1984 Irwin 52 Boat in Grenada Marine GD
Built in 1984
52
1 Engine (Perkins)
52 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Irwin 52, 'Jalapeno', has ample space and comfort, making her still one of the most popular bluewater cruising yachts in her class.
From the moment you step aboard, her spacious layout is immediately apparent. Wide side decks, a generous cockpit with a factory manufactured hardtop, provide confidence while underway and ample room for relaxing at anchor. Her ketch rig simplifies sail handling and allows more off wind and heavy weather sail combinations.
Whether you're entertaining guests, enjoying a sunset cruise, or preparing for an extended passage, she offers the space and functionality to suit every occasion.
Below deck, 'Jalapeno' features a warm, inviting interior with ample natural light and exceptional headroom throughout. Rich wood cabinetry, practical storage, and a well-planned 3 cabin, 3 head layout, plus convenient workshop, create an atmosphere that feels more like a comfortable waterfront home than a traditional sailboat. Her large living area, with a beam of over 15 ft, a fully equipped galley, and comfortable accommodations make extended cruising enjoyable for both owners and guests.
Storage is another standout feature of the Irwin 52. From dedicated lockers and cabinetry to generous lazarette and equipment spaces, there is room for cruising gear, provisions, water toys, and everything needed for extended voyages.
One of the Irwin 52's most desirable features is its lifting centreboard.
With the centreboard lowered, she delivers excellent stability and windward performance, while raising it significantly reduces draft, allowing access to shallow anchorages, secluded bays, and marinas that are off-limits to many yachts of this size. This capability gives owners the freedom to enjoy true bluewater cruising without sacrificing access to some of the most beautiful cruising destinations.
Jalapeno is currently on the hard in Grenada and ready for her next adventure.
Accommodation
The large center cockpit offers a relaxed and comfortable seating area surrounding the helm and navigation instruments. A folding cockpit table stows neatly against the helm pedestal, while the custom hardtop provides excellent protection from both sun and rain with removable canvas panels. Large clear enclosure windows offer outstanding visibility underway. The spacious aft deck accommodates the Highfield 310 RIB securely on heavy-duty davits, and a fold-out swim platform provides easy water access while at anchor. Wide, uncluttered side decks and conveniently positioned winches make short-handed sailing simple and efficient.
Below deck, the spacious salon immediately showcases the Irwin 52's traditional craftsmanship and inviting atmosphere. An L-shaped port settee with a folding table, a long starboard settee, and two movable upholstered chairs create a comfortable living space, while both salon settees can also serve as additional single berths. A well-equipped galley lies aft to starboard and features generous storage, refrigeration, freezer capacity, and a Force 10 propane range.
All three staterooms feature private en-suite heads, abundant storage, air conditioning, and fans. The forward guest cabin offers a spacious V-berth, while the port guest cabin features a comfortable double berth with hanging lockers and drawers. The large aft owner's stateroom includes generous storage, a partial walk-around berth, private en-suite head, and separate shower. The original port quarter cabin has been converted into a fully equipped workshop and utility room.
Interior Comforts and Amenities
Salon
- L-shaped port settee
- Folding wooden salon table
- Starboard settee (6'5") converts to a single berth
- (2) Movable upholstered chairs
Cabins
- (3) Double cabins
- (3) Private en-suite heads
- Separate shower in aft owner's cabin
- (2) Fans in each cabin
- Air conditioning outlets throughout
- Hanging lockers and storage drawers in each cabin
- Partial walk-around berth in owner's cabin
- Air conditioning units located beneath berth
Galley
- Spacious U-shaped galley
- Extensive countertop workspace
- Ample storage throughout
- Force 10 three-burner propane stove
- Thermostatically controlled oven
- Built-in microwave/convection oven
- Double stainless steel sinks
- Retractable spray faucet
- Pot filler
- Double top-loading refrigerator
- (2) Grunert holding plates
- Separate top-loading freezer
- (2) Grunert holding plates
- Refrigerator and freezer operate on 120V AC or 12V DC via inverter
- Coffee maker
- Built-in Nutone food processor
- Built-in blender
- Drawers and storage cabinets
- Complete set of dishes, cookware, bakeware, utensils, and silverware
