british sailboats

UK Sailboat Brands: The Top 21 Sailing Yachts and Brands of Britain

Published by sail on february 8, 2023 february 8, 2023.

The UK has a long history of excellence in shipbuilding and sailing, producing some of the most cutting-edge and stunning sailing ships in the world. There are several UK Sailboat Brands, each with a distinct specialty and set of talents. You can locate a firm in the UK that can match your needs whether you’re searching for a traditional wooden yacht, a contemporary GRP sailboat, or a custom-built power catamaran. The UK is a fantastic destination to find your next boat because of its rich nautical history, reputation for excellence, and commitment to innovation.

In this post, we’ll examine the top UK Sailboat Brands, each of which has distinctive characteristics and features.

One of Oyster Yachts’ flagship models, this magnificent yacht provides a roomy and opulent sailing experience. For discriminating sailors who appreciate comfort, style, and performance, the Oyster 885 is the ideal option thanks to its elegant lines, cutting-edge technology, and contemporary design.

A gorgeous sailing boa t from Spirit Yachts, the Spirit 100 offers a high-performance sailing experience with a dash of grace and beauty. This 100-foot yacht is perfect for sailing, racing, or just lounging on the water thanks to its lovely carbon-fiber hull and roomy deck.

Gunfleet 74

For individuals who desire the utmost in performance and luxury, Gunfleet Marine has created the exquisite Gunfleet 74 sailing yacht. The Gunfleet 74 is a top pick for sailors who desire the best of both worlds because of her svelte carbon-fiber hull, cutting-edge technology, and roomy living quarters.

A traditional sailing yacht by Rustler Yachts, the 44-foot Rustler provides a safe, pleasant, and traditional sailing experience. This 44-foot yacht has a stunning wooden hull, traditional lines, and cutting-edge technology, making it a great option for individuals who value sailing’s timeless beauty.

Discovery 67

A beautiful sailing yacht from Discovery Yachts, the Discovery 67 provides a roomy and comfortable sailing experience with a dash of innovation and ingenuity. This 67-foot sailing boat is the ideal option for individuals looking for a sailing yacht that stands out from the crowd thanks to its distinctive and inventive design, state-of-the-art technology, and roomy interior.

Arbor Yachts

The Arbor 26 is the company’s signature product, and Arbor Boats is a maker of wooden yachts. Another boat manufacturer in the UK is Blaxton Boats, which offers dayboats and yachts with sail and engine options. Modern GRP yachts between 35 and 48 feet in length are the focus of Bowman Yachts. The Parker 235 GRP daysailer, available from BP Sailboats, is ideal for individuals seeking a high-performance boat for day outings.

Bristol Classic Boat

Your boat will be distinctive and long-lasting thanks to the custom wooden boats and restoration services offered by Bristol Classic Boat Co. The 20-31 foot modern GRP yachts produced by British Hunter are well renowned for fusing traditional design with cutting-edge technology. Sailing and power catamarans are the company’s specialties, and they offer adaptable and sturdy boats for a variety of boating activities. Butler & Co. is a wooden boat builder that upholds the enduring beauty of wooden boats by providing traditional boatbuilding services.

If you want to have more details about UK sailboat brands then here you can find a comprehensive range of sailboat data for over 10000+ boats.

Cape Cutter

The CC19 traditional daysailer, a small and capable sailboat ideal for day voyages, is the focus of Cape Cutter, a UK Sailboat Brands boat manufacturer headquartered in the UK. Unique wooden yachts are created by Cockwells to the greatest standards and according to the requirements of their owners. A selection of GRP pilot-cutters and traditional-style GRP yachts, ranging in length from 17 to 43 feet, are available from Cornish Crabbers/Mystery. Wooden boats of the highest caliber that are both attractive and useful are made by David Moss.

Demon Yachts

Smaller yachts and keelboats are Demon Yachts’ specialty, and they are built to order to meet the individual requirements of their clients. Drascombe constructs traditional GRP yawls, offering vessels that fuse traditional design with contemporary engineering. Custom yacht builders Farrow & Chambers produce high-quality, long-lasting boats out of wood and epoxy. A variety of dinghies, dayboats, and kayaks are available from Fyne Boat Kits, making them ideal for individuals wishing to construct their own boats.

Gaffers & Luggers

The classic wooden working boats offered by Gaffers & Luggers range in length from 23 to 28 feet. The 43-foot modern GRP cruiser from Gunfleet Marine is ideal for individuals looking for a high-performance boat for longer voyages. With a focus on traditional GRP dayboats, Honnor Marine combines traditional design with cutting-edge engineering. Traditional wooden boat builder Ian B. Richardson upholds the enduring beauty of wooden boats.

British Hunter

The UK-based company British Hunter produces contemporary GRP yachts. Their boats, which range in length from 20 to 31 feet, are built for both comfort and efficiency. The newest materials and technology are used in the construction of British Hunter yachts to provide you with a comfortable and safe sailing experience. They are the ideal choice for individuals who want a boat that is simple to manage and that gives an exceptional sailing performance.

BroadBlue is also one of the UK Sailboat Brands. They offer catamarans for sailing and propulsion are their areas of expertise. In order to give you a safe and enjoyable sailing experience, their boats are made with the most up-to-date materials and technology and are designed to deliver exceptional performance and handling. Broadblue provides the ideal boat for your needs, whether you’re searching for a powerful and roomy power catamaran or a quick and maneuverable sailing catamaran.

Butler & Co

This specialized in making old-fashioned wooden boats. Their boats are created to the greatest levels of quality and craftsmanship, and they provide a variety of services, including new builds, restorations, and repairs. Butler & Co. can assist you in finding the ideal boat for your requirements, whether you’re looking for a historic boat that has been refurbished or a classic sailing yacht.

Blaxton Boats

A company called Blaxton Boats sells a variety of sail- and power-powered dayboats and yachts. You may be sure to discover a boat that meets your requirements and aesthetic preferences because they come in a range of sizes and types. In order to give you a safe and enjoyable sailing experience, their boats are made with the most up-to-date materials and technology and are designed to deliver exceptional performance and handling.

Bowman Yachts

Modern GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) boats are the focus of the UK-based company Bowman Yachts. Their boats, which range in length from 35 to 48 feet, are built for both comfort and efficiency. For individuals looking for a boat that combines historic style with contemporary technology and materials, Bowman Yachts are ideal, and their boats are constructed to the highest standards.

BP Sailboats

GRP daysailer boats are the company’s area of expertise. The Parker 235, a sleek and fashionable yacht ideal for day outings and weekend sailing excursions, is their most popular model. The Parker 235 is developed with the most up-to-date materials and technology to give you a pleasant and joyful sailing experience. It is designed to deliver exceptional performance and handling.

Stirling & Son

A UK-based business called Stirling & Son specializes in creating unique wooden ships. The company is dedicated to providing custom boats that satisfy each client’s particular demands and requirements, with a concentration on traditional designs and construction methods. They assist clients to realize their ideas by providing a full design and build service. One of the top wooden boat builders in the UK, Stirling & Son is renowned for its attention to detail and high-caliber craftsmanship.

Swallow Boats

This business specializes in the creation of Bay Cruisers. These boats include contemporary amenities and technologies while maintaining a timeless and traditional design. They are ideal for exploring the shoreline, inland waterways, or estuaries because they are built to be both functional and fashionable. Swallow Boats offers a variety of models, each with a distinctive style and set of characteristics, and can also build custom boats to satisfy certain needs.

Swallowtail Boatyard

There is yet another business that specialised in classic Norfolk Broads boats. They provide a variety of services, such as boat construction, maintenance, and rental. Because Swallowtail Boatyard is dedicated to upholding the history and customs of the Norfolk Broads, their boats are made in a manner that reflects this. Their boats are renowned for their fine craftsmanship and attention to detail, and they employ traditional methods and materials.

T. Nielsen & Company

This business specializes in the construction and repair of tall ships. They provide the whole spectrum of services, from the initial concept to the final building and launch. With years of expertise in building and renovating tall ships, T. Nielsen & Company’s team of talented craftsmen and engineers guarantees that every job is executed to the highest standards. They are dedicated to conserving the UK’s maritime legacy and have worked on a variety of projects, from major commercial vessels to tiny traditional sailing ships.

Voyaging Yachts

Custom sailing yacht design and construction are the focus of the UK-based business Voyaging Yachts. They provide a wide variety of services, including design, construction, and refitting, and their team of professionals can assist clients in realizing their ideas. With years of experience producing high-quality sailing yachts, Voyaging Yachts is dedicated to providing clients with custom boats that are tailored to their individual requirements. They are renowned for their attention to detail, superior craftsmanship, and creative designs, and sailors from all over the world like their yachts.

