Introduction: Getting Started With Fairline Yachts Squadron 50
Buying a Fairline Yachts Squadron 50 can be an exciting and important choice for anyone interested in owning a comfortable and reliable yacht. It’s essential to gather as much information as possible to make sure your expectations match what you’ll find on board. Knowing what the Fairline Squadron 50 offers, how it’s built, what features are included, and how it handles on the water will help you feel confident as you consider your options. This yacht is popular among families, couples, and groups who want to spend relaxed time on the water, sometimes for days or even weeks at a time. Before moving forward, it’s helpful to learn about its specifics in design, performance, everyday use, and long-term care. Doing your research now will make your experience as an owner far smoother and more enjoyable.
When you first think about owning a Fairline Squadron 50, it’s a good idea to stop and map out your personal expectations. What do you want your time on the yacht to look like? How many people do you want to comfortably accommodate? Do you prefer lounging in the sun, inviting family and friends, or exploring different harbors? Laying out your main goals early in the process gives you a clearer vision and helps you spot the right features as you read about this popular yacht. Taking the time to look closely at Fairline’s design choices, from its sleeping quarters to its cockpit spaces, will guarantee that you find something that matches both your routine and your wish list.
Understanding how this yacht is used in real life is another key step. Current and past owners have shared their experiences, and many talk about the details that make a difference: the flow of the seating, the views from inside, and the easy access to water activities. These kinds of stories can give you insight into what daily life would be like aboard a Squadron 50. You’ll quickly come to see that a well-informed purchase is about more than just the specs; it’s about picturing yourself using and enjoying every feature aboard your new yacht.
The Squadron 50 In Detail: Dimensions and Hull Design
The Fairline Squadron 50 stands out as a mid-sized yacht, measuring close to 50 feet in length overall, with a beam (width at the widest point) usually in the range of 14 to 15 feet. This footprint allows for a strong mix of spacious living areas and easy-to-handle dimensions, making it appealing for both new yacht owners and those moving up from a smaller boat. Its draft—a measure of how deep the bottom of the yacht sits in the water—strikes a balance between stability and flexibility for entering different types of marinas and harbors.
The hull is made using fiberglass with reinforcing structures that add strength but keep weight manageable. Fairline’s construction process focuses on making the hull sturdy without sacrificing performance, meaning you can expect secure movement even in differing water conditions. The hull design features a moderate V-shape, which is engineered to reduce pounding through waves and deliver a smoother ride for guests and crew alike. Owners often point out how the yacht maintains course well while underway and how the hull’s shape helps keep things stable even when facing light chop or rolling waters.
A close look at the hull also reveals details like spray rails and molded strakes. These features run along the bottom and sides, helping to direct water away from the deck and increase speed without extra fuel use. They also add to the handling, making the yacht more responsive to steering inputs. The hull’s construction is completed with multiple layers of gelcoat for a classic, glossy look and to shield the fiberglass from the harsh marine environment.
Accommodations: Interior Layout and Sleeping Quarters
The Fairline Squadron 50 is arranged for comfort, privacy, and practicality. There is usually a three-cabin configuration, with a master suite located mid-ship. This main cabin includes a full-sized island bed, reading lights, bedside storage cabinets, and nearest access to a spacious, private bathroom featuring a walk-in shower, modern sink, and cabinetry for storing toiletries and towels. The materials and finishes are chosen for both durability and easy cleaning, and often include light woods, marine-grade upholstery, and touches like LED lighting.
The guest cabin, typically at the bow (front) of the yacht, is designed to suit visiting friends or family members. This cabin usually features twin beds that can be joined to form a full-sized berth, hanging lockers, and windows for natural daylight. Thoughtful details like blackout blinds and ventilation hatches make it comfortable whether you’re at anchor or in a marina. A third cabin, located starboard and accessible from the passageway, can be set up with twin bunks or used for crew. Families with children or owners who travel with extra guests find this third cabin especially useful.
