Schock 55 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The lineage of the Schock 55 traces back to an initial production of two vessels by Geraghty Marine in San Diego, California, between 1982 and 1989. W.D. Schock, a company celebrated for its commitment to quality fiberglass yachts and forward-thinking design, acquired the molds for the Nelson Marek 55. Under the W.D. Schock marque, two additional Schock 55s were built between 1990 and 1991. This short production window underscores the boat's rarity. The original design by Bruce Marek, a principal of the prolific Nelson Marek yacht design firm established in 1979, aimed to create a robust and performance-oriented vessel. W.D. Schock's enduring reputation for crafting well-regarded fiberglass sailboats, from racing dinghies to comfortable cruisers, ensured that these large vessels maintained the builder's standard for robust construction and craftsmanship.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Schock 55's design specifications translate into a qualitative understanding of its performance characteristics. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 28.10, the Schock 55 suggests strong performance, particularly in lighter air, indicating it can accelerate and maintain speed effectively. Its Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio, at about 0.4486, is relatively high, pointing to a stiff and stable platform well-equipped to stand up to significant wind and maintain its sail plan without excessive heeling. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 217.18 positions the Schock 55 as a performance-oriented cruiser, lighter than traditional heavy displacement yachts yet substantial enough for offshore capabilities. Anecdotal evidence suggests that at least one Nelson Marek 55 has been actively used for coastal racing, affirming its design as a racer.

Accommodations and Layout

Due to its limited production and the passage of time, detailed public information regarding the precise interior layout and accommodations of the Schock 55 is scarce. As a large performance yacht designed in the late 1980s and early 1990s, it would typically feature a spacious interior arrangement, likely including multiple cabins, a well-appointed salon, a functional galley, and a dedicated head compartment. While specific details on headroom, finish quality, or material choices are not readily available in general reviews, yachts of this caliber from builders like W.D. Schock typically featured durable fiberglass construction complemented by practical and often robust interior finishes, designed to withstand the rigors of performance sailing while providing a degree of comfort for extended periods aboard.