In conclusion, these UK Sailboat Brands are just a fraction of the amazing sailing ships built by Britain’s skilled shipbuilders. You’re sure to discover the ideal yacht among these high-caliber ships, whether you’re searching for performance, luxury, or just a gorgeous sailing experience. Why then wait? Start your next sailing journey right away to experience the finest Britain has to offer.

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10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

‍ There's no denying that sailors are certainly a passionate bunch. We’re so passionate about our boats that we always try going for the best sailboats. To make it a lot easier for you, here are the best sailboat brands.

Owning a sailboat is an indulgence that many of us only dream about but very few ever have the privilege of sailing the seas in what they can actually call their own.

While there's nothing wrong with renting a sailboat, the honor of owning one is certain what many sailors dream of.

With a perfectly crafted sailboat as company, gliding through the water, waves, and wind brings some sort of unmatched comfort and peace.

Add this to the fact that sailing takes you far away from the daily hustles and bustles that we've become accustomed to in our daily lives and you'll see why the life of sailing is very appealing to the masses.

But without a proper sailboat, all this fun and the good life of sailing are thrown out of the window.

Contrary to the widespread opinion, owning a sailboat isn't beyond anyone's reach. It's something that we can all achieve. But before getting into that, it's important to know some of the best sailboat brands.

The best sailboat brands will make your life as a sailor a lot easier and more fun. The best sailboat brands have, for decades if not centuries, mastered the art of woodworking. They've dedicated their skills and immense amount of their time to designing and manufacturing nothing but the best quality of sailboats in the industry.

So if you've been looking for the best sailboat brands from all over the world, you've come to the right place. We'll discuss the best of the best, something that will give you a perfect getaway from your normal life.

Table of contents

‍ Must-Have Features for Your Sailboat

Before highlighting the best sailboat brands, it would be appropriate to jog your mind a little with some of the features that must be available in your sailboat.

Choosing a sailboat can sometimes be a matter of compromises. In other words, it's sometimes sensible to accept that a sailboat cannot have all the features that you desire.

As such, it's all about going with a sailboat that has the features that matter to you most.

For this reason, let's look at the most basic features that can make the difference in both safety and comfort while improving your sailing experience.

A Safe and Comfortable Sailing Cockpit

You'll most definitely be spending a huge amount of time in the cockpit. Whether you're keeping watch, trimming sails , helming, or just enjoying the scenery, there's no better place to do all these than from the cockpit. That being said, a good cockpit should have the following.

• Have a good depth for safety reasons and adequate drainage
• Should give you a quick and easy access to jammers, cleats, and other important parts of the winch system
• Should have a seat or seats that are about 35 cm high, 50 to 55 cm wide to provide ideal support
• The seats should be adjustable to offer maximum comfort and allow you to change your position

GPS Chartplotter

Use a GPS Chartplotter once and your sailing will never be the same without it. It not only allows you to map a course but is also a great way of ensuring that your sailboat exactly follows that course. It also gives you constant updates on ocean conditions, weather conditions , and potential hazards such as deadly currents and sandbars.

A GPS Chartplotter is also an important safety device that can help you in some very critical situations while out there on the water.

For instance, it has a man-overboard button that is essentially meant to allow you to receive coordinates of the exact location should someone fall off your boat.

Electric Winch System

This is an amazing addition to any sailboat. It allows you to sheet a jib even in high and strong winds with a simple press of a button. It also gives you the chance of trimming a mainsail easily while still carry out other essential tasks in the sailboat.

An electric winch system can be of great importance, especially if you're short on crew. This is because it can free up some crew members to carry other important tasks. In other words, it can make duties that would otherwise require more crew members a lot easier.

More importantly, an electric winch system can maintain safety even in the roughest of conditions, thereby preventing you and your crew from getting injured. In essence, an electric winch system will make your sailing a lot safer, less stressful, and more enjoyable.

Reverse Osmosis Watermaker

This is a very valuable accessory, especially if you're going on long sea voyages. You can spend days on end without drinking clean and safe water.

As the name suggests, you can use this accessory to turn seawater into purified drinking water. It uses the reverse osmosis method that's essential not only in removing bacteria and parasites from the water but also in turning the water into purified and safe drinking water.

Even though this device is pricey, it's a great way to mitigate the over-reliance on huge water tanks. All you have to do is to ensure that it's properly maintained and you'll have an endless streak of safe drinking water no matter where you are.

Wide and Clutter-free Deck

While the deck is often an overlooked feature of a sailboat, it can be the difference between a great sailing experience and a stressful one. In essence, the deck of a sailboat should be wide enough and clutter-free.

This is significant as it can enable you to quickly access different parts of your sailboat with hindrance or getting tangled. As you can see, this is particularly important in improving safety and reducing stress.

With that in mind, make sure that the deck is organized in such a way that you can have easy access to sails, masts, and winches.

You should, therefore, avoid sailboats with decks that are designed in such a way that you have to climb on top of the cabin just to access these features. Needless to say, this can be quite unstable and very dangerous especially when conditions are rough.

The Best Sailboat Brands and Why

1. hallberg-rassy.

Hallberg-Rassy is a Swedish yacht maker that's very well-known in the blue water cruising circles for making some of the highest quality and sturdiest sailboats. For many sailors, this is the number one sailboat brand as it offers absolute comfort, utmost safety, and good and easy handling.

This brand is not only synonymous with sturdy construction but you won't worry getting soaking wet while out there on the water. This is because it has a well-protected deck and cockpit, finished with nice woodwork, and has a powerful engine with a big tankage just to ensure that you can go on long voyages.

When designing its sailboats, this brand has made it a norm to add some features that stand out from the rest. For instance, the bowsprit is an integral feature that makes sailing a Hallberg-Rassy quite easy and much enjoyable. This is because it grants easy access to and from the deck. Its electric anchor winches facilitate smooth maneuvering. Even more, its large steering wheels makes it much easier to control the boat even in the roughest of conditions. In essence, this brand has features that provide good control and an extra sense of safety.

Although this brand has evolved over the years, you'll easily recognize it even from a distance. And why is this? A Hallberg-Rassy never goes out of style. This is a unique sailboat brand that has always stayed true to its principles and concept. No matter which part of the world you go, Hallberg-Rassy will remain the undisputed king of blue water cruising.

2. Nautor's Swan

For over 50 years, Nautor's Swan has endlessly raised the sailing levels by designing and manufacturing new sailboat models that not only push the boundaries but also meet that many requirements and demands of sailors across the world. Thanks to its wide range of seaworthy, timeless, elegant, and highly-performing sailboats, the Nautor's Swan remains one of the best if not the best sailboat makers in the world.

Based in Jakobstad, Finland, this brand has severally set the industry standard with its speedy and sleek models such as the Swan 48, Swan 65, Swan 98, Swan 78, and Swan 120. These models have one thing in common: they never compromise on safety. As a brand that puts safety first, it ensures that its models are made of foam-cored glass fiber and reinforced both with carbon-fiber and epoxy. In essence, Nautor's Swan is widely revered for its unmatched seafaring and safety records.

Additionally, Nautor's Swan models are incredibly responsive. You can easily tell this just by the feel of the wheel. This brand has models that will gracefully slice through the biggest of waves with ease. That's not all; the interior of these models that are very comfortable even when the going gets tough. This is, without a doubt, a brand that strives to create self-contained worlds with each model.

3. Beneteau

This is perhaps the most selling sailboat brand in the world. For over a century now, this brand has based its models in a combination of simplicity and performance. This is a brand that will serve you just right across all latitudes and in all circumstances. Whether you prefer the Oceanis Yacht 62 or the Figaro Beneteau 3, this brand will never let you down on all fronts.

This brand revolves around a simple concept of creating a link around the world. From the deck space to its design and light, this brand does everything possible not just to uniformly transform life at sea but also to open doors to new horizons in a very luxurious yet practical way. Its models are designed with clear deck plans, stable hulls, simplified maneuvering and interior materials and equipment that can be easily personalized.

Whether you're looking for a racing sailboat or something that's designed to explore and enjoy the world in the company of friends and family, Beneteau is a true combination of sensations and simplicity. This is a brand that brings to the seas fun, simplicity, smartness, toughness, safety, intuitiveness, as well as dazzling reinvention.

4. Amel Yachts

Based on the ethos of designing and manufacturing comfortable, robust, and easy-to-handle boats, this French brand has, for over five decades, offered sailors and other sailing enthusiasts the perfect opportunity to explore the seas with the utmost quality, comfort, and more importantly, safety.

