Originating from Scandinavia, the Swede 55 is a classic one-design keelboat with a loyal following among sailors who appreciate purposeful, performance-oriented design. Built for competitive racing, this boat earned its reputation on the racecourse as a responsive and demanding vessel that rewards skilled helmsmanship and precise crew work. The Swede 55 reflects the clean, efficient aesthetic characteristic of Scandinavian yacht design, prioritizing speed and handling over interior comfort. Its one-design nature means that racing within the class is decided by skill rather than equipment, making it a compelling choice for competitive sailors who enjoy a level playing field. The boat's heritage lends it a certain timeless appeal, and active class associations in various regions have helped maintain a vibrant secondhand market and a community of dedicated owners. While the Swede 55 is primarily a racing platform rather than a cruising yacht, its sailing characteristics make it an exhilarating boat to sail in a variety of conditions. Prospective buyers should expect a vessel that prioritizes performance above all else, suited to day racing and inshore competition rather than extended offshore passages.
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What is the Swede 55's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Swede 55 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.1. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Swede 55's comfort ratio?
The Swede 55 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 29.35. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Swede 55 safe for offshore sailing?
The Swede 55 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.5. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Swede 55?
The theoretical hull speed of the Swede 55 is 8.37 knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Swede 55 weigh?
The Swede 55 has a displacement of 16,640.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 53.00 ft.
Who designed the Swede 55?
The Swede 55 was designed by Knud Reimers, first built in 1975.