1997 Beneteau 50
$129,950
Boat in Seattle, WA 98117 US
Built in 1997
50
1 Engine (Perkins)
50.7 feet
--
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Gonzo is a 1997 Beneteau 50 with a beautiful teak interior. The Beneteau 50 was designed by Bruce Farr with an interior by Armel Briand. The 5 cabin 5 head sloop was a staple of charter fleets in the late 90's and early 00's. The sailing performance left charter guests and owners smiling with excellent offshore performance.
She is nicely equipped and has seen light use over the last few years. There are less than 3000 hours on the Perkins 85 HP diesel engine. A 2023 survey is available to review after touring the vessel.
Interior
Gonzo has four double cabins with ensuite heads in the main cabin. There is a divider between the two forward cabins that can be removed to create a spacious primary cabin. This provides flexibility to create an owner's version layout.
A small forward "Crew" cabin with head and two bunks is accessed via a hatch in the bow. This space is more suited for storage than sleeping with charter crews usually preferring to sleep on deck.
The main salon has a dinette portside and galley to starboard. The large nav station uses the port settee for seating. There is ample storage throughout the boat.
Galley
- Long linear galley with lots of counter space
- Island counter centerline of salon across from galley
- Force 10 3-burner Propane Stove w/ Oven
- 2 x propane tanks
- Magma Propane Grill on cockpit rail
- 12v Refrigerator & Freezer with a holding plate
- Double SS Sink
- Lots of Storage - cabinets above with drawers & storage areas below the galley
Water
- 5 x Jabsco manual flush heads
- Stainless steel sinks in heads with handheld shower hose
- Transom shower
- 12-gallon hot water tank
- 264 gallons of fresh water tank in four tanks
- 2 x Jabsco 12-volt water pumps with accumulator tank
Heat
- Espar Hydronic diesel heat with multiple registers and rotary controls
Electrical
- 5 x Lifeline AGM Group 31 batteries in Bank 1
- 2 x 4D Lifeline AGM batteries in Bank 2
- 1 x Group 31 engine start battery
- Magnum Energy "MagnaSine" 2000-watt Inverter
- 30 Amp - 120 Volt Smart Plug shower power
Electronics
- ICOM IC M424 VHF Radio with MMSI
- Garmin TR-1 Autopilot
- Raytheon ST60 Wind Instrument
- Raytheon Tridata for Depth & Speed
- Raytheon Pathfinder RL 70 LCD Radar Display
- Si-tex Colormax Wide GPS Chart Plotter
- Raytheon 1265 Fishfinder (currently inoperable)
- Kenwood KMR-D37BBT AM/FM/CD with Bluetooth
- Panasonic 32" Smart TV
- Stereo speakers in main salon and cockpit
- KVH Trac Vision Satellite TV Dome (currently disconnected)
Sails & Rigging
- Full Battened Dacron Mainsail with Reef Points
- Doyle Stack Pack with jacklines
- Doyle dacron genoa with UV panel on Hood furler system
- Aluminum keel stepped mast with twin spreaders
- Standing rigging in good condition
- Lewmar self-tailing winches
- Lewmar traveler in front of dodger
Deck
The deck layout on the Beneteau 50 includes wide sidedecks, a teak-covered bulwark, and judiciously located hatches that ensure easy and safe circulation on deck. The 50 features a dual cockpit configuration: the guest cockpit is well protected and offers comfort for eight people around the standard table, while the crew cockpit has two steering positions and directly accessible winches for the helmsman. Access from the stern is made easy by a built-in step and a hinged door that leads to an uncluttered passageway to both cockpits. Designed to be adaptable to different sailing programs,
- Lifesling 2
- Magma BBQ
- CQR Hinged Plow anchor with 120' of 1/2" chain and 200' of 5/8" line
- Bruce 33KG secondary anchor
- Dodger, bimini and connector panel
- Large cockpit lazarette on port and starboard
Mechanical
- Perkins 85 HP Diesel Engine
- Packless shaft seal system
- 2 x 66-gallon aluminum fuel tanks
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 6/28/25 | Initial price | $129,950 |
1997 Beneteau 50 Video Tours
Boattest.com Review
Overview
The Beneteau Swift 50 is designed as a versatile cruiser that balances the characteristics of a slow-moving displacement trawler with the capabilities of a high-speed motor yacht. Equipped with twin 435-horsepower IPS 600 diesel engines, the Swift 50 achieves a top speed of 21.6 knots. Notably, the vessel maintains consistent fuel efficiency across a broad speed range, allowing operators to travel from displacement speeds up to top speed without significant fuel consumption penalties.
Exterior Design and Deck Layout
The Swift 50 presents a harmonious blend of traditional maritime aesthetics and modern design elements. Its profile features a flying bridge with relatively high bulwarks and a curved overhang above the side decks. Round retro port lights, a teak cap rail, and swept-back air intake grills contribute to both style and function. The most striking exterior feature is the expansive, rounded windshield enveloping the pilot house, which provides exceptional visibility for the skipper. The bow is outfitted with robust hardware suitable for serious cruising, including large cleats, a raised platform, and a windlass to facilitate anchor handling. The port side deck measures 15 inches in width with a 29-inch cap rail height, while the starboard side deck is wider at 22.5 inches to accommodate a sliding side door and a boarding gate for fixed pier access. Boarding from a floating dock is facilitated via the swim platform, which leads up three steps to the protected aft deck. An optional joystick docking station on the aft deck enhances maneuverability during docking.