Using 100% French know-how, this brand has brought to the sailing world some of the best boats such as the Santorini, the Mango, the Super Maramu, and the Maramu. We would be doing this brand total injustice if we said that they're distinctive. Truth be told, there's nothing comparable to an Amel model. Well Amel was and still is, the ultimate standard by which other sailboat models are measured.

From items such as electric winches and furling, to generators, Watermaker , and washing machine down to the simplest of items such as towels. Spare filters, bathrobes, deck brush, and a boat safe, the Amel is in reality with what the real life of a sailor is and should be.

Although some may say that Amel still has room for improvement in terms of specifications and personalization, it cannot be denied that the Amel is a serious brand that designs and manufactures complete boats. With this brand, you'll be guaranteed of a higher degree of reliability, safety, and an edge of fun while out there on the water.

5. Hinckley Yachts

Based in Maine, United States, Hinckley Yachts is a brand that has been building robust, luxury, and safe sailboats for more than 90 years now. In its sailboat class, you'll find several sailboats that have classic shapes, inner strength, dramatic lines, and features that are absolutely essential in dealing with the challenges of the North Atlantic.

This brand has been successful in integrating impeccable craftsmanship with new technologies to ensure that their models always stand out while articulating advanced sailing practices, timeless aesthetic, robust construction, and the utmost safety. Whether you choose the Bermuda 50, the Sou'wester 53 or any model for that matter, you'll never be short of advanced performance based on the best design and technology.

In terms of features, this brand provides sailboat models with modern performance hulls. These hulls are constructed with inner layers of carbon, outer layers of Kevlar, and are aligned with computer-designed load paths. Every feature is designed without compromising comfort.

To this end, this brand offers you a perfect combination of both fun and sail. This brand offers more than just sailing. Instead, it offers a unique sailing experience that's combined with the pure joys of sailing in the blue waters with an ease of ownership and maneuverability.

6. Oyster Yachts

If you've been looking for luxury more than anything else, Oyster Yachts provides you with numerous solutions. This British brand is widely known for manufacturing a wide range of luxury cruising sailing yachts. Its sailboats are among the finest in the world and are immensely capable of taking you to some of the far-flung places in the world without having to worry about high winds and hellish waves.

Whether you choose the iconic Oyster 565 or the immense Oyster 595 you never fall short of experiencing the new world like never before. These are models that will enable you to own your adventure, choose your destination, set your courses, pick your anchorage, and stay safe at all times. If you want to hold the wheel and pull the sail while feeling the tang of salt spray on your face, Oyster Yachts is the way to go.

This is, unquestionably, a brand that's meant for you if you want to explore the seas in comfort, luxury and utmost safety. From craftsmanship, sailboat design, to hull, deck, and keel configurations, everything is designed to allow you to circumnavigate the world in comfort, elegance, and style.

7. Tartan Yachts

Based in Fairport Harbor, Ohio, there's arguably no better to begin your sailing adventures than with a sailboat designed and manufactured by Tartan Yachts. With several award-winning designs and construction, this brand is widely known for providing easy handling, great performance, and an ultimately stable platform.

This brand always strives to deliver a unique and the best possible experience to every sailor. As a brand, Tartan fully understands that every sailor has his/her unique sailing needs. As such every component of their models is designed with engineering levels that guarantee optimum performance, excellent on-deck visibility, and luxurious interior.

From the Tartan 5300, the Tartan 4300, the Tartan 345 to the New 365 and the Fantail, this brand makes it a priority to ensure that its models are among the strongest, lightest, and more importantly, the safest in the sailing industry. In essence, this brand can be ideal if you appreciate performance. It has rewarding sailing features both in narrow water lines and wider passages. Add this to its easy handling and you'll have a top-notch performer in virtually every condition.

8. Catalina Yachts

As one of the most popular boat manufacturers in the world, this American brand is widely revered for building the sturdiest boats that can hold up perfectly well in real-world conditions. These are generally family-oriented boats that are intelligently designed to ensure that your entire family can have fun out there on the water.

Some of the models include the cruiser series such as the Catalina 315, the Catalina 385, the Catalina 425 while the sport series include the Catalina 12.5 Expo, the Catalina 16.5, and the Catalina 14.2 Expo. As the current winner of the "Boat of the Year" Cruising World, you'll rarely go wrong with a Catalina model.

It offers a wide range of sailboat sizes that suits your lifestyle. This brand makes it a priority to ensure that all their models are not only safe but offer the best ownership and sailing experience. If anything, this brand is widely known to have one of the most excellent resale values in the sailing industry.

9. Island Packet Yachts

From the IP 525, the IP 439 to the IP 379, the Island Packet Yachts is a brand that encourages its customers not to keep the world waiting. This brand is meant for sailors who want to explore the world in utmost comfort and safety.

The first thing you'll notice in an IP sailboat is its large aft deck. This is not only perfect for sunbathing but can also serve you well if you want an impromptu dinner with friends and family while out there on the water. The living space is also large enough to carry most of your belongings, which is an added advantage especially if you've been planning to spend longer periods in the seas.

With modern evolution and refinement, as well as proven features, this brand is known to offer sailors maximum comfort, luxury, and safety. You'll have better access to the cockpit, have enough space, and are excellently designed to provide superior seafaring and the best features to enable you to spend extended periods when cruising.

10. Sparkman & Stephens

For more than 90 years, Sparkman & Stephens has been at the forefront of the belief that sailboat excellence goes beyond hull lines and deck plans. Instead, this brand believes in excellent naval architecture, innovation, sophistication, and beauty. This is a brand that has laid the foundation of sailboat as a sport not just in America but all over the world.

These models have graced the world for decades and bring immense pleasure to their owners in terms of innovation, performance, and excellence. Though rooted in tradition, the brand has pushed sophistication, technology, and sailing experience to a whole new level. You'll be a proud owner of the Sparkman & Stephens model.

There you have it; these are the best sailboat brands in the world. Although there are several other sailboat brands to choose from, the-above described brands stand shoulder above others in terms of quality, safety, performances and luxury.

Hopefully, you're at a much better place when it comes to choosing a sailboat that suits your lifestyle, needs, and budget .

Happy sailing!

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Practical Boat Owner

• Digital edition

Best boats for sailing around the UK: sail & power

• Duncan Kent
• September 12, 2023

Duncan Kent chooses the best sail and motor boats under 40ft for circumnavigating the islands of Britain and Ireland

120 of the Vancouver 34 Classics were built. These seaworthy boats are highly sought after due to their solid build and ability to stand up to heavy weather. Credit: Colin Work

Best sail and power boats for sailing around the UK

Right around the UK in a small boat is a long sail, close to 2,000 miles in fact if you include Ireland.

Along the way you’ll likely encounter almost every kind of weather and sea state, so having the right boat is paramount.

Over the past 100 years cruising boat design has changed beyond imagination, with the emphasis for modern yachts placed predominantly on brisk performance and spacious, bright and luxurious interiors.

The primary element nowadays, for both sail and motor yachts, is commonly speed and comfort, whereas 50 years ago it was more about its ability to handle adverse conditions.

Small boats are perfectly capable of sailing around the UK, as Timothy Long proved when he sailed his Impala 28, Alchemy, solo around the UK. Credit:  Peter Jeanneret/Hunter Association

A yacht had to look after its crew regardless of the weather and a keen performance was simply a bonus. Of course, there were plenty of racing yachts back then that were chiefly designed for agility and performance, but few would have been taken by a family for a week’s holiday or sailed across open oceans for pleasure.

Sat firmly in the northern hemisphere, the UK experiences a wide range of weather patterns, which in turn affect the sea state.

There’s also a noticeable difference between its southern and northern coastal waters and sea areas.

I don’t want to lay down rules about which boats can safely sail round Britain and which can’t, as a very large proportion of this will be down to the experience of the skipper and crew.

But the following suggestions might help you choose a suitable boat for the task or at least let you know what modifications you might want to make to your existing boat to make the cruise safer and more enjoyable.

Boat design

To circumnavigate the UK in a reasonable time frame requires a boat that is tough enough and comfortable enough to beat into wind and waves when necessary, without making life totally unbearable on board.

On a sailing yacht, this usually means a relatively full-bodied hull , longish keel , high bows, and manageable rig .

That’s not to say a well-found bilge-keeled yacht couldn’t do the job perfectly well, it just means it might take slightly longer due to the little extra leeway experienced during heavy weather beats.

Folk have made it around in windsurfers, dinghies and even a kayak !

An outboard-powered boat, like this Viko 21, will struggle in heavy seas off headlands, and is not suitable for sailing around the UK. Credit: David Harding

However, I personally wouldn’t want to attempt a circumnavigation in an outboard-powered boat , either motor or sail.

