Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing profile of the Young 5.2 is defined by its wave-piercing "axe" bows and narrow-entry hulls, which significantly reduce pitching and "hobby-horsing" in a seaway. According to technical assessments by Multihulls World, the yacht utilizes deep, retractable daggerboards to achieve superior upwind pointing angles, often exceeding those of comparable performance monohulls. With a light-ship displacement of approximately 11,500 kg and a generous sail plan, the boat boasts a high sail area-to-displacement (SA/Disp) ratio, allowing it to transition into a "skimming" mode early.
Handling is centralized to the cockpit, which is designed for short-handed operation. The high-aspect carbon rig and lack of a traditional heavy fixed keel mean the boat feels exceptionally "live" through the helm. Owners frequently report that the vessel maintains double-digit speeds in conditions where heavier production cats would be forced to motor, a testament to Greg Young's focus on "passive performance"—the ability to sail fast without needing an Olympic-level crew.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Young 5.2 reflects a modern, minimalist aesthetic that serves the dual purpose of luxury and weight saving. The layout is typically centered around a "Great Room" concept, where the salon and galley exist on a single level with the cockpit, separated only by large sliding glass doors to create a seamless indoor-outdoor living space. Forward-facing windows in the salon are a signature of the Young studio, providing the helmsman and guests with 360-degree visibility.
The boat was offered in several cabin configurations, most commonly a three-cabin "Owner’s" layout where the entire port hull is dedicated to a master suite, including a large head and a separate office or dressing area. A four-cabin variant was also produced for performance-oriented charter or larger families. Throughout the vessel, cabinetry is often constructed using honeycomb cores or lightweight veneers to keep the center of gravity low and the overall weight within the design parameters of the hulls.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach the Young 5.2 as they would a high-performance aircraft; its complexity and materials require specialized oversight.
- Carbon-Fiber Rigging: Most models are equipped with carbon masts and high-tech standing rigging (such as Kevlar or carbon). These components have finite lifespans and require non-destructive testing (NDT) to identify micro-fractures not visible to the naked eye.
- Daggerboard Trunks: Given the high speeds and lateral loads, the daggerboard trunks and the boards themselves should be inspected for stress crazing or wear in the delrin bearings.
- Systems Complexity: As a semi-custom yacht, the electrical systems often utilize sophisticated PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) digital switching. Buyers should ensure the software is updated and that technical manuals for the specific hull's wiring are available.
- Composite Print-Through: On earlier hulls, ensure the finish is free of "print-through," where the pattern of the internal structure becomes visible on the gelcoat, which can sometimes indicate excessive heat exposure or resin curing issues.
Community & Resources
The primary resource for technical data and design history is the Greg Young Design archive, which maintains records for the 52-foot series. Additionally, the New Zealand multihull community remains a primary hub for owners, as many of these vessels were constructed in Auckland-based yards.
The Verdict
The Young 5.2 is an uncompromising performance catamaran for the sailor who values speed and design over the massive interior volume of a "floating apartment." It is a sophisticated machine that rewards active trimming and careful weight management.
Pros:
- Exceptional light-air performance and upwind capability.
- State-of-the-art carbon composite construction.
- Stunning aesthetic with 360-degree visibility from the salon.
- Retractable daggerboards allow for shallow-water gunkholing.
Cons:
- High maintenance requirements for carbon components and complex systems.
- Limited interior volume compared to "fat-hull" production catamarans.
- Requires an experienced hand to manage high loads safely in heavy weather.