Interior and Helm Stations
Inside, the lower helm station is designed for operational efficiency and comfort. It accommodates two multifunction navigation screens and features a Volvo Penta digital panel for engine diagnostics. Controls for the joystick and bow thruster are conveniently located behind the throttles near the side door. The helm benefits from a panoramic windshield that extends across the front and down the port side of the boat, offering unparalleled visibility. The windshield includes narrow mullions, three wipers, and two defrosters, with generous headroom of 74 inches. Adjacent to the helm is a two-person booth dinette that can convert into a sea berth, providing a resting spot for the skipper during extended passages. The flying bridge helm mirrors the lower helm's instrumentation and controls while offering even better visibility.
Engine Room and Mechanical Systems
Accessed via a hatch on the aft deck, the engine room is compact but well-organized. While standing room is limited, crouching space is adequate for maintenance tasks. The starboard engine is easily accessible, with the dipstick located conveniently. Forward of the engines is the sea strainer, and an optional generator is mounted on an aluminum stand between the twin engines. A single Raycor fuel filter is attached to the aluminum fuel tank. Despite the compact size, the engine room accommodates a significant amount of optional equipment in a tidy arrangement.
Performance and Handling
The Swift 50 excels in maneuverability, particularly due to its IPS drive system and multiple control stations, which provide optimal sight lines for docking and close-quarters handling. Cruising at displacement speeds between 1,500 and 1,800 RPM yields speeds from 6.5 to 7.4 knots, with fuel consumption ranging from 4.8 to 7.85 gallons per hour. This translates to a range of approximately 540 to 770 nautical miles with a 10% fuel reserve. The availability of higher speeds up to 21.6 knots allows the skipper to respond effectively to changing sea conditions or emergencies, enhancing overall boating enjoyment.
Conclusion
The Beneteau Swift 50 successfully combines the comfort and practicality of a displacement trawler with the performance and style of a modern motor yacht. Its thoughtful design, efficient powertrain, and excellent visibility make it a compelling choice for serious cruisers seeking versatility and ease of handling. The boat’s fuel efficiency across a wide speed range and well-appointed living spaces further contribute to its appeal as a comfortable and capable vessel for extended voyages.
Overview from around the web 1997 Beneteau 50
Customers appreciate the 1997 Beneteau 50 for its spacious and comfortable interior, making it ideal for extended cruising and liveaboard lifestyles
Many highlight its solid build quality and reliable performance under sail, noting that it handles well in a variety of conditions. Owners often praise the boat’s ample storage, well-designed cockpit, and functional layout, which contribute to an enjoyable and practical sailing experience. Some also mention the ease of handling for a vessel of its size, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and those looking to step up to a larger yacht. Overall, the 1997 Beneteau 50 is regarded as a versatile and dependable cruiser that balances performance with comfort.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1997 Beneteau 50 is a popular cruising sailboat known for its spacious design and solid performance. Here are some of the key pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Spacious Interior: The Beneteau 50 offers a roomy and comfortable interior layout, with multiple cabins and ample living space, making it ideal for extended cruising or liveaboard.
Good Performance: Equipped with a well-designed hull and sail plan, it provides reliable and efficient sailing capabilities, suitable for both coastal and offshore voyages.
Solid Construction: Built with quality materials and craftsmanship, the 1997 model features a robust fiberglass hull and deck that have stood the test of time.
Versatile Layout Options: Various interior configurations allow owners to choose layouts that best suit their needs, whether prioritizing additional berths or larger communal areas.
Ample Storage: Plenty of storage compartments and lockers make it convenient for long trips with substantial gear and provisions.
Cons
Older Systems: Being a 1997 model, some onboard systems such as electrical, plumbing, and navigation electronics may be outdated and require upgrades or maintenance.
Weight: While sturdy, the Beneteau 50 can be on the heavier side, which might affect light-wind performance compared to newer, lighter designs.
Maintenance: As with any older boat, ongoing maintenance and occasional refitting can be necessary to keep the vessel in top condition.
Deck Hardware: Some owners note that the deck hardware layout may not be as ergonomic as more modern designs, potentially requiring modifications for ease of handling.
Market Availability: Finding a well-maintained example can sometimes be challenging, and prices may vary depending on condition and location.
Made For
The 1997 Beneteau 50 is ideal for sailors and cruising enthusiasts seeking a spacious and comfortable yacht designed for extended voyages. Its generous accommodations, robust construction, and user-friendly handling make it perfect for families, couples, or small crews looking to explore coastal waters or embark on offshore adventures with confidence and style. Whether you’re planning relaxed weekend getaways or longer passages, the Beneteau 50 offers a versatile and reliable platform for memorable sailing experiences.
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| $129,950 | $124,500 | $109,000 | $109,000 | $89,900 | $89,000 |
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Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact Marine Servicenter - Seattle about 1997 Beneteau 50
2442 Westlake Ave North, Seattle, WA, 98109
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