Bathrooms, or “heads,” are placed conveniently near each cabin and include electric marine toilets, solid countertops, mirrored cabinets, and proper showers with doors or curtains to keep water contained. Each head is fitted with extractor fans and opening portholes to keep air fresh and humidity under control. All cabins and heads are equipped with plenty of storage for clothing, towels, and personal electronics, helping the space feel tidy for longer trips.
Galley and Dining Arrangements
The galley of the Fairline Squadron 50 is equipped for full meal prep while underway or docked. Standard equipment includes a refrigerator and freezer, a three-burner cooktop, electric oven or microwave, stainless steel sink with a folding faucet, and ample solid-surface countertop space for food prep. There are overhead lockers and under-counter drawers for dry goods, dinnerware, and kitchen tools. Some layouts also include a built-in dishwasher or extra chilled drawers for beverages and perishable items.
Right next to the galley is the dining space, set up with a U-shaped settee wrapped around a table that can be adjusted for height. This area is located to take advantage of large windows, which let in light and offer wide views across the water, so meals always feel special. The flexibility of the table and seating layout means you can use this space for casual snacks, formal meals, or even work if you bring a laptop or paperwork along.
Access between the galley, dining space, and salon is uncomplicated, thanks to the open-plan design. This setup makes it easy for the cook to participate in conversations and for guests to move freely between food, seating, and outdoor decks. Overhead lights and shaded lamps are adjusted by dimmer switches for custom brightness at any time of day.
Salon and Lounging Areas
The salon on the Squadron 50 is the main indoor social area. It is finished with L-shaped or straight sofas, a coffee table, and sometimes an entertainment system with a TV hidden in a pop-up cabinet. Big side windows provide panoramic views and plenty of daylight, helped by light-colored headliners and flooring that brighten the whole space. Accent lighting, such as LED strips beneath seating or in shelf nooks, adds a warm touch at night.
Owners find there is plenty of space for relaxing, hosting movie nights, or reading during rainy afternoons. Sliding glass doors connect the salon directly to the aft deck, making the indoor-outdoor flow smooth during the day and into the evening. Upholstered armchairs, optional poufs, and folding tables give flexibility to arrange the room for different groups or activities.
Shelves, cabinets, and drawers throughout the salon help keep drinks, books, magazines, and small electronics organized and off the cushions. The climate control vents are directed to avoid creating cold or hot spots, so the entire salon stays at a comfortable temperature. Electrical outlets and USB charging ports are available for keeping devices powered up while spending more time inside.
The Flybridge: Outdoor Living and Entertainment
The flybridge is often one of the Squadron 50’s most used and enjoyed features. It’s designed to give you a comfortable outdoor living space, with wraparound seating, a second helm station for driving from above, and options for sun pads, undercover dining, or a wet bar. The layout allows several guests to relax here at once, whether they are sunbathing, enjoying lunch, or chatting with the captain while underway.
Most layouts offer a table in the middle, adjustable to switch between dining and lounging positions. The helm seat rotates so the driver can join in when docked or anchored. The flybridge is fitted with a small fridge, sink, and sometimes a grill for easy outdoor food prep. Cup holders and handrails are placed throughout for convenience and safety.
Protection from the sun and rain is provided by a bimini top, hardtop, or fold-out canopy, so the flybridge stays usable in different types of weather. Speakers for the entertainment system can be controlled independently here for music or radio without having to go below deck. The nonskid flooring and securely fastened cushions mean you can walk and sit with confidence, even if the yacht is rocking gently.
Cockpit and Aft Deck
The main cockpit is found at the rear (aft) of the yacht. This is a favorite spot for morning coffee, evening drinks, or simply watching the movement in a busy marina. There is typically a large bench seat or modular seating that can be arranged to fit different events or guest numbers. Removable tables allow for easy setup of meals or games, and lighting overhead makes the space usable late into the night.