More often than not you’ll be needing to motor or motorsail through confused seas, especially off Cape Wrath and similar foreboding headlands .

So, unless the outboard is mounted in a deep well on the centreline, the prop is likely to keep lifting out of the water just when you don’t need it to.

With all older yachts with inboards, I’d be looking for a newer engine than the original for a trip like this, unless they have been professionally rebuilt and meticulously maintained.

Home comforts

It will be a great deal more pleasant in heavy weather if the boat offers a reasonable level of protection from the elements for the on-deck crew, such as a windscreen, sprayhood or wheelhouse.

Depending on your overall plan, you should expect to be anchoring often when you need to stop, so think ‘off-grid’.

Solar panels will provide enough power to make life comfortable if you need to anchor in a remote spot. Semi-flexible panels can be mounted on deck and have a non-slip surface. Credit: Graham Snook

Solar panels are comparatively cheap these days and a lot quieter than a wind generator so consider adding at least 200W of solar and a new matching pair of deep-cycle house batteries .

This should ensure you have enough power to have a few comforts such as a fridge , as well as run the navigation instruments and lights.

Sailing yachts under 25ft LOA for sailing around the UK

The duration and number of stopovers you plan to include will favour some boats and not others.

Keeping the passages to 8-10 hours each during the summer months, with a few overnighters when the weather is favourable, means you could do the whole trip in a sub-25ft boat, although hull stability and cockpit protection would be high on my list, as well as a reliable inboard diesel.

For a sturdy motorsailer such as the long-keeled, shoal-draught Fisher 25, the trip should be a doddle in most conditions.

The Fisher 25 is the smallest in the range, but has a big boat feel due to its heavy displacement, making it more than capable of sailing around the UK. Credit: David Harding

Lighter, slightly cheaper, but equally seaworthy boats such as the Vivacity 24 or the Hunter Horizon 23/235 should also serve well, although the limited accommodation volume and restricted headroom can sometimes get a little wearing on a long trip, especially when the weather is poor.

I have a good friend who sailed his 1970s Hurley 24 for many thousands of miles, including down to the Mediterranean and around the UK and Ireland.

Apart from the usual breakages and lack of power against fast currents and headwinds, the H24 served him and his wife well.

They remain happily married today, although they now cruise a 37ft swing-keel Southerly out of their southern Brittany home port.

Motorboats under 25ft LOA for sailing around the UK

There are a few sub-25ft semi-displacement motorboats that would safely complete a long passage by port-hopping in fair weather and sea conditions.

The bluff-bowed Hardy Pilot 20 is the smallest I would consider, sporting a powerful 30hp inboard diesel and super-tough hull.

Although she’s pretty rudimentary below, she does have 2+2 berths plus a basic galley and heads.

A cockpit tent will add considerably to the living area in port.

Numerous other small boats could be considered too, if properly prepared with well-maintained inboard engines.

The spacious pilothouse of the Seaward 25 will keep the crew cosy if the weather takes a turn for the worse. Credit: Peter Cumberlidge

For instance, the Channel Island 22, though primarily intended for coastal and estuary cruising, could be in the running for a frequent stop itinerary, thanks to her pokey twin Volvo diesels and comfy interior.

Owners of boats such as these might, however, prefer cutting through the Caledonian Canal to avoid the rougher waters off Scotland’s northern coastline.

The larger Seaward 25 is a cosy pilothouse cruiser with comfortable accommodation below for two, maybe even four on day passages.

Twin 100hp+ diesels give her all the power you’d need to battle against foul tides and her sea-kindly motion makes her suitable for long passages.

Her spacious and comfortable pilothouse will keep you warm and toasty whatever the weather, while her cockpit has ample room for entertaining at anchor.

Below, she sports a good-size double forepeak berth, a private heads , and a decent size galley with ample stowage.

Sailing yachts 26-30ft LOA for sailing around the UK

There are plenty of capable passage-making boats in this size range, from older budget buys to more recent yachts.

In the budget range, I’d look closely at a decently maintained Contest 28.

Produced between 1976-1981 she is an IOR design but wasn’t taken to extremes and as such is a very stiff, stable boat with a 50% ballast ratio and high topsides.

Her accommodation is somewhat rudimentary but it has all the requirements for offshore cruising, including a comfy quarterberth and long, straight saloon settees.

In 1980 the Trapper 500 was slightly redesigned to become the 501, with an extended galley and a modified keel and rudder.

For slightly more money, boats such as the Twister 28, Trapper 500/1, Moody 27 and Westerly Merlin and Hunter Channel 27 all come to the fore.

The first is a rugged, narrow-beamed long-keeler renowned for her seaworthy performance in heavy weather.

Though somewhat ‘cosy’ below, for a relatively hardy couple she possesses all the basic attributes of a liveaboard boat.

Early boats were wooden, but the later all-GRP models are still valued as wallet-friendly offshore cruisers.

All-rounders

The UK-built Trapper 500/1 was based on the steadfast Canadian C&C27 .

She’s a heavily built, all-round offshore cruiser with a fair turn of speed under sail and a sea-kindly motion under way.

The T500 experienced noticeable weather helm in rough conditions, though, which was alleviated by a rudder redesign in the T501.

Trapper interiors are traditional, with the 501 having a quarterberth at the cost of one of the T500’s two deep cockpit lockers.

Westerly’s 28ft Merlin replaced the popular Konsort and featured a much-improved interior and deck layout.

The Westerly Merlin was designed by Ed Dubois, and came with a fractional rig. It was Westerly’s first model with a three-cabin layout. Credit: David Harding

Early boats had a transom hung rudder , before being upgraded to the 29 with its sugar scoop stern and semi-balanced spade rudder.

New to Westerly then was the Merlin’s inner floor moulding to which the furniture was bonded, providing further stiffness to the hull.

The Moody 27 is a more modern-looking yacht with a wider beam providing extra volume below and shallower underwater lines improving performance under sail.

She’s pretty stiff in a blow and has excellent agility in the gusts, although her transom rudder becomes overloaded if pushed too hard.

A remodel in 1985 formed the Moody 28 with a more modern, stepped transom and semi-balanced spade rudder.

A development of the Ranger 265, only with a higher coachroof and a marginally bigger rig, the Hunter Channel 27 is easily capable of a UK circumnavigation.

With her twin, foiled keels she sails upwind like a fin-keeler and can take full canvas up to a Force 5 thanks to her high-aspect, self-tacking jib , which is ideal for beating against the elements.

All sail control lines are within reach of the tiller, plus she’s nicely balanced and light on the helm.

Though her side decks are quite narrow, sturdy handrails help going forward.

Her cockpit is comfortable and sports a deep locker that accepts most long-term cruising gear.

Below, she offers 1.88m (6ft 2in) headroom, a light and airy saloon and up to six berths including the two saloon settees.

The galley is well equipped with ample stowage and the nav station opposite has a large table and stowage for charts and books.

With a high transom and coamings, the Hallberg-Rassy 29 will be able to cope with the rougher waters off Scotland’s northern coastline. Credit: Colin Work

A moulded GRP heads provides a shower and a wet locker. Another alternative would be the popular Hallberg-Rassy 29.

Launched in 1982 as a ‘go anywhere’ family cruiser, she is remarkably stable in heavy seas.

Her Lloyds-certified, solid GRP hull was reinforced with stringers, while her foam sandwich deck and superstructure offered weight savings and good insulation.

Her longish, cast-iron fin keel is also encapsulated, so there are no keel bolts to worry about.

Although her hull is narrow by modern standards, she does boast a comfortable double vee-berth forward and two excellent saloon sea berths.

Boats with the removable chart table option also had a quarterberth.

Motorboats 26-30ft LOA for sailing around the UK

The Finnish-built, single-engined Aquador 28C is a stalwart motoryacht built with precision and care using top quality materials.

Her roomy wheelhouse opens right out aft to give an unhindered walkway through to the cockpit in fine weather.

She sports a 300hp Volvo diesel driving through a sterndrive transmission and is capable of over 30 knots flat out.

At a more sedate 24 knots she is quiet and economical. There’s good headroom throughout and a very comfortable forepeak berth/day cabin.

Continues below…

Boat hull design: how it impacts performance

Peter Poland explains how boat hull design has evolved over the years and how it affects boat handling and accommodation

Sail boat rigs: the pros and cons of each popular design

Peter Poland looks at the history of popular rig designs and how the different types affect boat performance

Keel types and how they affect performance

Peter Poland looks at the history of keel design and how the different types affect performance

Improve performance by understanding boat design

Øyvind Bordal explains how form stability, LOA, LWL, speed tables and polar diagrams can help you choose the right boat…

Surprisingly for her size, she also has a full width midships cabin beneath the wheelhouse sole, along with heaps of smart cherry wood trim and Corian worktops.

