GEM 550
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 18.04 ft |
| LWL | 16.67 ft |
| Beam | 7.91 ft |
| Draft | 3.28 ft/ 0.75 ft min |
| Displacement | 1,146 lb |
| Ballast | 397 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.5 kn |
About the GEM 550
Originaly designed as a European IOR Micro Tonner, but has become most popular in Australia where it is was still built, at least, until 2003. John Stockton Central Boating Services 10 Jenkins St Birkenhead Port Adelaide SA (08) 8242 0066
The Gem 550 is a compact, lightweight trailerable sloop designed by Rob Humphries and built by Central Boating Services. With only 40 hulls constructed in 1976, this rare vessel is characterized by its fractional sloop rig and fin keel configuration.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal cruising and trailerable sailing due to its low displacement of 1146.0 lb and manageable LOA of 18.04 ft. It appeals to owners seeking a simple, easily transportable day sailor or weekend cruiser rather than a heavy offshore passagemaker.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low displacement of 1146.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 3.03, the Gem 550 is not designed for bluewater cruising and is strictly limited to protected coastal waters.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include other 18-foot trailerable sloops from the mid-1970s, such as the O'Day 18 or Pearson 18, which share similar fractional rigging and trailerable dimensions. These boats offer similar ease of transport and coastal performance profiles.
Performance
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 18.04ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
3 reported issues across 3 systems for the GEM 550, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a GEM 550? 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 3 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
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