Little Harbor 50 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Little Harbor 50 are defined by its substantial displacement and sophisticated underwater profile. With a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio of approximately 297, it is firmly categorized as a heavy cruiser, a trait that translates into an exceptionally "sea-kindly" motion in offshore conditions. According to technical data from Mauripro Sailing, the boat’s motion comfort ratio sits at a high 41.1, indicating a stable platform that resists the jerky accelerations common in lighter, modern hulls.

Handling is largely governed by the centerboard system. With the board raised, the yacht draws roughly 5' 6", enabling access to the Bahamas and other shoal-draft regions. When lowered to its full depth of 11' 6", the 50 transforms into a formidable upwind machine. Owners often note that the boat tracks with remarkable precision and maintains its momentum through a chop, a byproduct of the "full-chested" hull design and significant ballast. While the base sail area-to-displacement (SA/D) ratio of 15.2 suggests a moderate pace in light airs, the design was frequently paired with 135% or larger genoas and electric winches to maintain competitive speeds across the wind spectrum. Many units were equipped with Hood’s "Stoway" in-mast furling systems, designed to make the large sail plan manageable for short-handed crews.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Little Harbor 50 reflects the high-water mark of Taiwanese boatbuilding from the 1980s, characterized by extensive use of hand-rubbed teak, solid joinery, and semi-custom layouts. Most hulls feature a three-cabin configuration, with a signature master suite located aft. This cabin typically includes a large centerline berth (or split singles for sea berths) and a private ensuite head with a separate shower stall.

The salon is centered around a massive, often gimbaled dining table, a necessity for comfortable dining at sea. To port, a U-shaped galley is designed with deep stainless sinks and high fiddles, ensuring safety during passage-making. The 50’s beam of over 15 feet provides a sense of volume that rivals larger vessels. Sibling models, such as the Little Harbor 52 and 53, often utilized the same hull mold but extended the aft sections or added pilothouses to accommodate different cruising priorities. The Little Harbor 52, for example, often featured a refined cockpit sole and specialized electronics centers under the dodger, as seen in Ted Hood’s personal yacht, "Robin," a well-documented sibling to the 50 series.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Little Harbor 50 and its close siblings have long been favorites of the yachting press for their "Yacht" with a capital Y aesthetic. Editorial retrospectives in SpinSheet have highlighted the brand's transition from balsa to foam-core construction (Airex and Divinicell), which set them apart from many contemporary builders. Specific vessels like Ishara, a 1983 model, have gained modern visibility through extensive video walkthroughs and brokerage showcases, illustrating the enduring demand for the model’s blue-water pedigree.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Little Harbor 50 requires a thorough investigation of its complex mechanical and structural systems, which were often ahead of their time.

• Centerboard Assembly: The cable, pulleys, and pivot pin of the centerboard are high-wear items. If the board hasn't been dropped and inspected recently, it can become a significant maintenance "gotcha," leading to vibrations or jamming.
• Teak Deck Integrity: Like many yachts of this era, the teak decks were typically screwed and glued. Prospective buyers should check for "popped" bungs or signs of water intrusion into the core, though the use of closed-cell foam in later hulls mitigates some of the rot risk associated with balsa.
• Aging Hydraulics and Electrics: Because these boats were built for short-handed sailing, they are often laden with electric winches and hydraulic furling systems. The wiring and motors for these systems, if original, may be nearing the end of their service life and are expensive to replace.
• Core Moisture: While the transition to Airex foam hulls was a benefit, early transitions occasionally saw bonding issues. A percussion hammer test and moisture meter reading on the hull and deck remain mandatory.

Community & Resources

Owners of Little Harbor yachts often find support through the broader community of Ted Hood design enthusiasts. While there is no longer a factory-direct support line, the legacy is maintained by firms like Wellington Yacht Partners, who specialize in the brokerage and history of Hood’s designs. Technical details and rig specifications are also maintained through databases hosted by specialized rigging retailers who continue to service the Hood-designed spars.

The Verdict

The Little Harbor 50 is an uncompromising blue-water cruiser that offers a level of craftsmanship and sea-kindliness rarely found in modern production boats. It is best suited for the experienced couple or family looking to cross oceans in comfort.

Pros:

• Exceptional Versatility: The centerboard design allows for both deep-sea performance and shoal-water exploration.
• Build Quality: High-grade joinery and robust scantlings provide a "ship-like" feel.
• Seakindliness: High motion comfort ratio ensures less fatigue for the crew during long passages.

Cons:

• High Maintenance: Complex systems (hydraulics, centerboard, teak) require a larger annual budget.
• Light Air Pace: The heavy displacement requires significant sail area or a larger engine to maintain speed in calms.
• Aging Systems: Most examples on the market will require updates to original DC electrical systems and plumbing.