The Columbia 5.5 Meter was introduced in 1963 as a one-design class racing yacht and built to the 5.5 Meter international measurement rule.

The design was taken from Carina, a 5.5 meter designed and built by Sigurd Herburn of Oslo, Norway. Carina won the 1958 Scandinavian Games Gold Cup and was a pure racer that was as beautiful as she was quick. Columbia Yachts purchased Carina, modified and refined the design, and produced the Columbia 5.5 meter. Less than 50 of these flush deck racers were built.

The 5.5 meter was later modified by Columbia and received a new model designation - "Saber." The Saber was a cruising version of the 5.5, with a raised deck, bunks for four and other amenities. Between 300 and 400 Sabers were built between 1963 and 1969.

• Length Overall 32' 5"
• Length Waterline 25' 0"
• Draft 4' 4"
• Beam 6' 3"
• Displacement 4,500 lbs.
• Ballast (lead) 2,800 lbs.
• Sail Area 312 sq. ft.