The trusty ‘Nelsonesque’ Seaward 29 started life 30 years ago and is still built in the Isle of Wight today.

Early models are now quite reasonably priced and, being so ruggedly constructed, most are still in pretty good condition too.

Nicely balanced and steady in a choppy sea, her two pokey Yanmar diesels can power her up to nearly 30 knots or cruise quietly and economically in the low twenties.

Later models featured a smart Vessel Control System (VCS), capable of smoothing out the ride by automating the trim adjustment.

Accommodation on the S29 is roomy for a sub-30ft boat, with good size berths below and a well-equipped galley in the spacious wheelhouse.

Sailing yachts 31-35ft LOA for sailing around the UK

Traditional heavy displacement yachts like the Nicholson 32 or 35 never seem to age.

I’ve owned late models of both, so I might be a tad biased, but they really are workhorses of the sea.

The latest owner of my Nic32 recently completed a UK/Ireland circumnavigation without a hitch, albeit she had a new engine, rigging and running gear when I sold her.

The Nic35 was my overall favourite, however.

Being beamier than the 32, she had more space below, bigger water and fuel tank s, a large house battery bank and was generally a little more refined.

Most Nicholson 35s were fitted with a Whitworth wheel steering system. Usually light and responsive, the 35 can display slight weather-helm if over-canvassed. Credit: Colin Work

Another popular classic is the Contessa 32, often described as the definitive offshore cruising yacht.

Without a doubt, the Contessa 32 is a very seaworthy yacht with impressive stability specifications, which has allowed many owners to safely sail the world over with confidence.

The Westerly Fulmar 32/33 is also envied for her competent sailing performance in all weathers.

She’s weighty enough to carry her through an oncoming sea and stiff enough to stand up to full sail up to the top end of a Force 5.

Although not the quickest 32-footer around she handles beautifully on a beat thanks to her responsive helm, plus she tracks well off the wind.

Fulmars were available with either fin or bilge keels, the latter losing a little in leeway terms but gaining loads in convenience for those wishing to creek crawl.

The Westerly Fulmar 32 has a large cockpit for a boat of her size, which with the addition of a cockpit tent, means plenty of living accommodation for long voyages. Credit: Colin Work

In port or at anchor her hinge-up tiller increases available cockpit lounging area, while below her accommodation is warm, comfortable and practical, with a double forepeak berth, straight settees and a cosy quarterberth.

The Vancouver 34 Classic is a sturdy, long-keeled, shoal draft sailing yacht capable of modest speeds but with a powerful demeanour.

When challenged in a gale she’ll happily romp home while remaining stable enough for the crew to safely make and eat a hot meal.

On deck, her cockpit is narrow and deep, with high coamings to keep the water out.

Initially light and positive, her helm gets noticeably heavier if over-canvassed, but downwind her long keel enables her to hold her course as if on rails.

Many cruisers like the flexibility of the cutter rig and appreciate the ability to run under a staysail and triple-reefed mainsail in a gale.

Although tacking her can be somewhat slow, due to the need to haul the yankee around the inner forestay, her displacement enables her to keep way on through the tack and she quickly picks up speed on the new course.

Below, her interior is ideal for long term, open sea cruising. She can sleep up to six, and I like having all the ports openable for ventilation.

The galley is well appointed and the heads very spacious.

The ever-popular, ketch-rigged Fisher 34 motorsailer was purportedly designed to be as seaworthy as a North Sea fishing boat, but with the sailing abilities of a long-distance cruising yacht.

For this reason, she sports a canoe stern, long keel, deep-vee entry and pronounced sheer with high, flared bows and tall bulwarks.

Her rig is powerful enough to enable her to sail at motoring speeds, while remaining protected in her cosy wheelhouse thanks to a large, see-through, sliding hatch.

Renowned for their rugged build quality, below they are fitted out to a high standard, accommodating six crew in a double forecabin, a double aft quarter cabin and a convertible double saloon berth.

Motorboats 31-35ft LOA for sailing around the UK

Once you get over 30ft the ideal motorboat for a UK circumnavigation is a twin-engined, semi-displacement boat.

These offer all the grunt you need to plough through steep seas and adverse currents while being spacious enough to enjoy life on the hook once you arrive.

The Fairline Corniche 31 was praised for her stability when she was first launched back in the 1980s and has now become a sought-after shoestring motor cruiser.

That said, problems with her original twin Volvo diesels can be costly to fix, as can poorly maintained gear on the outdrive models.

The Humber 35 has seven berths, and twin Volvo TAMD40A diesel engines came as standard so cruising is comfortable

The Nelson-derived Channel Islands 32 is a tough, twin-diesel, semi-displacement motoryacht that is ideally suited to long open sea passages, cruising economically at around 18-20 knots.

Despite her very roomy pilothouse, she has a decently sized and well sheltered cockpit too, while below she boasts a surprising amount of living space for her length, featuring four berths in two comfortable cabins, a well-appointed, seamanlike galley, and a roomy heads compartment.

Moving up in size and price, the Askham-designed Humber 35 (also from Nelson origins) features the same fine entry, long keel and round bilges, providing comfortable seagoing characteristics and pronounced form stability at speed.

Sailing yachts 36-40ft LOA for sailing around the UK

The Holman & Pye-designed Rustler 36 started life in 1980 as a development of the earlier Rustler 31, itself a derivative of the legendary Folkboat.

She’s a competent and seaworthy cruising yacht capable of any serious ocean passage.

Though her accommodation is nowhere near as voluminous as a modern yacht she has all the necessities for living aboard comfortably at sea.

Her full long keel, encapsulated ballast, high ballast ratio and relatively conservative cutter rig make her very stable and easy to handle in heavy weather.

The Rustler 36 was a popular choice in the 2018 and 2022 Golden Globe Race

Intended for serious passage making in all weather and sea conditions, she was the choice of the majority of the 2022-23 Golden Globe Race entrants.

Angus Primrose’s robust 1980s cruiser, the Moody 36, was a frequent visitor to various far-flung parts of the world.

She was heavily built, in days when the thickness of GRP was what counted, therefore not the quickest boat around.

However, her centre cockpit not only purveyed a sense of security to the crew but also meant she was ahead of her time with regard to comfort below, and introduced Moody’s future signature feature – a full-width aft double cabin.

Unlike the Rustler’s long keel, the Moody’s fin keel and balanced rudder make her more responsive and agile, while her ample beam provides much more room below, both for living and for stowing equipment and provisions.

The high-volume Moody 36 is balanced to windward, and eats up the miles comfortably offshore. Credit: Marco McGinty/Alamy Stock Photo

Another early British boat, the Westerly Ocean 37, utilised the well-proven and easily driven Dubois-designed Typhoon hull.

The Ocean model added a more powerful rig and a deep, secure cockpit, with sensibly placed deck gear making her easy to sail single-handed.

Below, she is woody and warm with a very traditional layout, albeit with two heads.

The furnishings are solidly put together with no sharp edges, and she is comfortable to live in under way.

At anchor, she doesn’t feel quite as ‘open’ as more modern yachts do, but for those who put build quality before design flair she ticks all the boxes.

Another ideal yacht for this trip would be the Hallberg-Rassy 352 which did a great deal towards establishing the Swedish yard’s reputation for producing steadfast, go-anywhere cruising yachts.

In addition to having a comfortable interior and practical layout for liveaboards, she was one of the first centre-cockpit yachts to incorporate an internal corridor into the aft cabin, removing the need to go via the cockpit.

The Hallberg-Rassy 36 has a masthead sloop rig, an overlapping genoa and fairly small main. Hoisting and r eefing is done at the mast . Credit: Dick Durham

In early versions of the 800-plus HR 352s launched, headroom here was limited but over the following 14 years the deck was twice raised to alleviate this problem.

A long, encapsulated fin keel contains three tons of cast iron ballast with a cutaway forward to assist tacking and manoeuvring.

A full-depth skeg adds support to the rudder, which is semi-balanced to keep the helm light.

Those with a bigger budget but still yearning for the Hallberg-Rassy thoroughbred feel could opt for the equally sea kindly, but even more luxurious Hallberg-Rassy 36.

Though not cheap, a popular mid-range Swedish cruiser of the early 2000s was the Najad 380, a relatively long-keeled, heavy displacement yacht with enough volume to cruise in comfort as a family.

Not only is she sumptuous below with well thought out spacious accommodation but under sail, she’s really well balanced, even in a blow.

Motorboats 36-40ft LOA for sailing around the UK

A very common sight on the water in the 1980-90s, the Fairline 36 came in two versions.

