1989 Baltic 55 Insurance Survey
Nobody who grew up sailing in the 70's and 80's can look at a Baltic 55 without saying, "Wow, that boat is drop-dead gorgeous . . ."
The IOR rule produced some distorted designs, but this is not one of them. The Baltic 55 by Doug Peterson was designed at the end of the IOR era and the beginning of the IMS era. Baltics are very close to Swans in look and style, but Peterson may have one-upped the S&S or Holland-designed Swans with this one. He nailed the classic lines - from the low cabin house, to the bold reverse transom. A classic all-wood interior makes the interior of the boat as nice as the exterior.
One word of warning for those in love: A 1980's Baltic or Swan is not a low-maintenance boat. They are very well thought-out, but are loaded with systems to maintain and upgrade - not to mention those beautiful teak decks . . . You will need to have an ongoing relationship with a Swan-approved yard such as Jamestown Boat Yard - one of the best in the business. These are fantastic boats, but you have to be willing and able to maintain them.
