Design and Construction
Peterson’s powerful hull form combines a slightly winged keel with a broad transom. The transom adds stability downwind, while the overall shape trades a little upwind bite for greater composure when reaching or running. The boat’s slightly winged keel and beamy transom reflect that performance balance.
Cantiere del Pardo offered two keel drafts for different cruising grounds: a shallow 7'1" version and a deep 8'8" version. The 14'1" beam and 40'3" waterline give the hull volume and reserve stability without pushing into superyacht width.
The hull and deck are solid fiberglass. Rather than relying on an exotic core, the design uses its winged-keel and transom geometry to do the structural and dynamic work. The 1992 model came early in the Grand Soleil 50’s production run.
Rig, Steering, and Cockpit
The standard masthead rig has an I measurement of 61'8" and carries 1,099 square feet of sail area. The optional tall rig increases the I measurement to 65'3" and sail area to 1,165 square feet.
A Sparcraft mast carries the main halyard with an additional stopper, a small detail that makes short-handed hoists easier. The Solimar steering system provides fingertip control and a light touch at the wheel. A T-shaped aft cockpit with contoured benches helps keep the crew seated and secure during maneuvers.
The tall rig comes with an important handling requirement: test sailors found that lee runners are required in winds over 20 knots with this configuration. Anyone planning breezy passages with the tall rig should account for that in the rigging and treat the runners as a regular offshore procedure rather than an emergency measure. The requirement stems from the additional mast height and sail area, not from a hull deficiency.
Accommodations and Deck Layout
Below, the saloon combines flowing curves and carefully finished cherry wood with a white vinyl deck liner. The effect is tailored rather than glossy.
The galley is to starboard of the companion ladder and includes a three-burner stove and oven, a freezer, and double sinks. The navigation station occupies the forward starboard side of the saloon.
In the standard layout, a deep sail locker sits in the center of the foredeck. It can be reached through a hatch above or from below, keeping bulky sails out of the living spaces. An alternative dual-cabin arrangement places a queen-sized bed to port and a single full-sized berth to starboard, with a hinged pilot berth above it.
Wide, teak-covered side decks were optional. At the bow, twin anchor rollers serve a deep anchor locker.
Verdict
The 1992 Grand Soleil 50 is a substantial Peterson cruiser with a deliberate performance edge, real downwind composure, and a well-finished interior that should wear well. The choice of shallow or deep keels broadens the range of cruising grounds she can handle. Below, the cherry saloon, practical galley, and separate sail locker accessible from below make her a thoughtful liveaboard.
The tall rig’s need for lee runners above 20 knots is the one operational point a buyer should respect.
Pros
- Beamy, winged-keel hull provides downwind stability
- Choice of 7'1" shallow or 8'8" deep keel drafts
- Cherry-finished saloon
- Practical galley with three-burner stove and oven, freezer, and double sinks
- Foredeck sail locker accessible from above and below
- Light Solimar steering
Cons
- Tall rig requires lee runners above 20 knots
- Only thirty were built, limiting market familiarity
