Hi Don,

"Is 55 the new 45—feet, that is? In much the same way that advances in healthcare have allowed us to feel younger than our years, technological innovations in sailhandling gear and mechanical propulsion have made yachts 50 to 60 feet long a breeze to sail, dock or anchor, even for sailors whose ages are approaching that of their boats’ LOA.

Within that size range, there is one sector that is booming—54 to 57 feet. “It’s a real sweet spot in the market,” says Barry Ashmore of Gunfleet Marine. “They have the comfort and seaworthiness of a big boat, but they can be sailed solo or by a couple.”

Jennifer Stewart of Berthon USA in Newport, Rhode Island, which represents Moody and Contest, agrees, attributing the growth in this size range to a change in attitude on the part of the older buyers who can afford to spend $1 to $2.5 million to buy one. “We’re fit,” she says, “and more able to handle a larger yacht.” Not that you necessarily need to spend a million-plus to buy into this size range: you can also get into a fully-specced Beneteau, Jeanneau, Hanse or Bavaria for much less than that."

http://www.sailmagazine.com/best-boats/life-55

best regards,

Jon