Sailing Performance & Handling
The Cruiser 51 is a modern monohull that prioritizes predictability and ease of handling over aggressive racing metrics. With a displacement-to-length ratio that places it firmly in the heavy-cruising category, the boat relies on its significant sail area to maintain momentum in light air. Its Sail Area/Displacement ratio of approximately 20.3 suggests a boat that is more spirited than a traditional motorsailer but remains inherently stable. A critical design choice by Farr Yacht Design was the implementation of twin rudders, which Yachting World noted as essential for maintaining grip and control when the wide-stern hull begins to heel.
Under sail, the boat tracks with remarkable precision. The twin-rudder system ensures that even when the boat is pressed in a stiff breeze, the leeward rudder remains vertical and deep, preventing the "broaching" tendency often found in older, wide-stern designs with a single centerline rudder. According to reviews in Sail Magazine, the Cruiser 51 handles predictably under power as well, though the large lateral windage of the high-freeboard hull makes a bow thruster almost mandatory for tight-quarters maneuvering in Mediterranean-style mooring.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Cruiser 51, styled by Design Unlimited, is a masterclass in modularity. The vessel’s most notable technical achievement is the "Flex" cabin system. This allows the master cabin forward to be converted from a single, palatial suite into two smaller double cabins via a removable bulkhead system—a feature that allows owners to transition the boat from a private cruiser to a five-cabin charter layout in less than a day.
In the salon, the Cruiser 51 offers a linear galley to port and a large U-shaped seating area to starboard. The use of multiple deck hatches and large hull portlights ensures the space is flooded with natural light, a design priority that Cruising World highlighted when naming it a contender for boat of the year. The "Style" variant specifically elevated this experience with high-gloss finishes, upgraded upholstery, and a more robust galley island. Headroom is exceptional throughout, consistently exceeding 6'5" (2 meters), making it one of the most voluminous interiors in the 50-foot class.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Bavaria Cruiser 51 gained significant international acclaim shortly after its debut, being named a finalist for European Yacht of the Year and winning "Best Full-Size Cruiser" from Cruising World magazine in 2015. Its reputation as a reliable blue-water platform was further cemented by its frequent selection as the flagship vessel for major European charter fleets, such as Dream Yacht Charter and Sunsail, where it proved its durability under high-frequency use.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
While the Cruiser 51 is built to high production standards, prospective buyers should focus on several specific areas during survey:
- Rudder Bearings: The twin-rudder configuration places unique stresses on the steering linkages. Check for excessive play or "clunking" in the helm, which may indicate worn Jefa steering components or bushings.
- Saildrive Seal: Most units are equipped with a Volvo Penta engine and saildrive. The rubber diaphragm seal has a recommended replacement interval (typically 7 years); ensure this has been documented, especially on early 2014/2015 models.
- Deck Hardware Bedding: The large expansive deck has numerous mounting points for tracks and cleats. Surveyors often look for signs of moisture around the mid-ship cleats, as these take significant loads and can develop hairline fractures in the gelcoat if not properly backed.
- Electrical Systems: Later models utilized digital switching systems for cabin lights and pumps. Verify that the control panels are fully functional and that no "phantom" draws are occurring, which can plague older digital BUS systems.
Community & Resources
Owners of the Cruiser 51 are supported by the Bavaria Yacht Owners Association (BYOA), a prominent international group that maintains a technical wiki and organizes rallies. Additionally, the Farr Yacht Design office maintains archives for the "Design 694" (the internal designation for the Cruiser 51), providing a technical resource for owners seeking original structural or rigging specifications.
The Verdict
The Bavaria Cruiser 51 is a formidable long-distance cruiser that excels in volume, versatility, and stability. While its high freeboard and substantial displacement mean it will never be a light-air racer, it offers a level of comfort and safety that few other production boats in this price bracket can match.
Pros:
- Exceptional interior volume with the unique "Flex" modular cabin system.
- Superior handling in heavy air thanks to the Farr-designed hull and twin rudders.
- Massive, functional cockpit with an industry-leading fold-down swim platform.
Cons:
- High windage can make docking challenging in crosswinds without a thruster.
- Aesthetic is more "functional" than "sleek" due to the high freeboard.
- Standard deck hardware on base models may require upgrades for serious offshore voyaging.
