COLUMBIA 5.5

About the COLUMBIA 5.5

First advertised (1963) as the COLUMBIA CLASS. The COLUMBIA 5.5 has it's origins with 'Carina', a 5.5 METER designed and built by Sigurd Herburn of Norway, winner of the 1958 Scandinavian Gold Cup. It is said that Columbia used this boat as a plug, (with a few modifications) to build it's own fiberglass version. Though a development class, no fiberglass 5.5 meters had been built at this time. The International 5.5 meter governing body decided that it did not conform to the class rules. The COLUMBIA 5.5 was raced as a one design class on the west coast US for a few years. Later it was modified and received a new model designation COLUMBIA SABRE, a cruising version with a trunk cabin, bunks for four and other amenities. Between 300 and 400 SABRES were built between 1963 and 1969. A similar version was also built by Ericson Yachts as the SCORPION 32 (almost certainly from the same molds).

Designed by Sigurd Herburn/Columbia Yachts and built by Glas Laminates (USA), the Columbia 5.5 is a compact cruiser with a production run of 1963–1965 resulting in 50 hulls built. This lightweight fractional sloop offers a blend of classic aesthetics and manageable dimensions, appealing to owners seeking a vintage package with modern upgrade potential.

Best for:

This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize ease of handling and trailerability over heavy offshore endurance. Its light displacement and fractional rig make it particularly well-suited for single-handers or couples looking for a responsive, low-maintenance classic.

Bluewater capability:

With a displacement of 4500.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 1.52, the Columbia 5.5 is primarily a coastal cruiser rather than a dedicated bluewater passagemaker. Its light weight and fin keel provide good performance in moderate conditions but limit its suitability for heavy offshore weather.

Comparables:

Comparable boats include the Pearson 303 and O'Day 30, which share similar era, fractional sloop rigs, and trailerable footprints. These vessels offer similar coastal cruising capabilities with comparable beam and draft profiles for easy storage and transport.