Cabo Rico Yachts

Cabo Rico Yachts is a reputable manufacturer of semi-custom fiberglass sailboats, distinguished by their craftsmanship and attention to detail. Established in Costa Rica, the company has a rich history of creating high-quality yachts designed by acclaimed naval architects W.I.B. Crealock and Chuck Paine. Ranging from 34 to 56 feet, Cabo Rico Yachts offers a variety of models suited to the needs and preferences of sailing enthusiasts around the world.

Known for their exceptional manufacturing standards, Cabo Rico Yachts utilizes the skills of Costa Rican craftsmen to produce vessels that seamlessly blend functionality, comfort, and aesthetics. The company's dedication to quality and performance has earned it a loyal following among sailors, who appreciate its commitment to delivering top-notch sailing experiences backed by a supportive global community.

Key Takeaways

• Cabo Rico Yachts' reputation is founded on its semi-custom fiberglass sailboats, which are highly valued for their craftsmanship and design.
• The company partners with renowned naval architects, ensuring top performance and handling in their range of models.
• Cabo Rico Yachts provides a global reach and supportive community, attracting a loyal following of sailing enthusiasts.

History and Heritage of Cabo Rico Yachts

Founding and Development

Cabo Rico Yachts was founded in the 1960s when John Schofield started building power boats in the corner of the British Leyland assembly plant in Costa Rica. During the early 1970s, the company shifted its focus towards sailboats, releasing their first sailboat, a 36-foot ketch designed by W.I.B. Crealock, called the Tiburon 36 ¹. Over the years, Cabo Rico Yachts has become known for producing well-crafted luxury cruising yachts.

Influential Designers: W.I.B. Crealock and Chuck Paine

W.I.B. Crealock was a prominent designer for Cabo Rico Yachts. He designed their first sailboat, the Tiburon 36¹, and continued to work with the company on various projects. Additionally, in the 1980s, American naval architect Chuck Paine joined Cabo Rico Yachts as a designer, further enhancing the company's reputation in the sailing community.

Acquisition by John Schofield

In the 1960s, John Schofield, a British automotive plant manager in San Jose, Costa Rica, acquired Cabo Rico Yachts and started building boats in the corner of the British Leyland assembly plant. He would later introduce the Tiburon 36 ketch in 1971, designed by Californian Bill Crealock.² Over time, John Schofield expanded Cabo Rico Yachts' line of products, which now includes cruising yachts, cruiser/racers, motorsailers, and power yachts under the ownership of Canadians Fraser and Edi Smith³.

Manufacturing Excellence

Cabo Rico Yacht Construction Techniques

Cabo Rico Yachts is known for their dedication and attention to detail in the manufacturing process. Their construction techniques involve a combination of skilled craftsmanship and modern technology, ensuring the highest possible quality for their ocean-going vessels ¹.

One of the key construction techniques used by Cabo Rico is the incorporation of a full-length keel, which provides increased stability and safety for their yachts. Additionally, the hull-to-deck joint is securely bonded using both mechanical fasteners and high-quality adhesives, further increasing the overall strength and durability of the yacht.

Materials Used in Yacht Building

Cabo Rico uses a variety of high-quality materials in the manufacturing process. The hull and deck are constructed primarily of hand-laid fiberglass, which is known for its strength, longevity, and resistance to the elements². The internal structure of the yacht is further reinforced with a grid system, providing additional support for the hull and deck.

High-quality marine-grade stainless steel fittings are used throughout the yacht, ensuring reliable and low-maintenance performance over time. The use of these premium materials helps to create a yacht that is not only beautiful but also capable of withstanding the rigors of extended ocean voyages.

Vinylester Resin and Ballast Integration

Cabo Rico Yachts utilizes vinylester resin in their construction process, which is known for its strong chemical bond and resistance to water absorption³. This advanced resin technology provides enhanced protection against osmotic blistering, ensuring that the hull maintains its integrity and remains watertight over time.

