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Sailboat Specifications

Kaufman 47

Cutter · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by M. Kaufmann · Built by Kirie (Fra) · First built 1986

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LOA 47.00 ft  ·  Beam 13.75 ft  ·  Displacement 30,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 1,002.00 ft²  ·  Cutter  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Kaufman 47 Sailboat

Built by French yard Kirie between 1986 and 1988, this substantial 47-footer represents Marc Kaufmann's approach to serious blue-water cruising. The design emphasizes seaworthiness and comfort over pure performance, evident in its robust 30,000-pound displacement and conservative proportions that deliver excellent stability for offshore passages. The fin keel and skeg-mounted rudder configuration provides good tracking and protection for the steering gear, while the 7-foot draft offers impressive stability without compromising access to most cruising destinations. Her cutter rig with 1,002 square feet of sail area provides versatile sail handling options, particularly valuable when short-handed or in challenging conditions. With a comfort ratio of 33.48 and capsize screening formula of 1.77, the Kaufman 47 falls squarely in the category of capable ocean cruisers rather than coastal daysailers. The generous beam of 13.75 feet translates to spacious accommodations below, while the moderate sail-area-to-displacement ratio of 16.67 suggests steady rather than spirited performance. Though production was limited to just three years, those seeking a well-built European cruiser designed for extended voyaging will find the Kaufman 47 offers the heavy-displacement characteristics that inspire confidence in serious offshore sailing.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 47.00 ft / 14.33 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 40.16 ft / 12.24 m
Beam 13.75 ft / 4.19 m
Max Draft 7.00 ft / 2.13 m
Displacement 30,000.00 lb / 13,608 kg
Ballast 10,700.00 lb / 4,853 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 1,002.00 ft² / 93.09 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Cutter
Construction FG
Designer M. Kaufmann
Builder Kirie (FRA)
First Built 1986
Last Built 1988
Related Sailboats Hylas 47 · Valiant 47 · Swan 46 · Bristol 477 · Ct 47
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Type Diesel
Fuel Capacity 100 gals / 379 L
Water Capacity 225 gals / 852 L
Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Kaufman 47 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.67. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Kaufman 47's comfort ratio?

The Kaufman 47 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 33.48. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Kaufman 47 safe for offshore sailing?

The Kaufman 47 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.77. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Kaufman 47?

The theoretical hull speed of the Kaufman 47 is 8.49 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Kaufman 47 weigh?

The Kaufman 47 has a displacement of 30,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 47.00 ft.

Who designed the Kaufman 47?

The Kaufman 47 was designed by M. Kaufmann, first built in 1986.