Standfast 50 Information, Review, Specs

The journey of the Standfast 50 began with its production start in 1980. The vessel emerged from Standfast Yachts, a builder established in 1970 by Frans Maas, who was already a recognized yacht designer. Maas founded the shipyard to ensure his designs were brought to life under his exacting standards, emphasizing meticulous craftsmanship and the integration of performance with comfort and safety. Standfast yachts, including the 50, were constructed primarily from fiberglass, a material chosen for its ability to replicate Maas's precise designs while maintaining structural integrity. The design philosophy of Frans Maas, which underscored elegant lines, robust construction, and superior sailing characteristics, is evident in the Standfast 50, which was built to be a "highest quality sailing yacht" and capable of being a "race winner." Production of the Standfast 50 continued until at least 1998, and likely ceased when Standfast Yachts concluded operations in 2008.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Standfast 50 is characterized by its balanced design ratios, indicative of a capable offshore cruiser. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 16.35, she possesses a respectable sail plan for her displacement, suggesting a solid performer in varied wind conditions. The Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio stands at about 28.20%. While this indicates a moderate amount of ballast relative to her total weight, Frans Maas's designs are generally noted for being incredibly sea-kindly and comfortable, implying a stable motion at sea despite a lower ballast ratio than some very stiff designs. Her Displacement to Length (Disp/Len) ratio is notably high, at around 348.11, categorizing her as a heavier, more traditional cruiser rather than a light-displacement racer. This heavy displacement contributes to a comfortable ride, particularly in a seaway, and robust construction suitable for long-distance cruising. The Standfast 50 boasts a theoretical hull speed of 8.27 knots, a respectable figure for a yacht of her length and displacement.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Standfast 50 is designed for comfort and practicality during extended voyages, consistent with her role as a long-distance cruising yacht. The interior joinery is typically crafted from teak, complemented by a classic teak and holly sole, contributing to a warm and traditional yachting ambiance. The layout generally features two private cabins, providing berths for six, with additional sleeping capacity in the saloon. The saloon itself forms a central living space, augmented by an open cockpit, promoting a connected indoor-outdoor feel. A dedicated navigation center is typically incorporated, providing a functional area for passage planning and monitoring. The vessel is equipped with substantial water capacity, holding 999 liters (263 US gallons or 219 imperial gallons), catering to the needs of a long-distance cruiser. While specific details on storage and ventilation vary by individual yacht, the overall design emphasizes a comfortable and functional living environment essential for extended time at sea.