Liberty 49 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Liberty 49 emerged from a lineage of well-regarded cruising yachts, specifically as an enlarged and extended evolution of the earlier Liberty 458. The Liberty 458, in turn, is thought to share its origins with the highly successful Peterson 44, a design by the influential American yacht designer Doug Peterson. While the Liberty 458 had contributions from designers Peter Hoyt and Doug Peterson, the Liberty 49 was specifically penned by Stan C. Huntingford, building upon these proven foundations.

During the production years of the Liberty 49 (1985-1989), its builder, Shing Sheng Fa Boat Building Co., Ltd. (SSF), was at the forefront of Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) construction in Taiwan. SSF had established itself with a commitment to durability and quality, exporting high-quality vessels globally for over a decade by the time the Liberty 49 entered production. Their ethos emphasized robust construction and a "one-stop" approach to design and manufacturing, ensuring that vessels like the Liberty 49 met rigorous standards for offshore capability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Liberty 49 is characterized by its heavy displacement and robust build, hallmarks of a serious bluewater cruiser. With a displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) of approximately 238.73, she falls into the heavier category for her size, indicative of a vessel designed for comfort and stability rather than pure speed. Her sail area-to-displacement ratio (SA/D) of around 16.76 suggests a balanced performance, capable in various wind conditions but particularly well-suited for making steady progress in a seaway rather than excelling in light airs.

The ballast-to-displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 32.63% points to a moderate level of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze without excessive heeling while ensuring a comfortable motion. Equipped with a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, the Liberty 49 offers good directional stability and control, crucial attributes for long-distance sailing. Owners consistently report that the Liberty 49 was built for and excels in long-distance bluewater cruising, safely delivering its crew across oceans.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed with liveaboard comfort and extended cruising in mind, the Liberty 49 offers a notably spacious interior, an improvement over its predecessor, the Liberty 458. While specific detailed layouts can vary between individual boats, the ample beam of 14 feet and generous displacement typically translate into substantial living spaces below deck.

Expect a layout conducive to long voyages, often featuring a comfortable salon, a well-equipped galley, and multiple private cabins for crew and guests. The design priorities for a vessel of this type and era would include good ventilation, ample storage for provisions and gear, and sturdy, sea-kindly finishes. The overall design intent was to provide an interior that supports life at sea, making her an ideal choice for those planning to live aboard or undertake extensive ocean passages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Liberty 49 consistently praise its suitability for its intended purpose: serious bluewater cruising. The vessel's robust construction and ability to safely navigate challenging ocean conditions are frequently highlighted as primary strengths. Many owners appreciate the generous interior volume, which makes the Liberty 49 a comfortable liveaboard platform for extended periods. The boat's design and build quality from Shing Sheng Fa contribute to a sense of security and reliability that is highly valued by those undertaking long-distance voyages.