The ballast of a Cabo Rico yacht is fully integrated into the keel, providing a low center of gravity and improved stability for the vessel. This integrated ballast system contributes to the yacht's exceptional stability and seakeeping capabilities, ensuring a safe and comfortable cruising experience for passengers.

Design and Specifications

Cabo Rico 38 Features

The Cabo Rico 38 is a well-known model among the Cabo Rico Yachts line. With a length overall (LOA) of 41 feet and a beam of 11.8 feet, this vessel offers ample space for comfortable living and cruising. Designed by W.I.B. Crealock, the Cabo Rico 38 has a displacement of 21,600 lbs and is known for its seakindly performance.

One of the key features of the Cabo Rico 38 is its cutter rig sail plan. This design consists of two headsails, allowing for better sail balance and versatility in various wind conditions. The main sail area is 298 sqft, while the 120% Genoa offers 519 sqft and the staysail covers 152 sqft of sail area.

Cutter Rig and Sail Plan

A cutter rig, like the one used in the Cabo Rico 38, provides several advantages over other types of sail plans. With two headsails, it offers more options to adjust the sail area for different wind conditions. The cutter rig is known for its ability to efficiently sail upwind and downwind, improving the yacht's overall performance.

The Cabo Rico 38's sail plan is designed with a focus on ease of handling, requiring minimal crew effort. The use of roller furling systems on the headsails and a fully-battened mainsail with lazy jacks ensure smooth and efficient sail management during your sailing adventures.

Hull Design and Keel Types

Cabo Rico Yachts are known for their sturdy and durable hull designs. The Cabo Rico 38 features a fiberglass hull with a full keel, providing excellent tracking and stability in a variety of sea conditions. The full keel design offers better directional stability, making the yacht easier to handle and more comfortable for its occupants.

In conclusion, the Cabo Rico 38 highlights many of the best aspects of Cabo Rico Yachts in its design and specifications, showcasing a cutter rig sail plan, a well-built hull, and a full keel for optimal performance at sea.

Performance and Handling

Speed and Efficiency

Cabo Rico Yachts are known for their beautiful design and craftsmanship. One of the key aspects of their performance is their speed and efficiency. These yachts, with their ample sailing rig, can be driven nicely when there is enough wind. The cut-away forefoot reduces wetted surface and improves handling, a trait found in all Cabo Rico models¹. While they may not be the fastest yachts on the water, they strike a good balance between performance and stability.

Balance and Autopilot Integration

Cabo Rico Yachts have a reputation for their excellent balance, making them easy to handle under various conditions. They track well due to the cut-away full keel, which contributes to their stability². Integrating an autopilot system into a Cabo Rico yacht can provide even better handling and responsiveness. As these boats have a balanced helm, this integration tends to be smooth and effective.

Comfort and Seaworthiness

In terms of comfort and seaworthiness, Cabo Rico Yachts are exceptional. Their full keel design, which provides excellent tracking, also contributes to the comfort of the ride³. The solid fiberglass construction offers a robust and stable platform that instills confidence in rough seas. The overall displacement⁴ of these yachts ensures a more relaxed and comfortable sailing experience, with less rolling and pitching.

In summary, Cabo Rico Yachts excel in performance and handling by offering a blend of speed, efficiency, balance, and comfort. With their solid construction and thoughtful design features, these yachts are both enjoyable to sail and capable of handling a variety of conditions.

Models and Variants

Popular Models: Cabo Rico 34 and Tiburon 36

Cabo Rico Yachts is known for its high-quality and well-regarded sailboats. Among them, the Cabo Rico 34 and Tiburon 36 have gained significant popularity among sailing enthusiasts. The Cabo Rico 34, designed by W.I.B. Crealock, measures 37 feet in overall length, and was first built in 1988. On the other hand, the Tiburon 36, with an overall length of 38.58 feet, is another popular model from the company. Both yachts have earned a reputation for their craftsmanship, performance, and seaworthiness.

