BRISTOL 51
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 51.08 ft |
| LWL | 42 ft |
| Beam | 15.17 ft |
| Draft | 10.5 ft/ 5.33 ft min |
| Displacement | 43,700 lb |
| Ballast | 19,000.8 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 8.7 kn |
About the BRISTOL 51
Similar to BRISTOL 51.1. Bristol's of this size and vintage were built on a semi-custom basis so particulars vary.
The Bristol 51 is a rare, heavy-displacement cruising sloop designed by Dieter Empacher and built by the Bristol Boat Company in the USA. Production was limited to the year 1990, with the exact number of hulls built remaining unconfirmed in available records.
- Best for:
- This vessel is best suited for experienced coastal cruisers and bluewater adventurers who prioritize seakeeping comfort and robust construction over high-speed performance. Its substantial displacement and beam make it ideal for those seeking a stable, comfortable passage-making platform.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 43700.0 lb, a low capsize ratio of 1.73, and a full/long keel, the Bristol 51 is well-suited for offshore cruising. Its high comfort ratio of 40.39 suggests excellent motion comfort in heavy seas, supporting its reputation as a capable bluewater cruiser.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include the Hallberg-Rassy 53 and the Swan 52, as they share similar heavy-displacement characteristics and full-keel or long-keel designs from the late 1980s and early 1990s. These boats are similar in their focus on offshore safety and comfort rather than racing pedigree.
Direct variant of the BRISTOL 51
Near-identical models — same hull, builder and designer, re-badged or lightly changed. Specs and owner-reported issues are typically shared across the group, so a sister model's page may carry detail this one doesn't.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the BRISTOL 51 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 51.08ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
1 reported issues across 1 systems for the BRISTOL 51, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a BRISTOL 51? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 1 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your BRISTOL 51?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Westerbeke — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the BRISTOL 51
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…