Schock 55 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Schock 55 are defined by its remarkable power-to-weight ratio. As an evolution of the performance concepts found in the Schock 35 and the later Schock 40, the 55 utilizes a relatively narrow beam and a deep fin keel to minimize drag and maximize stability. According to technical specifications formerly maintained by W.D. Schock Corp, the boat was engineered with a vacuum-bagged, balsa-cored hull to ensure structural rigidity without the weight penalties of traditional solid-glass layups.

Under sail, the boat is described by owners as "lively and responsive," more akin to a 40-footer in its handling than a traditional 55-foot cruiser. It excels in off-the-wind conditions, where its light displacement allows it to plane earlier than heavier European designs. However, because of its ULDB nature, the boat requires active sail management. In heavy weather, the Schock 55 can become tender if over-canvassed, necessitating early reefing to maintain a comfortable heel angle. Its spade rudder provides exceptional grip, though some owners have noted that the helm can feel sensitive at high speeds, requiring a focused hand when surfing down ocean swells.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Schock 55 was a significant departure from the utilitarian aesthetic of Schock’s smaller racing models. The layout was typically configured for long-distance passage making and offshore racing, featuring a spacious main salon with a large U-shaped settee and a substantial navigation station. The use of light-colored woods, such as ash or light oak, was common in many hulls to enhance the sense of space below deck.

The standard configuration generally included three private cabins: a master suite forward with a dedicated head and two guest cabins aft. Because these boats were often built to order or in limited runs, variations exist in the galley layout; some feature a linear galley to port, while others utilize a more compact U-shaped design to maximize floor space for sail changes during races. Headroom is generous throughout the main cabin, usually exceeding 6'4", making it one of the few high-performance "sleds" of its era that could comfortably accommodate a tall crew for extended periods.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Schock 55 has long been a fixture in the California offshore racing scene. While it did not reach the production numbers of the Santana series, individual hulls have gained notoriety in major Pacific races. The boat has been a frequent competitor in the Transpacific Yacht Race (Transpac) and the Pacific Cup. Editorial coverage in the 1990s often compared the Schock 55 to the MacGregor 65 or the Santa Cruz series, though the Schock was frequently cited for its superior interior finish and "dual-purpose" capability.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Schock 55 requires a rigorous survey, particularly due to its specialized construction and high-performance history.

• Deck and Hull Core: Like many balsa-cored boats of this era, the Schock 55 is susceptible to moisture ingress if deck hardware has not been properly re-bedded. Specific attention should be paid to the areas around the chainplates and stanchion bases.
• Keel Attachment: Given the stresses of offshore racing, the keel sump and floor grid should be inspected for "smile" cracks or signs of structural movement. While the hulls are robust, years of pounding in heavy seas can fatigue the keel-to-hull joint.
• Rigging Loads: Many of these vessels were equipped with high-tension rod rigging. Buyers should verify the age of the standing rigging, as rod rigging can fail without the visible warning signs found in 1x19 wire.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: The spade rudder on a boat of this size experiences significant torque. Check for excessive play in the rudder post bearings, which may require replacement if the boat has seen heavy racing use.

Community & Resources

The primary resource for technical support remains the W.D. Schock Corp archives and their remaining parts department, which has historically provided support for legacy models even as the company's manufacturing status changed. For technical discussions and owner-led maintenance advice, the Santana/Schock Owners Association occasionally covers the larger models, though the 55 is often discussed within broader ULDB and West Coast racing communities.

The Verdict

The Schock 55 is a rare and specialized yacht that caters to the sailor who prioritizes speed and West Coast performance pedigree over the voluminous "floating condo" designs of modern production builders.

Pros:

• Exceptional Speed: One of the fastest cruisers of its generation, particularly on downwind reaches.
• Refined Interior: Offers a level of luxury and cabin space rarely found in high-performance ULDBs.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Features a sleek, low-profile deckhouse and classic Steve Schock lines.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensive: High-performance systems and cored construction require diligent upkeep.
• Light Displacement: Can be "flighty" in a chop compared to heavy-displacement bluewater cruisers.
• Limited Market: As a niche performance boat, resale can take longer than more conventional cruising brands.