Hudson Force 50 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Hudson Force 50 began in 1974, emerging from the Ta Chiao shipyard, which also built boats under the Hudson Custom Boats and Cheoy Lee names. Ta Chiao, founded in Kaohsiung around 1960, transitioned from wooden fishing boats to fiberglass construction in 1965, becoming a pioneer among Taiwanese builders. This foundational experience in robust construction translated directly into the Force 50, which benefited from the builder's reputation for meticulous attention to manufacturing processes and solid fiberglass hulls.

The esteemed naval architect William Garden, known for his designs of full-keeled, heavy displacement yachts, lent his expertise to the Force 50, aiming to create a vessel capable of traversing oceans with confidence. The boat's long keel hull type further solidifies its design for stability and seaworthiness in demanding conditions. While the core design remained consistent, variations in cockpit and deck arrangements were available, and later models, such as the 1985 "Venice" design, featured a center cockpit and a three-stateroom layout, highlighting the builder's flexibility to cater to different cruising preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hudson Force 50, with its full keel and ketch rig, is engineered for stable and comfortable passage making rather than outright speed. Its heavy displacement of 52,000 lbs combined with a waterline length of 39 feet results in a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 391.27. This high ratio firmly places the Force 50 in the category of a very heavy, traditional cruiser, emphasizing its capacity to carry stores and withstand heavy seas.

The ballast-to-displacement ratio stands at approximately 0.21, reflecting a design philosophy prioritizing a comfortable motion at sea over extreme stiffness in heavy winds. With a reported sail area to displacement ratio of 10.5, the Hudson Force 50 is generally considered to be somewhat underpowered, suggesting it performs best in moderate to strong breezes and benefits from engine assistance in lighter conditions. The ketch rig, however, offers versatile sail plans, allowing for easier handling and improved stability, particularly when sailing downwind or on a broad reach, by breaking down the total sail area into smaller, more manageable units. Owners often describe the boat as having a solid and comfortable motion in a seaway, reinforcing its reputation as a capable offshore vessel.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed for comfort during extended periods at sea, the Hudson Force 50 offers spacious accommodations that typically feature a classic and warm aesthetic, often enhanced by luxurious teak woodwork throughout the interior. The interior layout of these vessels varies, with some featuring a deck saloon configuration that includes an L-shaped galley and an interior helm station in the pilot saloon. This setup provides good visibility and a comfortable, protected steering position.

Typical arrangements often include multiple cabins, offering ample sleeping quarters. Some models feature three staterooms, appealing to those seeking more private spaces or accommodating larger crews. Headroom is generous, generally ranging from 6'3" to 6'5", providing comfortable standing room throughout much of the interior. Storage capacity is significant, designed to support long-distance cruising with provisions and gear. While specific details on ventilation are not consistently available, the overall design prioritizes livability and comfort for full-time liveaboards or extended voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hudson Force 50 consistently laud its solid construction and robust nature, highlighting its reliability as a bluewater cruiser capable of taking on challenging ocean conditions. The spacious interiors and classic teak finishes are frequently appreciated, contributing to a comfortable and timeless liveaboard experience. Many owners express satisfaction with the vessel's ability to maintain a comfortable motion even in rough seas, a testament to its heavy displacement and full-keel design.

However, as with any vessel of its vintage, discussions among owners often touch upon common maintenance requirements. While not unique to the Force 50, older boats may require attention to original deck fittings to prevent leaks, and routine structural checks are advised due to age. Despite these potential upkeep demands, the enduring presence of Hudson Force 50s on the brokerage market and active owner communities underscore a lasting appreciation for these well-built, ocean-ready yachts.