Condor 55 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Condor 55 behaves with the agility of a large dinghy but the stability of a keelboat, a characteristic of the "Wanderjolle" (touring dinghy) philosophy popular in Germany. The boat features a fractional sloop rig with a relatively tall mast (8.65 meters), allowing it to perform admirably in light to moderate air. Its performance is highly dependent on its ballast configuration; early models produced prior to 1978 featured a 200 kg keel, which was found to have limited righting capability in heavy gusts. Following a critical review in the German magazine Yacht (Issue 19/1977), the ballast was increased to 278 kg to ensure better capsize recovery and stiffness.

With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the lighter side of the cruiser-racer spectrum, the Condor 55 is responsive to trim and tracks well even in choppy inland waters. It was offered with either a lifting keel (Hubkiel) or a swing keel (Schwenkkiel). The lifting keel version is widely considered the superior performer for windward work, as the vertical orientation of the foil provides better lift and less leeway. Owners often describe the handling as "forgiving," though the boat's flat hull sections mean it can slam in short, steep waves if not driven with sufficient heel to present the V-section of the bow to the water.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Condor 55 is remarkably efficient for a vessel measuring just 5.5 meters in length. It is configured to sleep four adults, though in practice it is best suited for a couple or a young family. The layout consists of a classic V-berth in the bow and two narrow quarter berths that extend aft under the cockpit seats. Storage is found beneath the cushions and in small side pockets along the hull.

Materials are typical for the era, featuring a mix of molded fiberglass liners and teak trim. One of the model's most distinctive features is the "lifting hatch" (Klappluk), which allows the cabin roof to be raised slightly while at anchor, providing much-needed ventilation and a marginal increase in headroom. The headroom remains limited to approximately 1.20 meters, meaning most tasks below deck are performed while seated. Throughout its production at Albatros Boats, the model saw several luxury variations, often designated as the "Luxus" or "S" models, which featured upgraded upholstery and plexiglass companionway boards instead of the original wood.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspection on the mechanical and structural components that tend to age poorly on 1970s-era GRP hulls.

• Keel Lifting Mechanism: On models equipped with the Hubkiel (lifting keel), the internal winch and cable system must be inspected for corrosion. A seized keel or a frayed cable can be a significant safety hazard and a difficult repair.
• Ballast Verification: It is crucial to determine if the boat is a pre-1978 or post-1978 model. The later models with the 278 kg ballast are significantly more stable and held in higher regard on the used market.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many sandwich-construction decks of this age, the Condor 55 can develop soft spots, particularly around the mast foot and the chainplates. These are often caused by water ingress through poorly bedded hardware.
• Window and Hatch Seals: The original rubber gaskets for the side windows and the forward hatch are prone to UV degradation. Leaks in these areas can lead to mold in the interior liners and rot in any wood trim.
• Trailer Alignment: Because the hull is quite flat and wide, the boat requires a well-fitted trailer. Improperly placed rollers or bunks can cause "oil-canning" (flexing) of the hull over time.

Community & Resources

The Condor 55 enjoys a dedicated following in Northern and Central Europe. Technical resources and historical documentation are often maintained by German sailing collectives. While there is no longer a single active manufacturer's association, the boat is a frequent subject of technical discussion on German-language sailing portals and local yacht clubs where "Stöberl-Rissen" (Stöberl designs) are celebrated for their longevity.

The Verdict

The Condor 55 is an excellent entry-level cruiser for sailors who value portability and simplicity over luxury.

Pros:

• Easily trailable behind most mid-sized vehicles.
• High stability-to-weight ratio in post-1978 models.
• Innovative lifting hatch design improves ventilation in a small cabin.
• Robust GRP construction that stands up well to decades of use.

Cons:

• Very limited headroom (less than 4 feet).
• Early models (pre-1978) lack sufficient ballast for challenging coastal conditions.
• Interior can feel cramped for more than two adults on multi-day trips.