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Sailboat Specifications

Helmsman 47

Fractional Sloop · Fin Keel

Built by Helmsman Yachts (Den) · First built 1981

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LOA 47.00 ft  ·  Beam 11.78 ft  ·  Displacement 24,912.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 949.00 ft²  ·  Fractional Sloop  ·  Fin Keel
About the Helmsman 47 Sailboat

Built by the respected Danish yard Helmsman Yachts beginning in 1981, this 47-footer represents European design philosophy at its finest, combining seaworthiness with comfortable cruising capabilities. The substantial displacement of nearly 25,000 pounds and deep 7.55-foot draft create a stable platform that inspires confidence in challenging conditions, while the generous beam of nearly 12 feet provides impressive interior volume for extended voyaging. The fractional sloop rig configuration offers excellent sail handling characteristics, particularly beneficial for short-handed sailing. With a sail area of 949 square feet driving the substantial displacement, the boat prioritizes steady progress over outright speed, making it well-suited for serious offshore cruising rather than racing applications. The fin keel design strikes an effective balance between directional stability and maneuverability in tight quarters. Danish construction standards shine through in the robust fiberglass build quality, designed to handle the demanding conditions of Northern European waters. The comfort ratio of 33.68 indicates this yacht will provide a smooth, comfortable ride in moderate seas, while the capsize screening value suggests good stability characteristics for coastal and offshore passages. Hull speed potential of 8.58 knots offers respectable performance for a cruising-oriented design of this era.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 47.00 ft / 14.33 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 41.00 ft / 12.50 m
Beam 11.78 ft / 3.59 m
Max Draft 7.55 ft / 2.30 m
Displacement 24,912.00 lb / 11,300 kg
Ballast 10,582.00 lb / 4,800 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 949.00 ft² / 88.16 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin Keel
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG
Builder Helmsman Yachts (DEN)
First Built 1981
Related Sailboats Valiant 47 · Swan 46 · Hylas 47 · Bristol 477 · Ct 47
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Bukh
Engine Model DV 36
Engine Type Diesel
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Helmsman 47's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Helmsman 47 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.87. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Helmsman 47's comfort ratio?

The Helmsman 47 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 33.68. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Helmsman 47 safe for offshore sailing?

The Helmsman 47 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.62. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Helmsman 47?

The theoretical hull speed of the Helmsman 47 is 8.58 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Helmsman 47 weigh?

The Helmsman 47 has a displacement of 24,912.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 47.00 ft.