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Sailboat Specifications

Ct 54

Staysail Ketch · Long Keel

Designed by Robert Perry · Built by Ta Chaio Shipbuilding Co. (Taiwan) · First built 1975

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LOA 54.00 ft  ·  Beam 15.25 ft  ·  Displacement 57,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 1,246.00 ft²  ·  Staysail Ketch  ·  Long Keel
About the Ct 54 Sailboat

Designed by renowned naval architect Robert Perry and built by Taiwan's Ta Chaio Shipbuilding from 1975 to 1981, this 54-foot staysail ketch represents classic blue-water cruising at its finest. With only 100 hulls produced during its six-year run, the Ct 54 has earned a reputation as a serious offshore passage maker favored by experienced cruisers seeking traditional sailing characteristics. The long keel configuration and substantial 57,000-pound displacement create exceptional directional stability and seakindly motion in heavy weather, while the 16,500 pounds of ballast provide reassuring stability for ocean crossings. Perry's design philosophy shines through in the moderate sail area of 1,246 square feet, distributed across the staysail ketch rig that offers excellent balance and versatility for shorthanded sailing. The impressive comfort ratio of 50.92 indicates outstanding motion comfort in seaway conditions, making this yacht particularly suited for extended offshore voyaging rather than coastal day sailing. Built with solid fiberglass construction, these boats have proven their durability over decades of ocean sailing. While not designed for racing, the Ct 54 delivers reliable passage times with a theoretical hull speed of 8.74 knots, powered by a robust 120-horsepower engine for calm conditions and harbor maneuvering.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 54.00 ft / 16.46 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 42.50 ft / 12.95 m
Beam 15.25 ft / 4.65 m
Max Draft 6.50 ft / 1.98 m
Displacement 57,000.00 lb / 25,855 kg
Ballast 16,500.00 lb / 7,484 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 1,246.00 ft² / 115.76 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Long Keel
Rigging Type Staysail Ketch
Construction FG
Designer Robert Perry
Builder Ta Chaio Shipbuilding Co. (TAIWAN)
First Built 1975
Last Built 1981
Number Built 100
Related Sailboats Tayana 55 · Mason 53 · Skye 54 · Whitby 55 · Alajuela 48
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Ford Lehman
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 120
Fuel Capacity 300 gals / 1,136 L
Water Capacity 300 gals / 1,136 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ct 54's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Ct 54 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 13.52. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Ct 54's comfort ratio?

The Ct 54 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 50.92. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Ct 54 safe for offshore sailing?

The Ct 54 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.59. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Ct 54?

The theoretical hull speed of the Ct 54 is 8.74 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Ct 54 weigh?

The Ct 54 has a displacement of 57,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 54.00 ft.

Who designed the Ct 54?

The Ct 54 was designed by Robert Perry, first built in 1975.