is usually abundant, catering to the needs of long-distance cruisers. Ventilation is well-considered, often augmented by air conditioning systems for comfort in various climates. The practical center cockpit design often integrates dining and lounging spaces, with electric winches conveniently located near the helm for ease of sail trimming.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Little Harbor 54 consistently praise the yacht's solid construction and its comfortable, secure motion in a seaway, reinforcing its reputation as a capable blue water cruiser. Many consider these vessels to be meticulously maintained and actively cruised, a testament to their original build quality and timeless designs. The enduring appeal of the Little Harbor 54 on the used boat market reflects the high regard owners have for these well-engineered and comfortable yachts.

While specific "common problems" are not frequently highlighted as systemic flaws, typical maintenance of a yacht of this caliber and age often involves refurbishments such as replacing headliner panels, updating interior fabrics, and maintaining teak decks. Owners often invest significantly in modernizing systems, indicating a dedication to preserving the yacht's value and usability. The community of Little Harbor owners is noted for cherishing these classic vessels, valuing the heritage of Ted Hood's design genius and the robust build quality that allows these boats to continue sailing worldwide.