Boat test for the 2006 CW Hood 50 with boat pictures, boat specifications, and boat test results. Includes pricing, videos, engine test reviews, and ratings for the 2006 CW Hood 50.

Considering this level of commitment to cruising, you can see why living space is so important. Thanks to V-drives and the fact that all tankage is low in the boat (the tanks are integral with the gelcoated grid system that reinforces the hull), Hood was able to create one-level living in a galley-down arrangement with enough space to accommodate GE household appliances and a U-shape dinette. Noyes also chose GE for the near-industrial-strength washer and dryer, which are tucked behind a door in the master stateroom. By the way, maximum headroom here is more than nine feet. I haven't seen a 50-footer with that kind of space. The bridge deck's windows, 11 hatches, and numerous portholes provide an immense amount of natural light, too, which combine with the headroom to create an open, expansive feel.

The amidships master spans the boat's roomy 17'1" beam and sports an en suite head and walk-in closet. One of the coolest advantages gained from this one-level design is the use of sliding pocket doors that run on centerline between two sets of bunks to port and starboard, just forward of the galley/ dinette. Simply slide the door open on the port-side stateroom (the starboard bunks are open to the companionway), and the four bunks become one large playroom for the kids. A second head is located fully forward. An optional arrangement allows for a forepeak VIP stateroom.

But while I applaud Hood and his team for such innovative space planning and interior styling, sometimes being innovative also involves growing pains. One thing we discovered during our test was that a new electric fuel-switch system that is supposed to let the helmsman swap tanks on the fly had been wired improperly, resulting in a few stalls while attempting to change from the wing fuel tanks to the main. The problem was found and rectified, and we were back underway quickly. Another issue was the fact the test boat's MANs turned 93 rpm more than their rated speed, indicating the need for a bit more pitch. Still, to Hood's and Zurn's credit, their collaboration produced a boat that burns only about 52 gph at a 2000-rpm and 30-mph cruise, yielding 363 miles of nonstop motoring. At WOT and 2293 rpm, the 50 burned 70 gph and made 34 mph, offering a 306-mile range. I'd expect even better numbers once the props are adjusted.

This is one boat that truly needs to be experienced. When you follow the steps winding down to the galley/dinette, it's easy to think you're on a boat ten to 15 feet larger. And while the sea conditions weren't challenging on test day, her comfort underway was outstanding. She's also extremely quiet: How about just 76 dB-A at WOT? (Sixty-five dB-A is the level of normal conversation.)

If this vessel sounds like she might fill the bill for you, you should also know that she can be customized to suit your needs. All you have to do is send Chris Hood your napkins. He'll know what to do with them.

C.W. Hood Yachts
(781) 631-0192

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