Wasa 55 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Wasa 55 are defined by its extreme geometry. With a Displacement/Length ratio that leans toward the lighter end of the cruiser-racer spectrum and a high-aspect fractional rig, the boat is a formidable upwind performer. The narrow hull slices through chop with minimal resistance, avoiding the "slamming" common in wider, modern hulls. However, this design dictates a specific handling profile: the boat is "tender" initially, meaning it heels quickly to about 15 or 20 degrees until the deep lead keel provides maximum righting moment.

Owners frequently report that the Wasa 55 feels more like a large dinghy than a 44-foot keelboat, offering immediate feedback through the tiller (or the occasional wheel conversion). Because the beam is so narrow, the boat does not develop the massive weather helm found in wider boats when over-canvassed; instead, it simply heels further, requiring proactive reefing of the mainsail to maintain optimal speed. The sail plan, typically around 55 square meters (hence the name), is manageable for short-handed crews, provided the winches are well-maintained. Its tracking is exceptional due to the long waterline, though its turning circle in tight marinas can be wide due to the length relative to the rudder's leverage.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Wasa 55 offers a "tunnel" layout that is surprisingly functional despite the 2.55-meter beam. The interior is a showcase of traditional Swedish craftsmanship, finished primarily in high-grade mahogany with a classic satin varnish. The layout typically features a V-berth forward, followed by a heads compartment that spans the width of the boat. The central salon utilizes the widest part of the hull with two longitudinal settees, though the lack of beam means a permanent centerline table is often narrow or foldable to allow passage.

The galley and navigation station are situated aft of the salon. Due to the boat's "flush deck" appearance, headroom is concentrated in the center and tapers toward the bows. Later versions and custom builds sometimes featured variations in the aft section, including narrow pilot berths or "quarter berths" tucked under the cockpit sole. While the Wasa 55 lacks the "ballroom" feel of a modern 40-footer, its cozy, sea-going interior is highly regarded for its safety in heavy weather, as there are always handholds within reach. The Wasa 55 was followed by siblings like the Wasa 38 and Wasa 360, which moved toward more moderate beams to accommodate larger families, making the 55 the purest expression of the yard's original speed-first ethos.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Wasa 55 maintains a cult following in Northern Europe, particularly in the Baltic Sea, where it is a regular participant in the "Åf Offshore Race" (formerly Gotland Runt). It is often cited in Swedish sailing literature as the pinnacle of the "modern Skerry" movement. The model gained some international visibility through the exploits of regional racers who proved that the narrow hull could compete with much larger IOR-era boats in light to medium airs.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Wasa 55 with a focus on structural and age-related maintenance typical of 1970s and 80s builds.

• S-Drive Diaphragm: Most Wasa 55s were originally fitted with Volvo Penta engines and S-drive transmissions. The rubber hull seal (diaphragm) has a recommended replacement interval of 7 years; if the service history is murky, this should be a priority.
• Chainplate Inspection: Given the narrow beam, the shroud angles are acute, putting significant tension on the rig. Inspect the chainplates and the surrounding bulkhead reinforcement for signs of movement or water ingress.
• Deck Core Integrity: While Wasa utilized high-quality construction, the sandwich-core decks can suffer from delamination if hardware has been added or re-bedded improperly over the decades. A "tap test" with a phenolic hammer is essential.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: The 55 carries a significant amount of lead deep down. Check the internal floors and the keel bolts for signs of "the smile" (gapping at the leading edge of the keel) which may indicate a history of groundings or the need for re-torquing.
• Ruddy Bearings: The narrow, deep rudder is subject to high loads. Check for excessive play in the bushings, which can lead to vibration at high speeds.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the original boatyard, now operating as a service facility in Sweden. They maintain historical drawings and can often provide replacement parts or technical advice for the Wasa 55. The Wasa Yachts official site serves as the central repository for the brand's legacy. Additionally, the broader "Skerry Cruiser Association" often includes Wasa 55 owners in their technical discussions due to the design's lineage.

The Verdict

The Wasa 55 is a "sailor’s sailboat," designed for those who find more joy in a perfectly trimmed sail and a 10-knot reach than in a spacious aft cabin. It is a specialized tool for the connoisseur of Swedish design.

Pros:

• Exceptional upwind performance and "pointing" ability.
• Timeless, elegant aesthetics that stand out in any marina.
• High-quality Scandinavian interior craftsmanship.
• Robust fiberglass layup and a deep lead keel for safety.

Cons:

• Extremely narrow interior living space compared to modern boats of equal length.
• Initial "tenderness" (heels quickly) may be disconcerting for novice sailors.
• The long, narrow hull can be challenging to maneuver in tight, cross-wind docking situations.