The Vicem 52 Classic is a yacht that blends timeless craftsmanship with modern performance, making it one of the most admired models in the Vicem lineup. Known for their handcrafted wooden builds and signature Down-East inspired designs, Vicem yachts have always stood out for their elegance, seaworthiness, and rich attention to detail. The 52 Classic carries that reputation forward, offering boaters a vessel that feels both traditional and contemporary at the same time.

This yacht is designed for those who love the warmth of woodwork, graceful lines, and hand-built quality, but also demand performance, reliability, and practical comfort. It is equally at home cruising inshore waters or heading offshore for longer journeys. With its fine balance of style and functionality, the Vicem 52 Classic is more than a yacht—it is an experience on the water, where heritage meets innovation.

The Purpose of the Vicem 52 Classic

At its core, the Vicem 52 Classic was built with a mission to provide long-range cruising comfort in a beautifully crafted package. Unlike many mass-produced yachts, each Vicem is handcrafted, and the 52 Classic continues this legacy by emphasizing personalized luxury and meticulous build quality. Its purpose is not only to perform but also to impress—owners often see it as a statement yacht, a reflection of refined taste and love for nautical tradition.

Beyond aesthetics, the yacht serves a practical role as a long-distance cruiser. With generous fuel capacity, efficient hull design, and strong construction, it allows owners to cover extended ranges with confidence. Whether island-hopping across the Caribbean, exploring the Mediterranean coastline, or enjoying extended weekends along the East Coast, the 52 Classic is designed to do it in comfort and style.

Who Is the Vicem 52 Classic For?

The Vicem 52 Classic is ideal for buyers who want more than just transportation on the water—they want a handcrafted yacht with character, history, and presence. It appeals to experienced boaters who appreciate traditional design but also demand modern amenities. Owners of this yacht are typically those who see value in artistry, custom craftsmanship, and owning something that feels unique compared to fiberglass competitors.

It’s also a strong choice for couples or families seeking a balance between weekend cruising and extended trips. With two or three stateroom layouts, it offers ample room for overnight stays, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying life aboard. The 52 Classic is a yacht for those who enjoy both form and function—those who want their vessel to not only perform but also inspire admiration wherever it goes.

How Does the Vicem 52 Classic Compare to Other Offshore Boats?

Compared to other offshore cruisers in its class, the Vicem 52 Classic distinguishes itself through craftsmanship and heritage. While brands like Sabre or Grand Banks also deliver Down-East style yachts, Vicem sets itself apart with its use of cold-molded mahogany construction, creating a lighter, stronger, and quieter hull.

Whereas many competitors lean heavily into modern composites and minimalist styling, Vicem leans into tradition without sacrificing innovation. The 52 Classic offers similar performance and efficiency to fiberglass yachts of comparable size, but its woodwork, finish, and classic lines create a sense of ownership pride that few rivals can match. For boaters who want a yacht that draws admiration at every marina, the Vicem 52 Classic holds a special place.

Design & Specifications

• Type: Classic Down-East Style Cruiser
• Length Overall (LOA): 52 ft
• Beam: 15 ft 5 in
• Draft: 4 ft 2 in
• Fuel Capacity: Approx. 660 gallons
• Engines: Twin Volvo Penta IPS or straight-shaft diesels, typically 600–725 HP each
• Top Speed: 26–30 knots (depending on engine package)
• Cruise Speed: 20–24 knots
• Hull Design: Cold-molded mahogany deep-V hull
• Seating Layout: Spacious salon with galley, helm station forward, aft deck with seating, plus two or three staterooms below

The classic lines of the Vicem 52 are unmistakable. With its sweeping sheerline, large windows, and varnished wood accents, the yacht delivers timeless elegance. Inside, the craftsmanship shines through polished joinery, teak-and-holly flooring, and a thoughtful layout that balances openness with privacy. Owners can customize interior finishes, allowing each yacht to feel unique.

