Gallart 13.5 MS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Gallart 13.5 MS is a ketch-rigged vessel that prioritizes "seakeeping" in the truest sense of the word. With a displacement that often exceeds 15 tons when fully loaded, the boat possesses a high momentum that allows it to punch through choppy Mediterranean head seas without the hobby-horsing common in lighter yachts. Its performance is best described as steady and predictable rather than spirited. Under sail alone, the 13.5 MS requires a stiff breeze to come alive; in light airs, the heavy wetted surface area of its long-keel-inspired underbody typically necessitates the assistance of its powerful engine.

The ketch rig is a functional choice for this hull, allowing for a variety of sail combinations that keep the boat balanced in heavy weather. By flying the jib and the mizzen (the "jib and jigger" configuration), owners can maintain steerage and stability in gale-force conditions without overstressing the mainmast. Tracking is exceptionally straight due to the hull's long lateral plane, which makes it an ideal candidate for long-distance passage-making under autopilot. However, this same design characteristic means the boat has a wide turning circle, making tight marina maneuvers a challenge that usually requires the assistance of a bow thruster.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Gallart 13.5 MS is a testament to the "Deck Saloon" philosophy before it became a mainstream marketing term. The raised coachroof allows for large windows that flood the main saloon with natural light, a stark contrast to the "cave-like" interiors of contemporary pure sailing yachts. Because the 13.5 MS shares its hull with the 13.5 MP (the power-only version), the internal volume is cavernous for a 44-foot boat.

Most configurations feature a center-cockpit layout which enables a completely private, full-beam aft cabin. This master suite usually includes a dedicated head and enough standing headroom to rival much larger yachts. Forward of the saloon, the galley is typically located "down," providing a secure workspace at sea, followed by a guest V-berth. The use of heavy hardwoods, such as teak and mahogany, was standard during its production run at the Vilassar de Mar facility. While the MS variant focuses on the sailing cockpit, the 13.5 MP sibling variant replaces the rig with a flybridge and a larger internal helm station, highlighting the versatility of the Presles-designed hull.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Gallart 13.5 MS should approach the purchase with a focus on the structural and mechanical systems typical of Spanish builds from this era. According to historical technical data and owner reports from Spanish nautical archives, there are several high-signal areas for inspection:

• Fuel and Water Tanks: Many Gallart models of this vintage utilized metallic tanks (often stainless steel or galvanized steel) that were glassed into the hull structure. Over decades, stagnant moisture can lead to pinhole leaks or "crevice corrosion." Replacing these tanks is a major industrial project that often requires cutting into the cabin sole.
• Hull Osmosis: While Gallart was a pioneer in fiberglass, early resins used in the 1970s and 80s are susceptible to osmotic blistering. A moisture meter test on the hull below the waterline is essential, especially if the boat has spent its entire life in the warm waters of the Mediterranean.
• Chainplates and Rigging: On the ketch-rigged MS version, the chainplates are under significant load. Buyers should inspect the areas where the chainplates meet the deck for signs of water ingress, which can rot the plywood bulkheads hidden behind the interior cabinetry.
• Engine Alignment: Because the 13.5 MS was often fitted with high-horsepower engines (such as Perkins or Volvo Penta diesels) to fulfill its "motorsailer" role, the engine mounts and shaft alignment should be checked for vibration-induced wear.

Community & Resources

The primary point of contact for the technical history of these vessels remains the ARESA Shipyard, which absorbed the Gallart brand and maintains the legacy of Joan and Jaume Gallart's early designs. While there is no centralized international owners' association, the Gallart 13.5 remains a staple in Spanish yacht clubs (Club Nàutic), where local technical knowledge is most prevalent.

The Verdict

The Gallart 13.5 MS is a "tank" of the seas, built for the cruiser who values comfort and safety over the thrill of a 15-knot reach. It is a transitional vessel that successfully captured the build quality of a bygone era.

Pros:

• Exceptional Volume: The shared motor-yacht hull provides living space far superior to traditional 44-foot monohulls.
• Heavy Sea-Kindliness: Its mass and hull shape provide a comfortable, stable ride in rough conditions.
• Redundancy: The ketch rig and large engine capacity offer multiple "get home" options.

Cons:

• Lack of Agility: Heavy displacement and a long keel make it sluggish in light winds and difficult to turn in tight quarters.
• Maintenance Intensity: Twin masts, aged teak decks, and complex plumbing systems require a diligent maintenance budget.
• Tankage Access: The integrated nature of the original tanks makes repairs or replacements exceptionally difficult.