The Sedan was a conventional aft cockpit with flybridge and aft cockpit, whereas the Turbo model, by far the most popular, boasted a large aft cabin with a raised afterdeck.

The Turbo’s aft cabin is full width and the centreline berth is huge. The ensuite and stowage matched the opulence.

Twin 165hp or 200hp Volvo diesels were standard, with the 300hp TAMD61 an option.

The former gave her reasonable performance in the mid-20 knots range, the latter nudged her on to touch 30 knots.

The Fairline 36 was launched in 1983; later versions were more powerful with TAMD60C (255hp) Volvo Penta engines as standard

I’ve often looked longingly at the Aquastar OceanRanger 38, despite preferring to remain with rag and stick for as long as my aged body allows.

She looks like a proper gentleman’s yacht without the towering appendages that adorn many post-millennium motorboats, despite the popular option of a flybridge helm station.

Below, the standard layout on the aft cabin model provides two heads/shower and four permanent berths, fore and aft, with another four on a convertible dinette and convertible settee in the wheelhouse.

The aft cabin/owner’s suite is impressively spacious and boasts a queen-size centreline berth, loads of stowage and large windows letting the light flood in.

There is no doubt about the 38’s all-weather capabilities.

Early models, however, had relatively small 160hp diesels limiting her cruising speed to around 15 knots.

Later these were doubled in size and power to make her capable of a more impressive 25 knots or more.

Are you ready to go sailing around the UK?

Plenty of small boats complete arduous passages safely. The key is preparation.

Provided your boat is seaworthy, properly prepared, and skilfully skippered there’s no reason such a demanding journey as a UK circumnavigation should be a problem.

Size isn’t everything, but obviously once you get above 35ft almost any post-millennium sail or motor yacht should handle the vagaries of such a trip, along with many 1970-2000 boats too.

The decider is often how you plan to sail.

If you’re keen to tick off the headlands and get around ASAP then you need a robust boat with big tanks that is capable of handling heavy seas.

However, if you plan to potter, day sail, anchor in nice places and stay out of the rough stuff on inclement days then your choice of craft is much wider.

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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Moody 36 MkII: a centre-cockpit cruiser that’s practical and fun

• Duncan Kent
• June 17, 2021

The build quality, comfort and seaworthiness of the Moody 36 MkII makes her a popular family cruiser, as Duncan Kent discovers

The Moody 36's excellent balance means there is little or no weather helm. Credit: Tom Benn/[email protected]

Product Overview

Manufacturer:.

The Bill Dixon-designed Moody 36 combines practicality, comfort, sea kindliness and high-quality build, making her an ideal cruising yacht.

The Moody 36 MkII might be described as a family coastal cruiser, but she has a performance not previously seen in Moody’s centre-cockpit range of yachts and is easily seaworthy enough to cross oceans – as many have.

A development of his earlier 35, the Moody 36 MkII had a slightly slimmer hull and longer waterline, which resulted in a noticeably quicker and better-balanced boat.

Though most owners buy Moodys for the considerable comforts they offer, they were meticulously constructed and have excellent sea-keeping abilities too.

Design and construction of the Moody 36 MkII

The Moody 36’s near-plumb stem, attractive retroussé stern and pleasantly rising sheer line with teak-capped bulwark give her a classy, yet modern look.

She carries maximum beam a long way aft, providing sufficient internal space for her trademark roomy aftercabin and offering way more useful stowage than is available in many of today’s popular cruising yachts.

Built at Marine Projects in Plymouth (now Princess Yachts), a total of 118 Moody 36 MkIIs were constructed to Lloyd’s 100A1 yardstick.

Hulls were laid up by hand, using mat and woven rovings with waterproof isophthalic resins.

Owners of the Moody 36 MkII could choose between a bilge, shoal or deep fin keel. Credit: Tom Benn/[email protected]

They were stiffened with balsa-cored frames and stringers, and finished with bonded floors and bulkheads for additional strength.

The deck is balsa-cored, but with hefty plywood backing plates laminated in under winches and deck gear.

Finally, the hull-deck joint was through-bolted and then bonded over, before being capped with smart teak.

A choice of bilge, shoal (bulbed) or deep-fin keels was offered and her large, semi-balanced rudder is supported by a half-skeg, making her more resistant to steering damage from floating debris and stray lines.

Some sailors like centre cockpits, some don’t.

They tend to be a little small compared to aft cockpit boats but many owners prefer being high above the sea and love the extra-large aft cabin it enables.

Downsides include more movement in rolly seas, a higher boom and centre of effort on the main, and poor visibility ahead to leeward with the genoa unfurled.

The cockpit layout is straightforward, with all sail controls led aft through clutches on the coachroof.

The genoa winches are within reach of the helm, as is the mainsheet behind, making single-handing easy.

The large sprayhood provides good protection and easy access to the winches.

Continues below…

Our verdict on the Moody 36

What’s she like to sail? These solidly built, medium-displacement cruisers are capable of a very reasonable pace in open seas,…

Moody S38: a good all-round family cruising boat

Looking for a good all-round family cruising boat with a good turn of speed, there are plenty of strong contenders,…

A split backstay and wide rail gate give good access to the transom steps, although it lacks a deeper platform for deck showering and unloading the tender.

Her decks are wide and clear thanks to inboard chain plates and coachroof-mounted genoa tracks.

The foredeck is clutter-free and includes a deep chain locker with a windlass plinth.

Six large mooring cleats are mounted on the bulwarks, making them dead easy to access when coming alongside.

The decks continue all the way aft, where two deep lazarette lockers house most of the loose deck gear.

Below decks on the Moody 36 MkII

Because of the centre cockpit, the companionway ladder is necessarily tall and steep.

The saloon is spacious, warm and cosy with plenty of nicely finished solid wood trims.

Headroom is just over 1.83m/6ft, but watch your head going aft through the corridor.

Set well forward, the saloon is slightly narrower than many, but well compensated for by placing the settees well outboard and making the overhead lockers fairly shallow.

The convertible, U-shaped port settee offers seating for six around the table while thick settee cushions and abundant teak joinery provide a luxurious ambience.

The saloon is cosy and six can eat around the table. Credit: Tom Benn/[email protected]

The dropleaf table doesn’t have a fiddled centre, which is irritating, but does have excellent bottle and glass drawers.

A small step down improves headroom in the forecabin, which contains a decent vee berth with reasonable floor space.

There is ample stowage under the berth, as well as two hanging lockers with shelves, plus a further six lockers above the berth and a large forehatch.

Moving aft, the L-shaped galley is well-equipped, but arranged a little awkwardly.

The worktop area is generous, especially with cooker and sink covers in place, but having the cooker under the cockpit sole limits both light and ventilation.

Both the cooker and fridge are large and there’s storage galore for food, crockery and pans.

The nav station has a forward facing chart table. Credit: Tom Benn/[email protected]

Behind the companionway steps is a central ‘pod’ that provides extra worktop and stowage, as well as housing the fuel tank, battery switches and washboards.

Opposite is a well-appointed nav station with large, forward-facing chart table, its own seat, a comprehensive electrical panel, and plenty of room for nav instruments.

Two corridors lead aft. The starboard one contains a single bunk; the port corridor houses the head, also accessible from the aft cabin.

There’s plenty of elbow room and a separate shower but headroom in the heads is only 5ft 10in.

It’s well organised with good stowage, a large hatch, and a deep sink.

The L-shaped galley has plenty of workspace. Credit: Tom Benn/[email protected]

The spacious master suite aft has always been a popular feature with any centre-cockpit Moody.

Although only 1.83m/6ft long, the Moody 36’s centrally-mounted berth is a luxurious 1.40m/5ft 4in wide.

Headroom is limited to 1.75m/5ft 9in, but the cabin boasts a wealth of stowage plus a dressing table.

Natural light is surprisingly good, with a large overhead hatch, opening side ports and a portlight above the bed head.

Access to the 40hp Volvo diesel engine beneath the cockpit is particularly good, thanks to all-round removable panels, and the steering gear is easily reached under the aft bunk.

Both water and fuel tanks are a good size for cruising too.

Rig and sailplan

The Moody 36 MkII is masthead-rigged with a thick-sectioned, well-supported twin-spreader Seldén mast, boom and gas-sprung kicker.

A triple-reefed, semi-battened mainsail was standard, with luff and leach reefing lines for the first two leading into the cockpit.

The standard headsail was a 125% furling genoa with coachroof-mounted tracks, giving a tight sheeting angle for increased pointing ability.

With the exception, maybe, of the ‘S’ models (31S & 38S), which are reasonably swift, Dixon’s CC Moodys are steady cruisers with conservative sail plans.

