Dickerson 50 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The design influence of Scott Kaufman is evident in the Dickerson 50's underwater profile. Unlike the traditional full keels of the early Dickerson "Simplissima" line, the 50 utilizes a moderate fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder. This configuration balances the directional stability required for blue-water voyaging with the maneuverability needed for tight quarters. Owners often report that the vessel tracks with remarkable precision, a testament to the hull's balanced lines and the designer’s pedigree in performance cruising.

While technical data from the Dickerson Owners Association suggests a heavy displacement hull, the boat is surprisingly nimble in light air when compared to its smaller siblings like the Dickerson 41. The sail plan—often configured as a cutter or ketch—allows for a versatile range of "gears," enabling the crew to maintain speed in heavy weather by reefing down while keeping the center of effort low. The Dickerson 50 feels "stiff" under sail, resisting excessive heeling thanks to a generous ballast-to-displacement ratio, which translates to a more comfortable motion for long-passage making.

Interior Comfort & Variations

As the flagship, the Dickerson 50 offered a level of interior volume and customization that was unavailable in the smaller 35 and 37 models. The cabinetry is a hallmark of the Dickerson legacy, typically finished in high-grade teak or mahogany with the meticulous joinery one would expect from a builder with roots in wooden boat construction. Most hulls feature a spacious center-cockpit layout, which allows for a sprawling master aft cabin with a private head and standing headroom.

The main salon is characterized by a "social" layout, often featuring a large U-shaped settee and a dedicated navigation station that reflects the boat's intended purpose as a serious offshore voyager. Variations exist between hulls, as Dickerson was known to accommodate owner requests for specific galley configurations or additional bunk space. The use of balsa coring in the deck not only provided structural rigidity but also offered superior thermal and acoustic insulation compared to solid glass, making the interior notably quieter while underway.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Dickerson 50 with a focus on the structural integrity of its cored components. While the transition to fiberglass under Ted Reed’s ownership brought modernization, the balsa-cored hulls and decks of the 1980s are susceptible to moisture intrusion if deck hardware was not properly bedded or if the hull suffered impact damage.

1. Deck and Hull Core: A professional moisture meter test and percussion sounding are mandatory. Focus specifically around chainplates, stanchion bases, and the windlass area where water migration can lead to core rot.
2. Rudder Bearing and Skeg: Given the age of these vessels, the skeg-hung rudder should be inspected for play in the bearings and any signs of delamination at the skeg-to-hull joint.
3. Chainplate Reinforcement: On early 1980s models, the points where the stays meet the hull should be checked for signs of stress or weeping, as the massive sail area of the 50 puts significant load on these attachment points.
4. Plumbing and Tankage: Many Dickerson 50s were fitted with aluminum tanks that may be reaching the end of their service life. Accessing these tanks for replacement can be a labor-intensive project requiring the removal of portions of the interior joinery.

Community & Resources

The primary repository for technical knowledge and historical documentation for this model is the Dickerson Owners Association. This group maintains an archive of original builder notes and organizes annual rendezvous in the Chesapeake Bay area. Because the Dickerson 50 was produced in limited numbers compared to the ubiquitous Dickerson 35, the association is an essential resource for finding specific sister-ship data and replacement part specifications.

The Verdict

The Dickerson 50 is a sophisticated, "built-for-purpose" blue-water cruiser that successfully bridged the gap between traditional aesthetics and modern performance. It remains a coveted find for sailors who value the craftsmanship of a small-scale American yard over the mass-produced alternatives of the same era.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior joinery and "old-world" craftsmanship.
• Designed by Kaufman & Assoc. for a balanced, predictable offshore motion.
• Flagship status provides superior living space and storage for circumnavigation.
• Strong support through a dedicated and active owners' association.

Cons:

• Balsa-cored hull and deck require vigilant maintenance to prevent moisture issues.
• Deep draft and large size may limit access to some shallower cruising grounds.
• Maintenance costs for a 50-foot vessel of this vintage can be significant.