MASON 53
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 53.5 ft |
| LWL | 39.75 ft |
| Beam | 14.83 ft |
| Draft | 6.87 ft |
| Shoal Draft | 5.75 ft |
| Displacement | 38,600 lb |
| Ballast | 14,359.2 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 8.4 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 59.84 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 21 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 53.16 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 22.23 ft |
| PYmizzen luff | 29.33 ft |
| EYmizzen foot | 10.91 ft |
| FLforestay | 21 ft |
| Mainsail | 1,266.5 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 628.3 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 1,068.1 sq ft |
About the MASON 53
Mason design # S-105. Aft and center cockpit versions. Cutter or staysail ketch.
The Mason 53 is a robust cutter designed by Al Mason and built by Ta Shing Yacht Buildling (TAIWAN) between 1982 and 1989. While the exact number of hulls built is unknown, the vessel is characterized by its substantial displacement of 38600.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 37.48, indicating a heavy, stable platform.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and those seeking a comfortable, heavy-displacement passage maker who prioritize stability and interior volume over high-speed performance.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.76 and a displacement of 38600.0 lb, the Mason 53 is well-suited for bluewater cruising, offering excellent stability and seakeeping in heavy weather.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Hallberg-Rassy 53 and the O'Day 54, as they share similar heavy-displacement characteristics, cutter rigs, and a focus on safe, comfortable offshore cruising from the same era.
Direct variant of the MASON 53
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
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 53.5ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
5 reported issues across 4 systems for the MASON 53, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a MASON 53? 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 5 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 MASON 53?
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: Yanmar, Perkins — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the MASON 53
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…