Custom Yacht Options

Cabo Rico Custom Yachts offers clients the opportunity to create their dream sailboat by providing various customization options. Buyers can work closely with the Cabo Rico team to create tailored layouts, design choices, and additional features to cater to their specific requirements. This level of customization and attention to detail ensures that each Cabo Rico yacht is a truly unique and personalized vessel.

The Ultimate Bluewater Boat: Cambria

Cabo Rico has also gained attention for its Cambria model, often regarded as the ultimate bluewater boat. Although acquiring detailed information about this model can be challenging, it is evident that the Cambria is a top-of-the-line sailboat sought by experienced sailors. With its superb craftsmanship and design, excellent performance, and the customizability options offered by Cabo Rico, the Cambria has become a highly sought-after yacht for those looking for the perfect bluewater sailing experience.

Interior and Amenities

Cabin Layout and Galley Design

Cabo Rico Yachts are known for their beautiful craftsmanship and attention to detail. The interior layout of Cabo Rico boats typically offers a great deal of flexibility, allowing owners to customize their yacht to suit their needs. The use of high-quality teak joinery work, usually sourced from the company's own plantation, gives these interiors a luxurious and timeless feel.

In the galley, Cabo Rico Yachts offer ample space for cooking and food preparation. Most models will feature a well-equipped galley with stainless steel appliances, a gimbaled stove, and ample storage for provisions. This thoughtful design ensures that those on board have access to a functional and efficient food preparation area while out at sea.

Head and Dorade Vents

The head (or bathroom) on a Cabo Rico yacht is designed with comfort and practicality in mind. High-quality marine fixtures, combined with ample storage for toiletries and other necessities, make the head an efficient and well-ventilated space. Cabo Rico Yachts ensures that their yachts have well-designed and functional heads that are both easy to maintain and comfortable to use.

One of the features that adds to the comfort and functionality of a Cabo Rico yacht is the use of dorade vents. These practical and efficient vents help to keep air flowing through the cabins and living spaces, maintaining a comfortable temperature and reducing condensation. By providing effective and discreet ventilation, the dorade vents contribute to the overall enjoyment and livability of the yacht.

The interior and amenities of Cabo Rico Yachts truly set them apart from other vessels. The attention to detail, high-quality materials, and well thought-out designs ensure that those aboard have a comfortable and enjoyable experience, whether at sea or at anchor.

Electronics and Navigation

Cabo Rico Yachts are equipped with state-of-the-art electronics and navigation systems, ensuring a safe and comfortable cruising experience for their users. In this section, we will discuss two main features: Advanced GPS systems and Sailboat Autopilot Features.

Advanced GPS Systems

Modern Cabo Rico Yachts come with advanced GPS systems that have multiple significant features. Some of these features include:

• High-resolution mapping: The GPS systems provide crystal-clear, high-resolution maps that allow for accurate navigation and tracking of the yacht's position.

• User-friendly interface: The GPS systems are designed to be easy to use, with intuitive menus and controls that make it simple for even novice sailors to utilize effectively.

• Integration with other electronics: The GPS systems can be integrated seamlessly with other onboard electronics, such as radar, AIS, and chart plotters, providing a comprehensive view of the yacht's surroundings and making it easier to avoid potential hazards.

• Reliability and durability: The GPS systems installed in Cabo Rico Yachts are built to withstand the harsh marine environment and remain functional even in challenging conditions.

Sailboat Autopilot Features

Autopilot systems are essential for cruisers who want a reliable and efficient means of maintaining a steady course. Cabo Rico Yachts come equipped with top-of-the-line autopilots, offering features such as:

• Wind-based steering: This allows the yacht to maintain a set angle to the wind, ensuring optimal sail trim and efficiency. This feature is particularly useful when sailing long distances or making long passages offshore.

• Adaptive steering: The autopilot's adaptive steering feature learns the yacht's handling characteristics and automatically adjusts its response to different conditions, such as variations in wind speed or sea state.

• Integration with GPS: The autopilot system can be integrated with the yacht's GPS, allowing for waypoint navigation and automatic course corrections.

