Hinckley Sou'wester 51 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Sou'wester 51 was designed as a "dual-purpose" yacht, capable of winning silver in offshore races while remaining manageable for a couple to cruise. The defining characteristic of its handling is the McCurdy & Rhodes centerboard configuration. With the board up, the vessel draws approximately 5' 11", allowing it to enter shallow Chesapeake or Bahamian harbors. With the board down, the draft extends to nearly 11', transforming the boat into a deep-keel performance machine with exceptional lift and a reduced leeway angle.

With a displacement of roughly 40,000 pounds and a ballast-to-displacement ratio hovering near 35%, the 51 is a stiff, powerful yacht that carries its momentum through a chop. Unlike the earlier S&S designs, which featured narrower beams and more overhang, the 51 utilizes a flatter run aft and a more modern entry. According to historical technical overviews provided by Hinckley Yachts, the design focus was on "sea-kindliness," ensuring the hull does not slam in a head sea. The sail area-to-displacement ratio is generous enough to keep the boat moving in light airs, though she truly shines in 15 to 25 knots of breeze, where her hull speed of approximately 8.5 knots is easily achieved and maintained.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Sou'wester 51 is a masterclass in American cabinetry, typically finished in book-matched semi-gloss cherry or teak. The layout was designed for long-term live-aboard comfort, generally featuring a two-stateroom, two-head configuration. The owner’s suite is situated forward, often featuring a large V-berth or a centerline queen, accompanied by a private head and separate shower stall. The main salon is characterized by a spacious U-shaped dinette to port and a straight settee to starboard, providing ample seating for six to eight guests.

Hinckley offered several variations of the 51, including a "Competition" version with a deeper fixed keel and a taller rig, though the centerboard version remained the most popular. The 51 was part of a cohesive family of McCurdy & Rhodes designs that included the smaller Sou'wester 42 and the larger Sou'wester 59. While the 42 was often seen as a coastal cruiser, the 51 was built with the tankage—often exceeding 200 gallons of water and 100 gallons of fuel—required for serious blue-water voyaging. The galley is typically located in the "pass-through" style or at the base of the companionway, featuring deep stainless steel sinks and heavy insulation in the refrigeration units, a necessity for tropical cruising.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While Hinckley’s build quality is legendary, a vessel of this vintage requires specific technical scrutiny. Prospective buyers should focus on three primary areas:

• Centerboard Assembly: The hydraulic or manual pennant system that operates the centerboard is a critical maintenance item. The pivot pin and the pennant itself should be inspected for wear, as failure can lead to the board becoming stuck or damaged.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Sou'wester 51 features a balsa-cored deck. While Hinckley was meticulous about potting hardware holes with solid resin, decades of aftermarket equipment installations can lead to moisture intrusion. A thermal imaging scan or percussion sounding of the deck is highly recommended.
• Chainplate Inspection: The stainless steel chainplates are robust but are buried behind high-end joinery. Owners have occasionally reported crevice corrosion in the areas where the plates pass through the deck, requiring careful resealing or periodic pulling for inspection.
• Systems Obsolescence: Many 51s were equipped with complex Westerbeke engines and proprietary electrical panels that may now be reaching the end of their service life, necessitating a thorough electrical survey to ensure compliance with modern standards.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Sou'wester 51 benefit from one of the most dedicated manufacturer-supported communities in the world. The Hinckley Owners network provides access to original build specs and technical drawings, which the company famously archives for every hull ever built. Additionally, the Hinckley service yards in Maine, Rhode Island, and Florida specialize in the "Lifepro" service programs, which are designed to refit and maintain these classic hulls to modern standards. Technical discussions and owner experiences are also frequently shared via the Hinckley Yacht Club, which organizes regional rendezvous and cruises.

The Verdict

The Hinckley Sou'wester 51 remains one of the most desirable pre-owned yachts for the sailor who values pedigree, craftsmanship, and the ability to cruise in shallow waters without sacrificing offshore performance.

Pros:

• Versatile Draft: The 5' 11" board-up draft is exceptional for a 50-foot performance yacht.
• Build Quality: Superior joinery and composite construction that outclasses almost any production yacht.
• Resale Value: Hinckleys traditionally hold their value better than almost any other American brand.
• Aesthetics: Timeless lines that command respect in any harbor.

Cons:

• Maintenance Costs: Keeping a "Hinckley finish" on the exterior brightwork is expensive and labor-intensive.
• Complexity: The centerboard and older hydraulic systems require specialized knowledge to service.
• Entry Price: Even decades later, the 51 commands a premium price compared to younger, less prestigious yachts.