Workshop / Utility Room
- Port quarter cabin converted to workshop
- Utility room
- Bench vice
- Assorted tools
Electronics and Navigation
- Raymarine Axiom+ multifunction chartplotter at helm
- (4) GPS units
- Integrated GPS in Raymarine chartplotter
- GPS on backbone
- Integrated GPS in Standard Horizon VHF
- Furuno legacy GPS at chart table
- Navionics Caribbean electronic charts for Raymarine chartplotter
- Navigation electronics refit (1/2026)
- Caribbean paper charts
- Binoculars
- Raymarine autopilot with controls at helm and chart table (1/2026)
- Danforth 12" magnetic compass at binnacle
- Raymarine electronic compass
- Raymarine wind speed and depth instruments at helm with repeater at chart table (1/2026)
- Icom 710 SSB radio at chart table
- Icom AT-130 automatic tuner for backstay antenna
- Standard Horizon GX2410 VHF/GPS/AIS at chart table (11/2024)
- Main mast VHF antenna
- Uniden UM385 VHF in cockpit
- Mizzen mast VHF antenna
- Handheld VHF with charger
Electrical Systems
- Hart 2500W inverter/charger
- Three-stage battery charger
- 120V AC shore power charging
- Generator charging capability
- 2500W inverter
- 3-stage Balmar alternator charging system
- (2) 8D 12V AGM house batteries, 255Ah each (1/2026)
- (2) Group 31 12V AGM batteries located forward for windlass and bow thruster
- Dedicated generator battery
- Generator alternator charging system
- Isolated generator battery system
Deck and Hull Equipment
- (2) Barlow 32 2-speed self-tailing jib sheet winches
- Lewmar 48 2-speed self-tailing mainsheet winch
- Barlow 19 2-speed centerboard pennant winch
- (2) Harken 44 2-speed self-tailing secondary winches for staysail
- (3) Barlow 23 2-speed winches for genoa, spinnaker, and spare jib halyards
- Lewmar 44 2-speed self-tailing main halyard winch
- Barlow 19 2-speed main boom reefing winch
- Barlow 19 2-speed mizzen sheet winch
- Lewmar 44 2-speed self-tailing mizzen halyard winch
- Double forward chain locker
- 200 ft of 3/8" BBB galvanized primary anchor chain
- 125 ft of 3/8" secondary chain
- 200 ft secondary rode
- 12V Galley Maid windlass with 3/8" gypsy and wildcat drum
- Double bow roller
- 55 lb Delta galvanized primary anchor
- 44 lb Delta stainless steel secondary anchor
- 44 lb Delta galvanized stern anchor
- Stern rail anchor mount
- 300 ft of 5/8" stern anchor rode
- Highfield 310 aluminum/Hypalon inflatable dinghy (1/2024)
- (2) Dinghy benches
- Dinghy bow locker
- Dry floor
- Dinghy anchor with chain and rode
- 9.8 HP Nissan two-stroke outboard (12/2025)
- 2-gallon bow locker fuel tank
- 6-gallon portable fuel tank
Sails and Rigging
- North Sails 130% high-cut headsail (10/2016)
- Harken roller furling headsail
- High-cut staysail
- Harken roller furling staysail
- Doyle full-batten mainsail (2/2020)
- Two reef points
- StackPack
- Lazy jacks
- Doyle full-batten mizzen sail (11/2021)
- StackPack
- Lazy jacks
- Mast step replaced with new aluminum (11/2018)
- Masts and booms removed, stripped, primed, and repainted (11/2018)
Mechanical Equipment
- Cruise Air air conditioning
- (3) Separate air conditioning zones
- Individual thermostats
- Salon and cabin air conditioning
- Mase 7.6 kW diesel generator
- Perkins 85 HP diesel engine
- Nissan 9.8 HP outboard
- Westmar electric bow thruster
- Village Marine watermaker
- 26 GPH water production
- 120V AC operation
- Full spare parts inventory available upon request
Safety Equipment
- (6) Adult life jackets
- Infant life jacket
- (2) Youth life jackets
- (2) Inflatable harnesses with tethers
- EPIRB (battery replaced 4/2024)
- Stern rail-mounted EPIRB
- Life ring
- Stern rail-mounted life ring
- Life Sling with stern rail case
- Electric solenoid propane shutoff
- Rule 3700 GPH sump and bilge pumps
- High water alarm
- Manual bilge pump
- No liferaft
Tender
- Highfield 310 aluminum/Hypalon inflatable dinghy (1/2024)
- (2) Bench seats
- Bow locker
- Dry floor
- 9.8 HP Nissan two-stroke outboard (12/2025)
- 2-gallon bow locker fuel tank
- 6-gallon portable fuel tank
Engine Information
- Perkins 85 HP diesel
- 3,742 engine hours
Tankage
- Fresh Water: 380 gal (1,400 L) in (2) tanks beneath salon floor
- Fuel: 240 gal (900 L) in (2) tanks beneath salon floor
- Holding Tank: 620 gal
Owner's Comments and Boat History
The first two owners spent nearly ten years cruising South Florida, while the third owner explored Cartagena, Cuba, and Trinidad over the following nine years. The current owner and his wife have spent the past nineteen years cruising throughout the Caribbean, occasionally chartering to couples while exploring many remote anchorages and islands.
Jalapeño is currently hauled out in Grenada for hurricane season and has been consistently maintained to a high standard throughout her ownership.
