Seamaster 47 Information, Review, Specs

As a product of Seamaster Ltd., established by Dick Sparrow in Great Dunmow, Essex, the Seamaster 47 benefits from a legacy rooted in fiberglass construction. Seamaster Ltd. was an early proponent of fiberglass in boatbuilding, a material that allowed for the production of durable and accessible vessels. The company, which operated from 1955 until 1981, was known for creating boats with robust construction and practical designs, featuring spacious cockpits and comfortable cabins ideal for family cruising and longer voyages. While specific design philosophies for the 47-foot model are not extensively documented through search, its ketch rig suggests a design emphasis on versatile sail plans and manageable sail area for offshore conditions. Information regarding significant variations in the Seamaster 47's production run, such as MkI or MkII versions, or tall rig options, is not readily available.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seamaster 47 is characterized by a design prioritizing stability and a comfortable motion over high performance. With a displacement of 27,308 pounds over a waterline length of 34.0 feet, its displacement-to-length ratio is approximately 310.17. This high ratio indicates a heavy, full-bodied cruiser, suggesting a deliberate design choice for seaworthiness in challenging conditions. The sail area-to-displacement ratio, based on a calculated sail area of 615 square feet, is approximately 116.2. This relatively low ratio indicates that the Seamaster 47 is an "underpowered" vessel, meaning it will likely perform better in moderate to strong winds and might struggle in very light air.

Further supporting its emphasis on stability, the Seamaster 47 features a ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 32.2% (8,808 lbs of ballast in a 27,308 lb displacement). This, combined with its heavy displacement, contributes to its "reasonably stable" and "stiff" nature, suggesting it stands up well to a breeze and offers a comfortable ride. The boat also boasts an "excellent righting capability if capsized," underscoring its robust and forgiving nature for offshore passages. Its hull speed is estimated at 7.81 knots, a typical figure for a heavy displacement cruiser of its length.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior layouts and specific headroom figures for the Seamaster 47 are not widely documented, it is built with a fiberglass balsa core hull and deck. Consistent with Seamaster Ltd.'s general design philosophy, the 47-foot model would have been intended to offer comfortable and practical living spaces. Seamaster boats were generally known for providing "spacious cockpits and comfortable cabins," making them appealing for extended stays on the water. The boat is equipped for long-distance cruising with a significant water capacity of 200 gallons and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons, powered by a single 62 HP Perkins 154 diesel engine.

Owner's Perspectives

While specific owner reviews or common problems pertaining solely to the Seamaster 47 are not extensively detailed in general online resources, the broader Seamaster brand has a dedicated community. The Seamaster Club, established in 1992, serves as an active hub for owners of Seamaster vessels. This self-help group fosters camaraderie and provides a vital forum for support and technical assistance among enthusiasts, ensuring the longevity and continued enjoyment of these classic British boats. Owners often praise the robust construction and practical design inherent in Seamaster vessels, characteristics that contribute to their enduring appeal decades after production ceased in 1981.