Stairs from the cockpit lead down to the hydraulic swim platform. This platform lowers into the water, helping guests get in and out easily when swimming or using water toys, and lifts tender boats or jet skis up out of the way for transport. The swim platform can also be used while anchored for relaxing close to the water. Deck lockers nearby hold water sports gear, hoses, cleaning supplies, and boarding ladders.
Wide walkways with stainless rails connect the cockpit to the foredeck, offering secure passage to the bow. Non-slip surfaces and grab handles make it safe for children and adults to move around the exterior. When anchored, the bow area is a popular place for sunbathing or watching the sunset.
Helm and Driving Experience
Operating the Fairline Squadron 50 is generally straightforward, thanks to clearly laid out controls and modern navigation aids. Both the lower helm—inside the main salon—and the upper helm—on the flybridge—offer full command of the yacht’s engines and systems. Controls include throttles, bow and stern thruster joysticks for close-quarters handling, the steering wheel, and touchscreen displays for GPS, radar, sonar, and autopilot.
The main helm seat is often adjustable for height and angle, and large windows in the salon provide wide outward views so you’re always aware of your surroundings. Instrumentation is placed so the dials, gauges, and screens can be read quickly. Overhead panels keep switches for things like lights, windshield wipers, and horn easy to reach but out of the way.
When cruising, the hull shape and balanced weight make manual steering comfortable, with little need to correct course unless water is especially choppy. On the flybridge, the raised perspective gives extra visibility, which helps when maneuvering in tight harbors or around obstacles. Both helm positions include communication radio controls, so the skipper can talk with marinas or nearby boats at any time.
Engine Options, Range, and Performance
The Fairline Squadron 50 is typically powered by a pair of inboard diesel engines from a major brand such as Volvo Penta. Common engine models include the Volvo Penta D8 or similar, giving power in the 600-700 horsepower per engine range. These engines are chosen for their efficiency, reliability, and strong support through service networks.
With both engines running, the Squadron 50 can cruise comfortably at speeds of 20-25 knots, with a top speed that often reaches above 30 knots, depending on load and sea state. Fuel tank capacity for this yacht is generous, usually about 400-500 gallons, providing a range that allows for extended trips or whole days out with time to spare. Engine access is through a hatch in the aft deck, with space around each engine for routine inspection and servicing.
The yacht is fitted with sound insulation around the engine compartment to reduce noise in the salon and cabins when underway. Fuel, oil, and coolant filters are mounted for quick changes, and bilge spaces are arranged to keep water away from mechanical components. Engine controls also include monitoring screens that display fuel level, oil pressure, temperature, and alerts for scheduled maintenance.
Mechanical and Utility Systems
The electrical system on the Squadron 50 includes shore power connections, a large bank of house batteries, dedicated engine start batteries, and sometimes a built-in generator for keeping appliances running when anchored. Circuit breakers and fuses are located in labeled panels both above and below deck. The layout is designed so owners or technicians can quickly track down and reset any tripped circuits.
The freshwater system uses an onboard tank, usually about 120-150 gallons, with a pressurized pump delivering water to sinks, showers, and the galley. Hot water is supplied by a heater, which works off shore power, generator, or engine heat when underway. Wastewater is directed to holding tanks with level indicators, and the tanks can be emptied at proper pump-out stations.
Air conditioning and heating systems draw energy from the generator or shore power, with separate zones controlled from the salon and cabins. Ventilation fans in the heads remove humidity and odor. The yacht also includes a fire suppression system in the engine compartment that is monitored from the helm. Bilge pumps are automatic but can be switched to manual for emergency use.
Storage and Use of Space
Owners appreciate the Squadron 50 for its intelligent use of available space. Built-in cabinets and drawers line the cabins, salon, and galley, while under-seat storage in the cockpit and flybridge keeps extra gear out of the way. Hanging lockers in the master and guest staterooms have space for jackets, dresses, and shoes. The bathroom cabinets hold plenty of hygiene products, face towels, and medicines.