Recent Maintenance
- Bottom stripped, faired, primed, and painted (12/2023)
- Bottom paint (12/2025)
- See individual systems for additional upgrade details
"My wife and I, when not on Jalapeño, lived in the mountains of Central Mexico, thus the name Jalapeño. I lived on a sailboat for 20 years in Miami and missed the cruising lifestyle. I decided that I would like to buy a boat that I could handle with my wife and one that would make her comfortable and not feel like she was 'camping out'. The Irwin 52, with its large tankage, spacious accommodations, and air conditioning, seemed to be a lot of boat for the money. My wife loves to cook, and the spacious, well-equipped galley became one of her favorite places aboard. At the beginning of our adventure she was somewhat reluctant, but after seven years of cruising the Caribbean she became more enthusiastic about returning to Jalapeño than I ever imagined.
I purchased Jalapeño in excellent condition and specifically chose her because of the hardtop cockpit enclosure, which set her apart from the other Irwin 52s on the market. We have sailed throughout nearly the entire Caribbean, east to west and north to south, in all types of weather. Even in the harshest wind and sea conditions, we have always felt safe and have consistently arrived ahead of the other cruising boats traveling with us."
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 7/15/26 | Initial price | $159,000 |
Videos from BVI Yacht Sales on this 1984 Irwin 52
1984 Irwin 52 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1984 Irwin 52
Customers frequently praise the 1984 Irwin 52 for its spacious and well-thought-out design, which offers ample room for both living and entertaining
Many appreciate the combination of comfort and performance, highlighting its sturdy construction and seaworthiness, making it a reliable choice for both experienced sailors and those new to the cruising lifestyle. The interior layout is often described as luxurious, featuring a generous salon with large windows that provide excellent natural light and views. Owners often commend the galley for its functionality and storage options, making meal preparation enjoyable even while at sea. Additionally, the Irwin 52's strong reputation for handling various sea conditions is a common theme in customer feedback, with sailors feeling confident in its capabilities during long passages. The classic lines and solid craftsmanship also receive numerous compliments, reflecting the boat's timeless appeal. Overall, feedback from owners indicates that the 1984 Irwin 52 is a well-loved vessel that balances elegance with practicality, making it a favorite for those looking to explore the open waters in style and comfort.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1984 Irwin 52 is a notable vessel, well-regarded in the sailing community for its unique blend of comfort and performance. Below are some of the pros and cons to consider when evaluating this sailboat:
Pros
Spacious Interior: The Irwin 52 boasts an expansive interior with ample living space, making it ideal for long-term cruising or liveaboard lifestyles. The layout typically includes multiple cabins, a generous salon, and well-equipped galley.
Solid Construction: Built during a time known for durable construction, many owners report that the Irwin 52 stands up well to the elements and shows great resilience over the years.
Performance Under Sail: Designed with an emphasis on performance, the Irwin 52 offers good sailing capabilities, with a powerful rig that can handle a variety of wind conditions.
Customization Options: Many of these boats have been customized by their owners, potentially offering upgraded systems, electronics, and interior finishes, allowing buyers to find a vessel that meets their specific needs.
Great for Entertaining: With its roomy layout and multiple deck areas, the Irwin 52 is excellent for entertaining guests, making it a popular choice for social sailors.
Cons
Age-Related Issues: Being a 1984 model, some Irwin 52s may present age-related challenges such as outdated systems or wear on various components, which may require maintenance or upgrades.
Weight: The boat’s larger size and weight may affect performance in lighter winds, making it less responsive compared to smaller, lighter cruisers.
Maintenance: Owners may find that the costs of upkeep can be higher due to the size and complexity of the systems onboard, particularly if significant repairs or replacements are needed.
Resale Value: As with many boats of a certain age, resale value can be a concern. Potential buyers may be cautious about older vessels, impacting market demand.
Limited Headroom: While many users appreciate the spacious nature of the Irwin 52, some areas may have limited headroom, which could be a consideration for taller individuals. The Irwin 52 from 1984 can be a fantastic choice for those looking to sail in comfort and style, but potential buyers should weigh these pros and cons carefully to ensure it meets their sailing goals.
Made For
The 1984 Irwin 52 is an exceptional choice for sailing enthusiasts looking for a spacious, comfortable, and versatile cruising yacht. It caters to a wide range of sailors, from families seeking an adventure on the water to experienced cruisers wanting a reliable vessel for long passages. Its generous living space, both in the cockpit and below deck, makes it ideal for entertaining guests or enjoying family time aboard. This model is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a well-crafted, durable sailboat that can handle various sea conditions with grace and ease. The boat’s powerful sailing performance and excellent stability also appeal to those who prioritize performance without sacrificing comfort. With its classic design and strong pedigree, the Irwin 52 serves as a perfect platform for exploring coastal waters or embarking on global adventures. Whether you’re a weekend sailor or a long-term cruiser, this yacht is designed to elevate your sailing experience.
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