DICKERSON 50
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 50 ft |
| LWL | 38.75 ft |
| Beam | 13.75 ft |
| Draft | 6.5 ft |
| Displacement | 33,500 lb |
| Ballast | 13,999.6 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 8.3 kn |
About the DICKERSON 50
Keel/CB version - Draft: 5.17'BU/10'BD Cutter or ketch. Standard layout shown above.
The Dickerson 50 is a rare, heavy-displacement cruising ketch designed by Kaufman & Assoc. and built by Dickerson Boatbuilders (USA) in 1982, with only 2 hulls constructed. Its substantial build quality and specific design lineage make it a unique specimen for collectors and serious offshore enthusiasts.
- Best for:
- This vessel is best suited for experienced bluewater cruisers who prioritize seakeeping and comfort over speed, particularly those who appreciate the traditional staysail ketch rig for its balanced sail plan and ease of handling.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 33500.0 lb and a low capsize ratio of 1.71, the Dickerson 50 is inherently stable and well-suited for offshore passages, offering a comfortable motion in heavy seas.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include other heavy-displacement American ketches from the early 1980s, such as the O'Day 50 or similar Kaufman designs, due to their shared emphasis on robust construction and offshore capability.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the DICKERSON 50 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 50ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
2 reported issues across 2 systems for the DICKERSON 50, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a DICKERSON 50? 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 2 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
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Used sails that fit the DICKERSON 50
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…