All are capable of a respectable pace in open seas, however, where they offer a particularly sea-kindly motion.

Thanks to the inboard genoa tracks they are also pretty close-winded, but they will lose speed rapidly if pinched too tight.

Her fastest point of sail is 50° off the apparent wind, when she surges forward relentlessly, almost oblivious of the sea state.

Control lines on the Moody 36 MkII lead to the cockpit making sailing solo easy. Credit: Tom Benn/[email protected]

The Moody 36 MkII is simple to sail single-handedly, with all the sail controls within easy reach of the wheel, and her excellent balance results in little or no weather helm.

She also boasts a healthy 35% ballast ratio and even with the shoal draft keel she is reassuringly stiff thanks to her weighty ballast bulb.

On a reach with a fair breeze she will easily average between 6.5-7.5 knots in all but the choppiest conditions.

Downwind, she requires a good size spinnaker or chute to keep her flying.

Moody Owners Association ( www.moodyowners.org )

The Moody Owners Association (MOA) aims to serve as custodian of technical information; provide a forum for owners’ experiences; promote social and sailing opportunities and provide a point of contact for prospective owners.

Owners experiences of the Moody 36 MkII

S/y cantata (2000).

Cantata is well equipped including new sails. Credit: Dick Holness

Dick and Angela Holness bought bilge-keeled Cantata in 2015 to replace their Moody S31, primarily for the extra accommodation.

She came pretty standard but since buying her they have carried out myriad upgrades, including new instruments, AIS, MFD, Navtex and VHF extension, now all networked via NMEA2000.

They have also added new batteries with a monitor, gas alarm, sound system, electric windlass, kicker strut, Autoprop, solar panels, electric toilet and new sails, which must make her one of the best-equipped Moody 36s around!

Asked if they’d had any problems, Dick says: ‘One fault at purchase was a leaking rudder stock housing, apparently a common problem on these boats and something I found I could largely fix myself. Also, some 36s, including mine, had a particular type of stanchion fixing through the toe rail that made them prone to leaks.’

Dick, who is co-author of the East Coast Pilot , started sailing dinghies at the age of 12 and continued to race them for nearly 50 years.

He started cruising around 25 years ago and has owned a Hunter Horizon 26, Sadler 29 and the Moody S31.

Based on the River Swale in Kent, Dick and Angela sail predominantly up the East Coast, with occasional trips across the Channel.

‘Under sail, Cantata is quite docile really and probably under-canvassed,’ says Dick.

‘She’s not good in light airs, being quite heavy, but her sea-going qualities are impressive if we get caught out in worse conditions than expected. With 15-20 knots on the beam, though, she gallops along with a smooth, easy motion.

‘Although I occasionally single-hand, Angela and I usually sail together, which is reasonably easy, although as we get creakier, I confess to doing rather more “genoa only” sailing than we used to. However, the change to a fully battened main has made life a fair bit easier. I would guess that the majority of 36s have in-mast furling and, bearing in mind our age, perhaps it might have been wiser to have found one with it. Cantata is very seaworthy and hasn’t really got any vices, although her high freeboard can catch the wind when manoeuvring in marinas.

‘She is very comfortable for long periods on board as there’s bags of space. But if we were off long term, I would probably upgrade and better insulate the fridge, plus install dinghy davits. I haven’t fitted heating yet as it’s so difficult to retrofit hot air ducting.

‘We did a long cruise down the French Channel coast a few years ago. Both crossings of the Dover Strait were wilder than expected but the boat just coped with it all. And with only 1.2m draught she’s a very capable ditch-crawler.’

S/Y Ellen Marvel (1998, HN 61)

John and Lesley Oldham regularly cruise the West Country and France. Credit: Tom Benn/[email protected]

John and Lesley Oldham, 73, have owned the shoal-keeled Ellen Marvel for 19 years.

‘Being the show boat at Ijmuiden, she already had a high specification, including leather upholstery and extra opening portlights, but the first owner also had heating and a bow thruster installed.

‘Our first successful improvement was to remake the aft cabin berth with a deeper mattress and underlaying slats. Venturing outside to secure the gas also became tedious, so we fitted an electric valve/sensor. I also replaced the fridge with a modern 12V model and installed a holding tank. Finally, we increased the battery capacity and included a larger shore power charger, smart alternator regulator and a galvanic isolator.

‘We fitted a Bruntons Autoprop early on, which increased our sailing speed by between 0.5 to 1.0 knot. Later we added a rod kicker with the control line led aft. We also replaced the manual windlass with an electric one and moved it forward to help prevent the chain bunching up. Our most recent upgrade has been to fit dinghy davits.

‘The instrumentation has been upgraded with a Raymarine chart plotter in the cockpit, Quantum radar, AIS700, an Icom DSC VHF and an ICS Nav6plus Navtex and instrument repeater. Plus, we now have an internal Wi-Fi network with router for marina Wi-Fi.

‘We’ve had a few faults, but not many. The pressure relief valve on the hot water tank often discharged into the bilge, which we corrected by fitting an expansion tank, and a persistent leak into the forepeak underfloor was eventually diagnosed as anchor locker drain failure.

‘The original genoa was poorly cut and the positioning of the shrouds and track prevented her from being sailed close-hauled. The original sailmakers had compensated with a belly in the foot but our new sail corrected much of this with a higher-cut clew.’

John and Lesley began sailing by taking flotilla holidays in their early 40s and soon decided to get their own boat.

They bought a new Moody S31 but soon found it too small for their needs as impending retirement, with the option of longer cruises, loomed.

‘We sail regularly as a couple, though often we sail in company with friends in their own boats. We are mainly day sailors with a penchant for overnighting in marinas. With days to spare and a fair forecast, we cruise the south-west coast from our base in Plymouth. For our main holiday we prefer the Channel Islands, Western Normandy and North or South Brittany.

‘Under sail she is not the most close-winded but on a fetch or beam reach she is delightful. On a very broad reach the genoa becomes blanketed by the main so we switch to a poled-out cruising chute. Our new mainsail is fully battened, loose footed and has a decent roach, which makes it much more powerful than the original and consequently requires reefing earlier. The two of us handle her easily as the mainsheet is within reach of the helm and all lines are led back. The stack pack also helps, as does the autopilot.’

What the experts say about the Moody 36 MkII

Nick Vass B,Sc B,Ed HND FRINA MCMS DipMarSur YS, Marine Surveyor www.omega-yachtservices.co.uk

The later Moody 36, built by Marine Projects in Plymouth, is a contemporary-looking yacht that has stood the test of time.

During surveys I have found fairly large blisters on the topsides on several boats, mainly around the portside anchor locker drain but these are from delamination rather than osmosis.

I have concluded that water has entered through the drain hole and saturated the plywood stiffeners that protect the hull from the anchor chain.

The area then stays wet and might delaminate.

My advice has been to keep the anchor locker drain holes free of debris, only have chain in the locker and no other clutter, and paint the area around the drain hole with epoxy to prevent water ingress.

Keel bolts are also a concern on the Moody 36.

Moody used high-tensile steel studs, nuts and backing plates rather than stainless steel.

Although high-tensile steel is stronger than stainless, it rusts, so it’s a good idea to keep the bilge dry and paint the exposed parts of the studs, nuts and backing plates to keep them rust-free.

Rather than using real teak slats, Moody used teak veneer on plywood for deck and cockpit seat coverings, which quickly delaminated.

Fortunately, most did not have it on the decks.

Most Moody 36s I have surveyed have had Volvo Penta MD2040B engines, which are more robust than their D1-40 successor.

However, they do suffer from limescale build-up in the coolant system and their iron castings can become porous.

Check the engine for signs of overheating and get an engineer to take the cover off the heat exchanger.

The exhaust elbow will need to be replaced every 10 years or so, too, as they clog up.

The saildrive diaphragm seal will likely have been replaced several times by now, even on a late example.

Check the service history to make sure that the seal has been replaced, as it can be costly.

There should be a date stamp on the seal but it’s sometimes hard to see.

Ben Sutcliffe-Davies, Marine Surveyor and full member of the Yacht Brokers Designers & Surveyors Association (YDSA) www.bensutcliffemarine.co.uk

I’ve surveyed many Moodys over the years and they do sell quickly on the second-hand market, but it is essential to look carefully at them before purchase.

Check the ply-faced teak in the cockpit.

This material was popular with many boat builders during the 1990s and 2000s.

On most of the boats I’ve surveyed over the last eight years, the ply-faced teak has needed replacing.

Nick mentions the keel bolts being high- tensile; I, in many ways, prefer the reliability over stainless but it is essential to keep an eye on the fastenings.

This can be difficult on the bilge-keel version due to the water tanks under the side berths!

