Grand Soleil 50 (1998) Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

True to Doug Peterson’s design philosophy, the Grand Soleil 50 is a stiff, powerful performer that excels in upwind conditions. Its hull features a deep V-shaped bow and relatively flat sections aft, which helps the boat plane in heavy air while maintaining excellent tracking. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the performance end of the cruiser-racer spectrum, it remains responsive in light Mediterranean airs where heavier cruisers might struggle.

The boat was typically fitted with a deep-fin lead keel, providing a high ballast ratio that allows it to carry a generous sail plan without excessive heeling. In sea trials and owner reports, the GS 50 is noted for its "sea-kindliness," a term referring to its smooth motion through choppy water rather than slamming. The steering is generally described as communicative, thanks to a large-diameter wheel and a well-balanced spade rudder. While it is manageable by a couple if equipped with electric winches and an autopilot, the GS 50’s deck layout—often featuring a large cockpit and numerous control lines—is clearly optimized for a full racing crew.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Grand Soleil 50 is a masterclass in traditional Italian joinery, utilizing high-grade teak or cherry woods. The most common configuration features a large owner’s suite forward with a private head and separate shower stall. Two symmetric double guest cabins are located aft, each with ample storage and standing headroom.

A notable sibling variant in the Grand Soleil lineup of this era is the Grand Soleil 46.3, which shares much of the Peterson-era DNA but on a smaller scale. For the 50, Pardo offered some flexibility in the salon; while most hulls feature a large U-shaped settee to starboard and a linear galley to port, some versions were customized with twin armchairs or different navigation station orientations. The headroom is exceptional throughout, often exceeding 6'4" (1.93m) in the main salon, contributing to an airy, voluminous feel that was ahead of its time for a performance-oriented hull.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their survey on the structural core of the vessel. The Grand Soleil 50 utilizes a galvanized steel grid bonded to the hull to take the rig and keel loads. While this makes the boat incredibly strong, any history of significant grounding can compromise the bonding between the steel and the GRP, or lead to corrosion if water has sat in the bilge for extended periods.

The teak decks are another high-signal area for inspection. As these boats approach their third decade, many original decks are nearing the end of their service life. Reports from owner circles suggest that the teak was often vacuum-bonded, but thin spots or screw-head protrusions are common. Additionally, the rudder bearings on the Peterson 50 are known to develop play over time, requiring replacement to maintain the boat's precise handling. Finally, the plexiglass coachroof windows, while stylish, are prone to crazing and leaking if the original seals have perished.

Community & Resources

The Grand Soleil 50 enjoys a dedicated following among European sailors, particularly in Italy and the UK. The most prominent resource for technical support and heritage information is the Grand Soleil Official Site, which maintains a historical archive of the Peterson era. For owners looking for technical discussions regarding refits and specific Peterson-design quirks, the Grand Soleil Owners Association provides a platform for shared knowledge, though much of their detailed technical documentation is reserved for members.

The Verdict

The Grand Soleil 50 (1998) remains one of the most sought-after models for sailors who refuse to compromise between speed and aesthetics. It is a sophisticated yacht that requires an experienced hand but rewards the owner with performance that many modern production cruisers cannot match.

Pros:

• Timeless Doug Peterson design with excellent upwind performance.
• High-quality interior finish and robust structural steel frame.
• Large, ergonomic cockpit suitable for both racing and entertaining.

Cons:

• Original teak decks are expensive to replace and likely near end-of-life.
• The large sail plan can be a handful for short-handed crews without power assistance.
• Maintenance of the galvanized steel frame requires a diligent, dry bilge.