Outdoor lockers are found along the transom and on the foredeck, made to be waterproof for storing fenders, ropes, and deck brushes. The galley includes slide-out pantry units, spice racks, and holders for glassware. Built-in shelves in the salon and at the helm help keep electronics, charts, and manuals organized and protected. The tender garage, usually under the aft bench seat, gives a safe home for small boats or water toys.
Owner Feedback and Experiences
Owners of the Fairline Squadron 50 often highlight its feeling of space and comfort for a vessel of its size. Reviews mention that even with several guests, the layout never feels cramped. The open salon and direct connection to the cockpit make entertaining simple, and the flybridge becomes a favorite spot for relaxing and catching a breeze.
When it comes to handling, owners note that the combination of twin engines, bow and stern thrusters, and advanced navigation systems make docking and maneuvering more controllable than they expected. Even owners new to larger yachts say they quickly got used to the feel of the controls and found the learning curve manageable. The sound reduction in the cabins is another often-cited bonus, making it easy to rest even if some guests are active later into the night.
Maintenance access is another strong point, with all critical systems like filters, pumps, and valves located in areas that can be reached without special tools. Owners find that with regular checks and care, systems run smoothly and unexpected downtime is rare. Written documents and technical manuals are usually provided, helping owners stay on top of routine and preventive care.
Maintenance, Upkeep, and Long-Term Care
Like any yacht, the Squadron 50 benefits from regular cleaning and scheduled engine maintenance. Washing down the deck and hull removes salt and grime, while teak decks should be scrubbed with soft brushes and specialized cleaners to prevent mold or weathering. Wax and gelcoat polish keep the hull looking nice and add a protective layer against the sun’s UV rays.
Engine checks should be done before every trip, including oil level, coolant, and fuel filters. Service intervals for engines, pumps, and belts follow manufacturer recommendations and are tracked in the logbook for warranty and resale value. The air conditioning and refrigeration units need annual servicing to check for refrigerant leaks and blocked filters.
Interior maintenance includes regular vacuuming of carpeted areas, wiping down woodwork, and using mildew preventers in humid climates. Upholstery should be treated with fabric protectors to resist stains and spills. Storage lockers are emptied and dried at the end of season to prevent mold. Holding tanks for wastewater are pumped out regularly, and water tanks are cleaned a few times a year.
Electrical system care includes checking terminals for corrosion, inspecting chargers, and testing the generator under load. Bilge pumps, float switches, and alarms are tested monthly, and all fire safety systems are checked as part of an annual review. Owners often compile a maintenance checklist to use at the start and end of each outing.
Environmental Practices for Eco-Friendly Use
Operating your yacht responsibly is an important part of being a good steward of the water. Use biodegradable soaps and non-toxic cleaners for the hull and deck. Avoid spilling oil or fuel and store chemicals in leak-proof containers. Dispose of all trash and recycling ashore; never let plastic or waste go into the water.
Use pump-out stations for blackwater (toilet waste), and make sure the holding tank is not overfilled. Greywater from showers and sinks should be filtered to remove soap and debris. Use shore power when docked instead of running the generator, which cuts fuel use and noise pollution.
Anchor only in permitted areas to avoid damaging underwater habitats. When exploring new waters, observe local wildlife at a distance and avoid loud noise that can disturb animals. Educate your guests about the best practices, such as not feeding fish or birds and keeping a respectful distance from swimming creatures.
Tech Upgrades and Customization
Technology is always changing, and many owners choose to upgrade the electronics and comfort systems on their Squadron 50 over time. Popular additions include secondary chart plotters at the flybridge, more powerful radar, and internet boosting antennas for better coverage while at sea. Entertainment upgrades such as surround sound speakers, hidden TVs, and Bluetooth connections make relaxation easier.
