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Post by mikejesse on Nov 23, 2013 18:36:14 GMT
Want to buy a 1999-2003 SO 52.2 in 3-4 years. Any owners out there with sailing performance , and other information about these boats would be greatly appreciated. Just finished three years of sailing in the Caribbean and to New Zealand in a 1982 Pearson 424. Just sold her in New Zealand and now saving for my next boat.
Thanks, Mike
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Post by Stella Maris on Nov 25, 2013 17:35:01 GMT
I am a recent owner of a 2002 SO52.2 performance model. She has the full performance keel and no furling main. Took her out for a sea trial some months ago and my first impression was WOW ! They are powerful boats. It was blowing a steady 18 - 20k, with a good 2 - 3' chop and she handled it beautifully. Very dry even with no reef. Did not go through all the points of sail, as time was limited, but on a beam to close reach in these conditions, it was very exciting but well mannered sail. I'm sure the windward performance would be equally impressive.
She was clipping along easily at 9 knots and we were not really pushing her. I'm sure these boats would be a blast on a broad reach and would easily hit 12 -13 knots surfing. I have done a lot of reading on the SO52.2 and it seems that the full performance setup really makes the boat come alive. I was looking for this sort of speed and comfort to make the 80 mile crossing to the Grenadines less daunting and I feel that she will deliver this.
Otherwise, I don't have a lot of actual sea time with her but on the downside my first impression was that visibility of the sails was not good, also seeing over the dodger while docking etc is another problem. Also the draft at 7' 7" is a bit of a concern while cruising but I think the improved performance is worth it.
My boat has one of the 100hp Yanmar's, which I think is a worthwhile feature as this allows the boat to make 8+ knots easily while motoring.
She has the expected kick to port when reversing with my normal 3 blade fixed prop. Maybe a nice folding or feathering prop may minimize this but at 52' a good working bow thruster is a useful option to have.
Do you have a particular one that you're looking at right now. I see there are a couple in Turkey for sale right now.
If you have any other specific questions I would be happy to share what I know.
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Post by mikejesse on Nov 26, 2013 13:50:33 GMT
Thanks for the input Stella. I think you will be happy with the longer keel and the added performance you will get from it. Planning on chartering one in 2015, to help with my decision. Would like to know what size headsail you have and any more sailing information you discover as you continue to enjoy your new boat. When I was down in the caribbean I needed a bimini, but never a dodger.
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Post by Zanshin on Nov 26, 2013 14:02:58 GMT
While a bimini is essential in the Caribbean, adding a dodger to that improves life aboard immensely. The trades blow at 10-18 knots, even in relatively protected anchorages and the constants wind whistling through the cockpit without a dodger becomes bothersome at times. The dodger gives you windshade while at anchor. A boat the size of the 52 will stay dray on most passages so the dodger isn't quite as necessary when sailing.
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Post by mikejesse on Nov 26, 2013 15:22:41 GMT
I guess it's just a preference. I enjoyed the unobstructed view while sailing down there, and wanted the breeze while at anchor. I did wish I had a dodger down there during a few rain storms. Not sure how much area the bimini covers?
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