Newporter 52?

shapz · #1 (**permalink**) 01-06-2010

Has anyone heard of or had experience with a Newporter 52' I read a lot about 40's but not 52's. There's one for sale near me at what appears to be a very good price, but I can't seem to find anything about this make in this length. Any help appreciated.
Thomas in Olympia, Washington

tager · #2 (**permalink**) 01-07-2010

Yea I saw that ad on craigslist too. I can't imagine that $1500 for a 52' could ever be a good deal. It is probably going to cost you a lot of money to make her sail.

Then again it may just be in great condition with a completely clueless seller. (doubtful)

LazylighningII · #3 (**permalink**) 01-07-2010

That sounds like length over all LOA with bowsprit and davits that most of those boats have. As compared to length on deck LOD.

shapz · #4 (**permalink**) 01-07-2010

So...it may in reality be what would be commonly described as a Newporter 40?
What sort of reputation do these vessels have?

Jeff_H · #5 (**permalink**) 01-08-2010

These were inexpensive, ketch rigged motorsailers from the late 50's and early 1960's. They were constructed of marine grade fir plywood with a sheathing of polyester/fiberglass (some may have had polyester/dynel sheathing). They were roomy and shoal draft, pretty well constructed for what they were and sailed pretty well for a hardchine beamy 40 foot ketch. But by any objective standard, they were slow and rolly. The Fiberglass sheathing would have produced a moderately durable, low maintenance boat at least for the first few decades, but at this point, these boats would be very tired, (or should I say shot) or else thoroughly rebuilt (which I have think is not the case with a $1500.00 version).

Jeff

shapz · #6 (**permalink**) 01-09-2010

Thank you all for the information and advice! Much appreciated. I have a 1969 Cheoy Lee Offshore 27, but was just curious about the Newporter.
Again, thanks for the collective wisdom.

tager · #7 (**permalink**) 01-09-2010

Shapz. The offshore 27 is my dream boat. If you ever want to sell. Contact me.

CaptainGregClarke · #8 (**permalink**) 01-24-2010

I bought that Newporter. Well, there are those that suggest I stole it, but I was there first.

tager · #9 (**permalink**) 01-24-2010

Sweet how is it going?
I am about to buy a Haida 26 myself. Hopefully not much of a project.

hwlovett · #10 (**permalink**) 02-02-2010

I'm curious what kind of condition you found the boat in? Particularly, the hull, deck, and cabintop? Spars? Engine?

Thanks!