Kitchen and galley upgrades might include a larger refrigerator, icemaker, or even a wine cooler. Some owners install solar panels on the hardtop to help keep batteries charged when away from shore. Remote monitoring systems can send alerts to your phone about battery voltage, temperature, and security status.
Comfort upgrades often focus on outdoor areas, with additional shading, weatherproof cushions, and removable sun awnings. Teak refinishing kits and anti-slip deck treatments help maintain a smart and safe look. Watermakers that convert sea water to fresh for washing and drinking are another possible improvement for longer trips. It’s best to work with authorized dealers for upgrades, ensuring all systems match the yacht’s wiring and plumbing and are installed to industry standards.
Safety and Security Features
Safety on board the Squadron 50 covers a range of systems. These yachts are equipped with multiple automatic and manual fire extinguishers, including a dedicated system for the engine room that can be monitored and triggered from the helm. Life jackets for all passengers, including child sizes, are stored in labeled lockers near the exits.
Flares, an emergency horn, first aid kit, and throwable life rings are all part of the safety inventory, while navigation lights, deck lighting, and horn all meet boating regulations. The yacht is equipped with automatic bilge pumps, backed up by manual pumps and high-water alarms that alert you at the helm if water levels rise unexpectedly.
Security cameras, motion sensors, and remote locks are available as options for added peace of mind, especially if you plan to leave the yacht docked and unattended for stretches of time. Entry doors and hatches are fitted with keyed locks. The electrical system is grounded properly, and ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) protect all outlets near sinks and wet areas.
Planning Trips and Day-To-Day Life Onboard
Sample routines on a Squadron 50 might include short day trips to local coves, weekend getaways with family, or even week-long cruises along the coast. Plan your provisions before each outing—fresh food, bottled water, basic snacks, cleaning products, and personal supplies for every guest. Each cabin has its own storage spots for clothing, shoes, and personal items so organizing for longer trips is easy.
Many owners keep a simple log or journal to remember which marinas were the best, which anchor spots were quietest, and what gear turned out to be the most useful. Use the navigation system to plan your routes and keep an eye on fuel use and weather. Checking the engine and safety systems each day will help spot any issues before they become real problems.
Plan a basic meals menu before setting out. The galley can accommodate most cooking, but prepping meals in advance or grilling outdoors makes life easier and cleanup quick. Make sure your first aid supplies are up to date and keep sunscreen, bug spray, and hats handy for all guests.
Social and Recreational Activities
There are many ways owners use the Squadron 50 for social activities. Set up the cockpit or flybridge for gatherings, with fold-out tables, portable coolers, and extra chairs if you expect more guests. Music on the outdoor speakers, games at the table, and snacks from the galley all help create a welcoming environment.
When anchored, the swim platform is a hub for water activities—swimming, paddle boarding, or launching inflatables. The hydraulic design lowers and raises the platform so everyone can get in and out easily. Keep water toys, snorkels, and inflatable life vests in the aft storage lockers for quick access.
Some owners use the sound system, pop-up TV, or projector screens for movies in the salon or on deck at night. LED deck lights and movable lanterns make evening gatherings comfortable and safe. For longer stays, create a routine to rinse off gear, hang up towels, and keep open areas free of clutter.
Understanding the Purchase Process
Buying a Fairline Squadron 50 usually follows a step-by-step process. Start by researching listings from brokers with experience selling these yachts. Make appointments to view different models in person, and compare layout, upgrades, and overall condition. Arrange a sea trial to check performance, noise, handling, and visibility from both helm positions.
Review the maintenance history, including records of engine service, winterization, and any refits or upgrades. Get a full survey from a certified marine surveyor who will inspect the hull, deck, machinery, and electrical systems. This step is especially important if you are considering a pre-owned yacht, as it can identify hidden issues that may not be obvious from a simple walk-through.
Once you are satisfied, work with your broker to negotiate the final price and complete the paperwork. This includes checking title, registration, and documentation of all included gear and upgrades. Insurance, warranties, and mooring arrangements should be confirmed before finalizing the handover.
