The Bill Tripp designed Columbia 50 debuted in 1965 and was the largest production fiberglass sailboat at that time. It was in production until at least 1982. The original design was sloop rigged, but it was also available as a schooner.

There has been some discussion on the mailing list about Sailcrafter 50s. According to a Columbia history found in some owners manuals, Columbia offerred yacht “kits” under the name Sailcrafter during the years 1971-1974. The C-50 apparently was one of models offerred. The Sailcrafter has an additional skeg between the keel and the rudder. I wonder if this was done to improve the design or if it was to strengthen the hull for shipping – or both?

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Cruising Boat Spotlight: The Columbia 50