• Remote control: Some Cabo Rico Yachts' autopilot systems offer remote control functionality, enabling crew members to make adjustments to the yacht's course from the comfort of their own cabin or while performing other duties on deck.

Cabo Rico Yachts' dedication to utilizing the latest in electronics and navigation technology ensures their vessels' owners can confidently embark on their sailing adventures knowing they have the best tools at their disposal.

Global Reach and Community

Dealership Locations

Cabo Rico Yachts is a yacht builder known for its quality craftsmanship and sturdy sailing boats. The company, originally started in Costa Rica, has expanded its reach to various international dealership locations. In the United States, dealers can be found in key sailing cities such as Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Newport, Rhode Island. Other dealership locations include Miami, Florida, and Seattle, Washington.

These dealership locations offer a variety of Cabo Rico models, including the Cabo Rico 38, 34, Northeast 400, 38 Cutter, and 42. The wide range of models caters to diverse sailing needs, ensuring that enthusiasts can find the perfect yacht for their adventures.

Cabo Rico Presence in Cruising Destinations

The reliable and elegant design of Cabo Rico Yachts has earned them a strong presence in popular cruising destinations. The Caribbean is one such area where Cabo Rico yachts can often be spotted. Sailors in this region can enjoy crystal-clear waters, warm temperatures, and consistent trade winds - making it an ideal destination for Cabo Rico owners.

Here is a brief list of some popular Cabo Rico cruising destinations:

• Florida: With its vast coastline and numerous marinas, Florida is a hot spot for Cabo Rico owners. Both Fort Lauderdale and Miami offer excellent amenities and sailing conditions.

• Rhode Island: Newport, known as the sailing capital of the world, is home to many Cabo Rico owners. The location offers a mix of coastal cruising and offshore sailing opportunities.

• Caribbean: The alluring turquoise waters and gentle trade winds make the Caribbean an attractive destination for Cabo Rico Yacht owners seeking the ultimate sailing experience.

Cabo Rico Yachts’ commitment to quality and performance has not only led to an international presence in dealership locations but has also endeared the brand to sailors worldwide. The brand's impact on cruising destinations across the globe speaks to its influence in the sailing community and solidifies its place as a top choice for yacht enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin and history of Cabo Rico Yachts?

Cabo Rico Yachts was founded in the late 1960s by three men who shared a love for sailing and a dedication to quality craftsmanship. The company started building its signature yachts in Costa Rica, attracting sailors with their unique blend of traditional design and modern technology.

Are Cabo Rico boats currently being manufactured?

As of the information available, Cabo Rico Yachts' production status remains uncertain. For the latest updates and inquiries, it is advised to contact the company directly or consult related forums and communities.

In which country are Cabo Rico Yachts constructed?

Cabo Rico Yachts were originally built in Costa Rica, where the founders established a dedicated production facility. The company utilized local resources and skilled workers to craft their high-quality yachts, ensuring a unique, robust construction.

What are the signature design features of a Cabo Rico yacht?

Cabo Rico Yachts are known for their distinctive designs, blending classic features with modern technology. Some of their most notable design elements include a Cabo Rico 38, which has a D/L ratio of 375 and an SA/D ratio of 16.3, making them moderately heavy and well-suited for seakindly ocean cruising.

How has Cabo Rico's yacht craftsmanship evolved over the years?

Over the years, Cabo Rico has continuously refined its production techniques and improved the materials used in construction. Their distinctive blend of classic design and advanced technology has attracted sailors worldwide, proving their yachts' durability and longevity. This time-tested craftsmanship ensures a high resale value, demonstrated by the price range of used Cabo Rico yachts made between 1980-1990, which stands between $70,000 to $150,000.

What range of models does Cabo Rico offer to sailors?

Cabo Rico has produced a variety of yacht models over the years, tailored to the different needs and preferences of sailors. Some of the most popular models include the Cabo Rico 34, 38, 42, and the flagship Cabo Rico 56. Each model offers unique features and capacities, catering to a wide range of cruising experiences.