Beneteau 50 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing pedigree of the Beneteau 50 is rooted in Bruce Farr’s ability to balance a high-volume hull with a powerful sail plan. While it is undeniably a heavy-displacement cruiser—tipping the scales at approximately 30,000 pounds—it avoids the sluggishness often associated with boats of this volume. According to editorial analysis from Cruising World, the boat is a "solid performer" that excels in reaching conditions, where its long waterline and generous beam provide a stable platform that resists burying the rail.

The steering configuration was revolutionary for its time, featuring twin wheels that allowed for excellent visibility and a clear thoroughfare to the transom. Under sail, the boat tracks with a predictable, heavy-weather feel. Because the hull was designed to satisfy both the Mediterranean charter market and transatlantic delivery crews, it features a relatively high ballast ratio. This ensures that even when the masthead sloop rig is fully powered up, the boat maintains a comfortable heel angle. However, owners frequently note that the Beneteau 50 requires a breeze of at least 10–12 knots to truly come alive; in light air, the wetted surface area of the broad hull can make for slower progress without the assistance of an asymmetrical spinnaker or the engine.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Beneteau 50, styled by Armel Briand, is a masterclass in modular design, allowing the shipyard to offer an unprecedented number of layouts. The primary distinction among siblings is between the "Owner’s Version" and the "Charter Version." The Owner’s Version typically features a massive forward master suite with a centerline queen berth and a desk, while the Charter Version (often branded as the Beneteau 500 or the Moorings 505) splits this space into two separate symmetrical double cabins.

Materials consist largely of warm cherry-stained Douka wood and molded fiberglass liners that provide structural rigidity while being easy to maintain. A hallmark of the 50-foot hull is the longitudinal galley located to starboard, which offers vast counter space and remains functional even while the boat is heeled. The salon is characterized by a large U-shaped settee and a substantial navigation station that reflects the boat's offshore intentions. Most variants include four heads—one for each potential cabin—plus a dedicated crew cabin in the bow, accessible via a deck hatch, which is a rare find in boats of this size today.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their due diligence on a few specific areas common to Beneteaus of this vintage. While the hull itself is solid GRP, the internal structural grid (the "liner") is bonded to the hull; any signs of separation or "cracking" at the bond points, particularly around the mast step or keel bolts, should be scrutinized by a surveyor.

The teak decks were a standard feature on many Beneteau 50s, and given the age of these vessels, many are reaching the end of their service life. Inspection should look for thinning wood, failing caulk lines, and "popped" screws, as replacing a full teak deck on a 50-foot boat is a significant capital expense. Furthermore, the rudder bearings on this model are known to wear, leading to a "sloppy" feel at the twin wheels. Buyers should also inspect the engine's exhaust elbow and the seal of the saildrive (if equipped, though many utilize a traditional shaft drive) for signs of corrosion or leakage.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Beneteau 50 benefit from one of the largest and most active support networks in the maritime world. The Beneteau Owners Association provides a wealth of technical documentation, including original wiring diagrams and plumbing schematics that are essential for long-term maintenance. Because the 50 was a staple of the Moorings and Sunsail fleets in its early years, technical knowledge regarding the "500" and "505" variants is plentiful among Caribbean-based shipwrights and specialized forums.

The Verdict

The Beneteau 50 remains a gold standard for sailors seeking a voluminous, seaworthy yacht that can transition from a comfortable liveaboard platform to a serious blue-water passage-maker. While its size and complexity require a more rigorous maintenance schedule than smaller cruisers, its Bruce Farr-designed hull ensures it will continue to outpace more modern, lightly-built coastal cruisers when the conditions turn foul.

Pros

• Seaworthy Design: The Bruce Farr hull offers exceptional stability and predictable handling in heavy seas.
• Versatile Layouts: Available in 2, 3, 4, or 5-cabin configurations to suit diverse cruising needs.
• Modern Cockpit: The twin-wheel setup provides superior ergonomics and easy access to the swim platform.
• Strong Resale Value: A well-documented history and large production run ensure a steady market for parts and resale.

Cons

• Maintenance Intensive: Teak decks and aging systems on a 50-foot vessel require a significant annual budget.
• Light Air Sluggishness: Requires a substantial breeze to move effectively without the engine.
• Size Constraints: The 50-foot length and 15-foot beam can limit slip availability and increase docking fees in smaller marinas.