Sundeer 56 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Sundeer 56 entered production in 1994 and continued until 1997, built in the USA by TPI Composites. It emerged as a slightly shortened version of its larger sibling, the Sundeer 60, sharing the same fundamental design principles. Steve Dashew's overarching design philosophy for the Sundeer series emphasized creating the ultimate world-circling cruiser, focusing on long, narrow, and fast hulls optimized for efficient long-distance cruising in comfort and safety. This approach aimed to deliver vessels capable of reliable global circumnavigation with a manageable crew.

During this era, TPI Composites, originally known as Tillotson-Pearson, Inc., was at the forefront of marine composite construction. The company was celebrated for its pioneering adoption and refinement of the Seemann Composites Resin Infusion Molding Process (SCRIMP), a vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding technique. This advanced manufacturing method allowed TPI to produce stronger, lighter, and more durable hulls with consistent quality, a significant advantage for both performance-oriented and robust cruising yachts like the Sundeer 56. Though built on a semi-custom basis, leading to minor differences between individual yachts, the Sundeer 56 also offered variations in mast size and foretriangle arrangements to suit different sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.57, the Sundeer 56 exhibits characteristics of a performance-oriented cruiser, suggesting good responsiveness and commendable performance even in lighter air. This ratio indicates that the boat can carry its sail area effectively, contributing to its reputation as a "fast cruising sloop." Its displacement to length ratio of around 197 is on the lighter side for a vessel of its impressive 56-foot waterline length, aligning with Dashew's emphasis on efficient hulls that are not excessively heavy, allowing for higher average speeds during extended passages.

The ballast to displacement ratio, at approximately 0.289, indicates that a significant portion of the Sundeer 56's stability comes from its hull form and generous beam rather than an extremely heavy keel. This design choice typically contributes to a more comfortable motion in a seaway, a crucial characteristic for a dedicated offshore passagemaker. Owners and reviewers describe the Sundeer 56 as a strongly built and well-thought-out vessel, making it an excellent choice for those aspiring to sail around the world.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Sundeer 56 is specifically designed for practical, comfortable, and durable long-term cruising. It typically features a deck saloon layout, which provides excellent natural light and panoramic views from within the main living area. Descriptions highlight a generous main salon, a well-arranged galley equipped with all necessary facilities, and a spacious heads/shower room. While specific details can vary due to the semi-custom nature of its construction, the overall emphasis is on creating a livable and functional space conducive to extended periods at sea for a couple or family. Storage is typically ample, and ventilation is well-considered to ensure comfort in various climates.