Working With Yacht Brokers
A good brokerage acts as your partner during the buying process, helping you compare different models, arrange viewing times, and review surveys and documentation. Experienced brokers can answer questions about which upgrades are most popular, the best years for certain features or layouts, and the average resale values for the Squadron 50 range.
They also guide you through the closing steps—organizing test drives, handling required documentation, and making sure all commitments on both the buyer and seller sides are fulfilled. Relying on an established brokerage with a track record in this yacht segment can save you time, help you avoid pitfalls, and provide valuable resources like recommended maintenance providers, service yards, and crew placement, if needed.
Customizing Your Experience
Each owner’s use of the Squadron 50 is a little different and personal touches go a long way. Some invest in upgraded bedding, window shades, and custom carpets for extra comfort. Others add equipment like ice makers, espresso machines, or even a collapsible bike stored in the cockpit for trips ashore.
Personalizing cushions and throw pillow covers or adding framed pictures and decorative lighting can make the yacht feel even more like home. For more active use, organize storage bins in the heads and under the beds for sports gear, toys, or fishing tackle. Modular storage trays and labeled bins add to the efficiency, especially when guests switch often or kids bring friends.
Owner Networks, Groups, and Support
Fairline and general boating communities offer a wealth of information, including owner’s groups, online message boards, and planned events. Joining these networks often gives you advice from other owners about the best anchorages, how to tackle common repairs, or opinions on upgrades. Many marinas host monthly meetups or sponsor annual cruises for Squadron and other Fairline yacht owners.
Participating in discussions or reviews helps you understand how owners handle real-world situations, such as stormy weather, marina etiquette, or finding parts and service on the go. Some brokerages even connect new owners with mentors who can answer practical questions during the first few months of ownership.
Preparing for Ownership: What To Do Before and After Delivery
Before your Squadron 50 is delivered, make a checklist that covers all systems and inventory. Walk through the entire yacht with your broker or delivery technician, making sure you know how to operate major systems—engines, generator, bilge pumps, battery switches, water heater, and navigation gear. Review how to handle fuel, water, and waste tank filling and emptying. Mark the location of spare parts, tools, and emergency gear so you can grab them quickly as needed.
After delivery, plan a short overnight trip as a “shakedown cruise” to get to know where everything is and sort out any forgotten supplies or troubleshooting needs. Test every feature, from the highest speed and anchor windlass to lights, ventilation, doors, and hatches. Bring a basic toolbox and a notebook to list questions or ideas for future upgrades.
Getting the Most Out of Every Outing
Use each trip to refine your routine—make a list of what works well and what could be improved. Keep the most-used supplies at arm’s reach and move less important items to locker storage. Organize paperwork, electronics, and manuals in labeled binders so you can find what you need at a moment’s notice.
Remind family and guests about basic safety rules and keep life jackets out where they are visible on embarkation. Use white boards or sticky notes to leave reminders for upcoming maintenance, birthdays, or the next cruise plan. Over time, building routines helps everyone feel more confident and relaxed.
Summary: Final Thoughts on Squadron 50 Ownership
Taking the time to learn every detail about the Fairline Yachts Squadron 50 will pay off in a smoother, more rewarding ownership experience. This yacht is built to offer flexibility, durability, and comfort, making time on the water enjoyable for both owners and guests. Start by mapping out your needs, focusing on specific features that matter most for your family or group, and involving knowledgeable professionals at each step.
Inspect every feature first-hand and use available checklists to verify system operation and documentation. Plan for long-term maintenance and think through how your own upgrades could improve comfort and use. Talk to current and past owners, and don’t be afraid to ask questions—a little guidance from those who have been through the process already can save you plenty of time and effort down the line.
For more detailed information or to arrange a personalized tour, talk to a Fly Yachts team member today. They are ready to provide hands-on support and help answer any questions you have about making the Fairline Yachts Squadron 50 your best investment yet.
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