Farr 50 Information, Review, Specs

The vessel’s pedigree is rooted in the same design office that dominated the Whitbread Round the World Race, and that DNA is evident in its balanced proportions and efficient foil shapes. While primarily associated with BSI Marine, the Farr 50 shares a design philosophy and many construction hallmarks with its larger siblings, such as the Farr 56 and the Farr 63, which were built to similarly exacting Swedish standards.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Farr 50 are defined by its stiffness and its ability to maintain momentum in a wide range of sea states. With a high-aspect-ratio fin keel and a deep, balanced spade rudder, the boat offers a level of responsiveness more commonly associated with performance sloops than with pilot house cruisers. The design features a powerful sail plan that, according to technical summaries from Farr Yacht Design, allows for exceptional upwind performance and tight tacking angles.

In heavy weather, the hull’s moderate beam and relatively low center of gravity—aided by a significant lead ballast casting—ensure a predictable, "sea-kindly" motion. Unlike heavier displacement cruisers that might plow through waves, the Farr 50 is designed to lift and plane more readily, reducing the loads on the rig and the crew. Handling is further simplified by the common inclusion of hydraulic or electric furling systems, though the boat remains communicative enough to be enjoyed by an active helmsman.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Farr 50 is centered around its signature raised saloon, which provides 270-degree visibility from the seated position. This "deck saloon" configuration is not merely an aesthetic choice; it serves as a functional watch-keeping station during inclement weather. The layout typically features three cabins, including a voluminous master suite aft that utilizes the full beam of the boat, often incorporating a centerline queen berth and an en-suite head with a separate shower stall.

Construction materials usually consist of high-grade Swedish joinery, with mahogany or teak veneers finished to a satin sheen. Because these vessels were often built to order, small variations in the galley configuration and the forward guest cabins exist. Its sibling, the Farr 56, offered a similar aesthetic but provided the extra length required for a fourth cabin or a dedicated crew workspace, making the 50 the preferred choice for couples or small families who intend to handle the boat without professional help.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Farr 50 with a focus on its complex mechanical and hydraulic systems, which are integral to its ease of use but require rigorous maintenance.

• Hydraulic System Integrity: Many Farr 50s are equipped with extensive hydraulic systems for furling and winches. Inspectors should check for "creep" in the furlers and signs of fluid degradation or manifold leaks, which can be costly to rectify.
• Teak Deck Condition: Typical of Swedish builds from the late 1990s and early 2000s, the teak decks are often thick but may be reaching the end of their service life if they have been aggressively sanded or poorly maintained. Check for failing caulking and potential moisture intrusion around deck fittings.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: Due to the high loads generated by the balanced spade rudder, the bearings can develop play over time. A thorough "shake test" during haul-out is essential to ensure the steering remains precise.
• Chainplate Inspection: As a high-performance cruiser, the rig loads are substantial. It is advised to inspect the stainless steel chainplates and the surrounding composite structures for any signs of stress cracking or water ingress that could compromise the laminate.

Community & Resources

The primary resource for technical data and original design intent remains the Farr Yacht Design archives, which provide access to sail plans and stability data for the various 50-foot iterations. Owners of the BSI-built models often engage with the broader community of Swedish yacht owners, sharing technical advice on systems common to Baltic-built vessels.

The Verdict

The Farr 50 is a rare example of a pilot house yacht that prioritizes the "sailing" in "sailing yacht," offering a level of performance that few other cruisers in its class can match.

Pros

• Exceptional speed and pointing ability for a cruising yacht.
• High-quality Swedish construction and joinery.
• True 360-degree visibility from the interior saloon.
• Well-balanced steering and a predictable motion in heavy seas.

Cons

• Complexity of onboard hydraulic and electrical systems requires a vigilant maintenance schedule.
• Relatively deep draft may limit access to some shallow cruising grounds.
• Higher price point on the pre-owned market due to the designer’s prestige and build quality.