1978 Irwin 52 Staysail Ketch Sold Boat in Jacksonville, FL US
52 Staysail Ketch
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52 feet
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Fiberglass/Reinforced
1978 Irwin 52' Center Cockpit, Staysail Ketch
A beautiful classic cruiser that has been restored from stem to stern. She is well maintained with many upgrades, and will allow her next owners to cruise in comfort and safety.
1978 Irwin 52' Center Cockpit, Staysail Ketch
A beautiful classic cruiser that has been restored from stem to stern. She is well maintained with many upgrades, and will allow her next owners to cruise in comfort and safety.
Overview from around the web 1978 Irwin 52 Staysail Ketch
Customers praise the 1978 Irwin 52 Staysail Ketch for its robust construction and spacious interior, making it an excellent choice for extended cruising
Many highlight its classic ketch rig, which offers versatile sail handling and balanced performance in various wind conditions. Owners appreciate the comfortable living quarters, ample storage, and the boat's ability to handle offshore passages with confidence. Overall, the Irwin 52 Staysail Ketch is regarded as a reliable and well-designed vessel that combines traditional styling with practical functionality.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1978 Irwin 52 Staysail Ketch is a classic cruising yacht known for its robust construction and comfortable accommodations. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Solid Build Quality: Constructed with a heavy fiberglass hull, the Irwin 52 offers durability and stability in various sea conditions.
Spacious Interior: Generous cabin space with multiple berths, a full galley, and ample storage, making it ideal for extended cruising.
Staysail Ketch Rig: The ketch rig with a staysail provides versatile sail plan options, easier sail handling, and balanced performance, especially in heavy weather.
Good Tankage: Large fuel and water tanks support long passages without frequent resupply.
Traditional Aesthetics: Classic lines and a full keel provide a timeless look and steady tracking.
Cons
Heavy Displacement: The boat’s weight can limit speed and responsiveness compared to lighter modern designs.
Maintenance: Older fiberglass construction and traditional fittings may require more upkeep and occasional upgrades.
Outdated Systems: Original onboard systems like electrical, plumbing, and navigation gear often need modernization.
Limited Performance: The ketch rig and full keel combination can make the boat slower, particularly in light winds.
Size and Handling: At 52 feet, the boat may require a skilled crew for docking and maneuvering in tight spaces.
Made For
The 1978 Irwin 52 Staysail Ketch is ideal for experienced sailors and cruising enthusiasts seeking a spacious, sturdy, and comfortable vessel for extended offshore voyages. Its robust construction, traditional ketch rig, and ample deck and cabin space make it perfect for long-distance cruising, liveaboard lifestyles, and adventurous sailors who value reliability and classic design in a bluewater sailboat.
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Jacksonville, FL






























