Outbound 52: A Boat for Cruisers in a Hurry

Outbound 52: A Boat for Cruisers in a Hurry
"Shipyard News" from our March 28, 2007, CW Reckonings.


March 28, 2007
By Andrew Burton More articles by this author



Outbound Yachts / Kernan Yacht Design
With its powerful sailplan and raised saloon, the Outbound 52 promises to be speedy, comfortable and fun to sail.



Outbound Yachts has a 52-footer in the works. Due to be launched this summer, it's a Tim Kernan designed, center-cockpit, fast cruising cutter. Preliminary drawings reveal a moderate displacement hull with a large, bulbed fin keel and a spade rudder. The big, 15/16 fractional, triple-spreader rig will get most of its drive from the mainsail. No doubt, electric winches will make it possible for a couple to handle the boat with ease.

The slightly raised saloon will make the companionway shorter for ease of movement, and diners will enjoy a bright, airy midships social area. The aft cabin is large, with plenty of storage and a private head with walk-in shower. The galley occupies the passageway to port and looks like it will be easy to work. The engine room is in the center of the boat under the cockpit, and is accessed from a small cabin to starboard that has an area labeled workbench or pilot berth. (I know which option I'd choose.)

Three different cabin layouts are offered forward. Each features a good-sized head and shower. The option I like best has an offset double along the port side, with an office or stateroom immediately aft to port; one layout has a pretty basic-looking V-berth with the same cabin arrangement aft; the last dispenses with the extra cabin but has a centerline double berth in a large stateroom that looks like it'll rival the aft cabin for comfort.

Bottom line: the Outbound 52 looks like the kind of boat I prefer to take offshore-- speedy, comfortable and fun to sail.