Wasa Atlantic 51 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Wasa Atlantic 51 began its production run in 1983, emerging from the Södertälje, Sweden, shipyard of Wasa Yachts. Wasa Yachts, known for its "characteristic for Scandinavia high quality work" and dedication to robust construction, ensured that the Atlantic 51 adhered to their philosophy of crafting reliable vessels built to stand the test of time. Leif Ängermark's design ethos for the Atlantic 51 aimed to create a yacht that was "slim, well-balanced, and easy to handle even in stronger winds," making it suitable for demanding offshore conditions and ocean exploration. While specific variations like a MkI or MkII were not prominently noted, the model was offered with a tall fractional rig, providing significant sail area. Production of the Wasa Atlantic 51 continued for several years, with examples still launching in the late 1980s and remaining actively sailed today.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 50 feet and a waterline length exceeding 42 feet, the Wasa Atlantic 51 presents a formidable profile. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.76 suggests a well-balanced performer, capable of generating good speed across a range of wind conditions, rather than being solely optimized for light air. The yacht's ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.37 indicates a moderate level of stability, allowing it to stand up to a decent breeze without becoming overly tender, contributing to a comfortable motion offshore. Furthermore, its displacement to length ratio of approximately 295 (calculated using LWL) positions it as a yacht with substantial displacement relative to its waterline, characteristic of a heavier, more traditional cruiser prioritizing seaworthiness and comfort over extreme light-displacement racing. Despite this, owners and reviewers praise its "excellent sailing qualities," noting that it sails "best and most beautifully in upwind conditions," a testament to its efficient hull form and powerful fractional rig. Its balanced design makes it manageable even in stronger winds, a crucial attribute for a vessel intended for ocean passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Wasa Atlantic 51 is characterized by a classic teak finish, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Designed for comfortable cruising, the typical layout includes a spacious saloon, three cabins, and a dedicated toilet room, offering up to six standard berths with the potential for two additional. The interior is described as nicely appointed, featuring essential amenities such as a well-equipped galley and a functional navigation station. Access to the engine room is provided, facilitating maintenance. The design aims to maximize livable space, providing ample room for extended stays aboard, although specific details on headroom and storage capacity vary between individual yachts. Overall, the accommodations reflect the Wasa Yachts' commitment to quality and functionality, catering to the needs of cruising sailors.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally regard the Wasa Atlantic 51 as a "cool and well built boat," a testament to Wasa Yachts' reputation for solid construction. The enduring quality means that even decades after their launch, these yachts are still actively sailed. Many owners appreciate the yacht's performance, particularly its capabilities as a high-performance racer-cruiser suitable for ocean exploration. However, as with any vessel of its age, ownership may involve maintenance and refit projects. Some instances of interior delamination have been noted, requiring attention. Additionally, the yacht's tall fractional mast, while beneficial for sailing performance, has been mentioned as a potential consideration for those planning to navigate waterways with height restrictions, such as the Intracoastal Waterway. Despite these considerations, the Wasa Atlantic 51 continues to be a sought-after vessel for those valuing robust construction, comfortable accommodations, and rewarding sailing performance.