Performance & Handling

Despite its traditional styling, the Vicem 52 Classic is thoroughly modern when it comes to performance. Powered by twin Volvo IPS or shaft-driven diesels, it achieves a top speed in the high 20-knot range and cruises comfortably in the low-to-mid 20s. Its hull, built using Vicem’s cold-molded mahogany process, offers exceptional strength while keeping weight low. This results in a ride that is both stable and efficient, even in rougher seas.

Handling is smooth and predictable, with IPS joystick control making docking and maneuvering straightforward. The hull design absorbs chop effectively, reducing vibration and creating a quieter ride compared to fiberglass alternatives. Long-range efficiency is another hallmark, allowing owners to explore extended destinations without constant refueling stops.

Safety & Reliability

Safety is a core part of Vicem’s design philosophy. The high bulwarks and wide walkways provide secure footing when moving around the deck, while the robust construction gives confidence in offshore conditions. The helm station is designed with excellent sightlines, and the electronics suite can be customized to ensure navigational safety.

Reliability is enhanced by the choice of proven Volvo or Cummins diesels, both well-regarded for their durability and serviceability. Routine maintenance is simplified by excellent engine room access, and the cold-molded hull is resistant to common fiberglass issues such as osmotic blistering.

Advantages and Possible Limitations

The biggest advantages of the Vicem 52 Classic are its craftsmanship, customization, and timeless appeal. Owners gain a yacht that feels unique, with superior sound insulation, excellent seaworthiness, and a finish that rivals fine furniture.

The limitations come primarily in price and maintenance expectations. This is a premium yacht, and while it holds value well, the initial cost is significant. Maintenance of brightwork and wood finishes requires ongoing care, which may not suit owners who prefer lower-maintenance fiberglass yachts. However, for those who value artistry, these are not drawbacks but part of the ownership experience.

Features & Lifestyle Benefits

Some key features that define the Vicem 52 Classic include:

• Spacious salon with panoramic views and handcrafted joinery
• Two or three stateroom layout options for flexible accommodations
• Fully equipped galley for extended cruising
• Wide, secure side decks and aft deck seating for entertaining
• Advanced navigational electronics and joystick docking with IPS packages

The lifestyle benefits are equally clear. Owners enjoy the ability to entertain in a warm, elegant interior, spend weekends cruising in comfort, or embark on longer adventures. The yacht provides both a sense of tradition and the assurance of modern performance.

Ownership Perspective

From an ownership perspective, the Vicem 52 Classic is not just about function—it’s about pride. Resale values remain strong because of the brand’s reputation for craftsmanship and limited production numbers. Owning one sets you apart from the crowd of fiberglass yachts.

Compared to competitors, Vicem yachts often hold their charm longer, as their styling is timeless rather than trend-driven. The upkeep of wood finishes can be more involved, but many owners see this as part of the joy of having something handcrafted. In terms of brand community, Vicem owners are part of a smaller, more exclusive circle, which often enhances the sense of value and belonging.

Final Thoughts

The Vicem 52 Classic is a yacht that appeals to both the heart and the head. It delivers on performance, range, and seaworthiness, while also offering handcrafted elegance that few others can match. For boaters who want a vessel that stands out for its design and craftsmanship, while still providing modern handling and safety, this yacht is a standout choice.

It’s not the cheapest option in its category, nor the lowest-maintenance, but it offers something rarer: the feeling of owning a true classic, built with care and artistry. For many, that’s worth every penny.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Vicem 52 Classic use real wood construction?
Yes. It is built using Vicem’s cold-molded mahogany technique, which is lighter, stronger, and quieter than traditional fiberglass.

How many staterooms does the 52 Classic have?
It comes standard with two staterooms but can be built with three, depending on owner preference.

What is the cruising range of the Vicem 52 Classic?
With approximately 660 gallons of fuel and efficient diesels, the yacht has an excellent cruising range suitable for long coastal runs and island-hopping.

Is it difficult to maintain the wood finishes?
Brightwork does require more upkeep than fiberglass, but many owners see this as part of the charm and pride of ownership. Proper maintenance ensures the yacht looks stunning for decades.

How does the resale value compare to similar yachts?
Resale value is typically strong, thanks to the exclusivity of Vicem yachts and their reputation for timeless craftsmanship.

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