Gulfstar 50 true draft

[pbbmorton]

There a number of conflicting specs on the GS 50 draft (5.5', 6', 5.9'). I am purchasing a 1975 FS50 ketch. Does anyone know the true draft?

Thanks much in advance.

[Teknav]

Hi! The keel of a Gulfstar 50 is 6'6". I sailed one in the 80's, in St.Croix - USVI, when it was among the fleet operated by Annapolis Sailing School. Aim for a sailboat whose keel is 5 feet or less.

Mauritz

[Kevin84]

Originally Posted by Teknav

Aim for a sailboat whose keel is 5 feet or less.

Mauritz

Depends on what your intended use for the boat is. Me, I'd never buy a shoal draft boat. But I'm planning on using it for serious offshore work. Gunkholing in the Bahamas, OTOH, a shoal draft is perfect.

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[ctl411]

Most places list G50 draft at 5.5 foot. On the Facebook page most owners list 6 foot. My guess this is a loaded draft number. I haven't measure mine yet but on the trip up the Ohio river we went into a shallow marina for a night stop. It was said to be 6 foot and we rubbed in one spot coming in that was definitely not 6 foot. On my home waters lake Mac I can go over areas where a friend that draws 6'6" can't. Long story long lol my guess 6 foot would be a safe number. I will measure next time I'm out to the boat.

[pbbmorton]

Thanks, the 6' is probably is loaded. I am pulling the boat on Tuesday and will have a measurement done.

The other measurement I am having a challenge to find is mast height. Any ideas here?

[ctl411]

Main mast 55 off the water. But I know of one boat that is 62 or so. If you will be going under bridges that's one you should check. Put a piece of tape on the water line before they pull you out. Takes the guessing out of it.

[pbbmorton]

Thanks will let all know.