The main cap chain plate anchorage within the saloon is impossible to inspect with the fitted internal joinery.

This is a concern especially if high moisture is identified on the side decks in that area and the covers are wet internally.

Many owners have cut small inspection hatches in the sides of the covers.

I am aware of at least two failures of the chain plates after the fastenings behind these panels failed.

The rudder is supported by a substantial skeg and I have had several experiences of very high moisture in both the blade and the skeg around the support shoe where fastenings have loosened over time.

Alternatives to the Moody 36 MkII to consider

Island packet 370.

A Yamnar 4JH3BE 56hp engine came as standard. Credit: Graham Snook/Yachting Monthly

Florida-built Island Packets were constructed to a high specification and supplied with a substantial inventory.

Although the 370 has high topsides and a tall coachroof, her pleasant sheer line lends her a well-balanced look.

Construction was meticulous, using vinylester resin infusion, tri-axial weave glass and PolyClad2 foam, finished with an ultra-high gloss Durashield gelcoat.

The hull/deck join is through-bolted and bonded and she has a full-length shallow keel with encapsulated lead ballast and a deep rudder, connected to the keel at the foot.

A deep companionway descends into a cosy, bright saloon.

The table folds away against the main bulkhead, hiding a comprehensive drinks cabinet, and all cabinetry work is top quality.

The settees make good berths, the port side converting to a double by sliding out an extension board.

Stowage is plentiful as the 600-litre freshwater tank sits beneath the saloon sole and ventilation is ample through the 11 opening portlights.

Her superb galley houses a huge fridge, full-size cooker, microwave, water filter, twin sinks and copious stowage.

The aft quarters contain an offset double berth and a nav station/chart table, with a removable bulkhead panel dividing it from the saloon.

Side decks are well protected by the high coachroof. Credit: Graham Snook/Yachting Monthly

The forecabin features a roomy island berth and en suite heads with shower stall.

The cockpit is well organised with wide coamings incorporating rope lockers.

The steering pedestal supports a table and a stout grab bar, and a high bridge deck and two 50mm/2in drains prevent water collecting.

Under the aft seats are deep stowage lockers.

Her decks are snag-free with shrouds and tracks terminating on the teak-capped bulwarks.

On the foredeck are twin rollers and chain lockers.

Her masthead rig is keel-stepped with single, straight spreaders and forward/aft lowers, with single chain plates.

The cutter-rig model has a self-tacking staysail with boom and a 110% high-cut genoa/yankee.

Although the headsail winches are near the helm, the mainsheet and all other sail controls are on the coachroof.

Under power she has plenty of grunt but like all long-keelers takes her time making directional alterations so a bow thruster is worth having.

The Maxi 1100 has a spacious and deep aft cockpit. Credit: Tom Benn/[email protected]

The Maxi 1100 superseded the 1050, giving improved sailing performance and accommodation.

Designed by ex-Olympic racing helmsman, Pelle Petterson, she has a fine entry, near-plumb stem, shallow bilge and a retroussé transom.

In addition to being quite quick, Maxis were extremely well built.

The 1100 has a carbon-reinforced floor grid that dissipates the rig and keel loads.

Above the waterline, hull and deck are a Divinycell foam sandwich, encapsulated in a vinylester resin-infused, multi-weave skin.

A deep fin keel with a 2.4-tonne lead ballast bulb or an extended shoal fin were offered, both with a deep spade rudder.

She has a tall, keel-stepped mast with twin, swept spreaders.

Shrouds lead to a single inboard chainplate each side, connected to the hull frame.

A gas-sprung kicker and powerful backstay tensioner control the main, which is slab-reefed with lazy jacks.

A deep cockpit sports a big wheel, but the helm area is spacious, with foot supports and flat coaming seats.

Sail controls are led aft.

Coachroof-mounted jib tracks keep the sidedecks clear but the handrails are too short.

Her foredeck sports a short bow-plank and a deep anchor locker with windlass.

The long, straight saloon settees provide room for six to dine comfortably around the sturdy, well-fiddled table.

Her large aft cabin has a roomy double berth, beneath which are the water tank and batteries.

The forecabin is quite spacious too.

Under sail she’s fast, stiff and easy to handle, with a light, positive helm. She tacks rapidly and effortlessly, and her large wheel enables the helm to sit out with the mainsheet to hand and a clear view forward.

The Sunbeam 37 holds it price due to its high build quality. Credit: Sunbeam Yachts

Built in Austria by Schochl Yachtbau and designed by J&J to withstand the rigours of the North and Baltic Seas, the centre cockpit Sunbeam 37 was solidly constructed to a high standard, using top- quality materials and components.

They also featured a comprehensive standard inventory, which included a 55hp Yanmar 4JH3E marine diesel engine and encapsulated lead ballast.

She has timeless looks with a positive sheer and streamline superstructure.

All had teak-capped toe rails and many also had full teak decks.

Below, the beautifully crafted, dark mahogany interior gives her a warm atmosphere without being too gloomy.

The layout is similar to the Moody 36 MkII and the proportions are equally generous, especially in the aft owner’s cabin where her huge island double berth dominates and the en suite heads are a real boon.

Duncan Kent is a technical writer for marine publications and websites

The forecabin is equally plush with plenty of stowage but has no en suite.

The later 37.1 model had an en suite head to port, in place of one of the tall hanging lockers.

She has a longitudinal galley, running aft along the corridor, that is well-equipped with bags of easily accessible stowage although, like the Moody, the far end is a little dark.

The forward-facing nav station has plenty of chart and instrument stowage.

Under sail, she is a powerful performer thanks to her generous sail plan.

With her deep, lead-ballasted fin keel and large, semi-balanced rudder she is stiff, quick and easy to manoeuvre, well-balanced and light on the helm.

The Sunbeam 37 tends to hold her price on the used boat market, easily as well as the most popular Swedish-built yachts.

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Inland boating holidays

Take your very own behind-the-scenes tour of britain, passing slowly through the english countryside, and into the heart of some of our best loved towns and cities, our holidays, great british boating offers a range of canal boat holidays on the 2,000 miles of britain’s inland waterways, with all of the information you need to plan and make the most of your time. you can adventure at your own pace along our recommended routes, watching out for wildlife and stopping to enjoy traditional pubs, tea rooms and country walks, as well as exciting historic attractions and cultural events., our peaceful canals and rivers offer a great way to relax and discover britain from a unique perspective. choose from hundreds of top quality boats offering all the comforts of home, and all operated by established canal boat holiday companies..

Our canal boat hire operators offer a range of holidays from each starting point.

Short breaks are three-night weekends or four night mid-week holidays. They are great for beginners, providing the chance to get a taste of life afloat on Britain’s inland waterways.

One week holidays provide seven nights away, starting on a Friday or a Saturday.  A week afloat offers the chance to travel further and explore more waterside attractions.

Longer holidays can be 10-days, two weeks or even longer.  These holidays offer the chance to travel round some of the larger circuits, taking in a wide range of landscapes and destinations.

To find out more about the different holiday options available, please use our interactive map below.

Please use the Key to the left of the map to view recommended Attractions and Places of Interest

Northern Region

From the quiet remoteness of the leeds & liverpool canal where it crosses the pennines, to the regenerated waterfronts of exciting cities like manchester, leeds and liverpool, britain’s northern waterways offer canal boat holiday makers a fantastic choice of routes with many iconic canal structures..

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From peaceful country villages with historic local pubs, to some of britain’s best-loved towns and cities with world famous attractions like shakespeare’s stratford and warwick castle, our central waterways offer the chance to see the heart of england from a unique perspective..

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From the majesty of the royal river thames to the peaceful countryside of the kennet & avon canal, the waterways of southern england offer narrowboat holiday-makers the chance to enjoy some of britain’s best loved countryside, as well visit iconic cities like world heritage status bath and oxford..

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It’s easy to learn how to steer a narrowboat and operate the locks. You don’t need a licence and all our narrowboat hire operators provide expert tuition and detailed pre-arrival information.

Easy Access

Great British Boating offers the choice of over 40 canal boat hire departure points, and most are located within a reasonable train or taxi ride from an international airport. Transfers can easily be arranged.

Things to see & do

From quiet country pubs and village churches, to exciting historic attractions where history and culture come to life, you’ll find plenty of places to visit on your canal journey.

Warwick Castle and River Avon

This jaw-dropping castle on the banks of the river avon is almost certainly britain’s greatest medieval experience, along with over 1,000 years of fascinating history to explore. map.

Royal Shakespeare Theatre

This magnificent 1,040 seat theatre on the banks of the river avon in the heart of stratford-upon-avon, is dedicated to the famous english playwright and poet william shakespeare. map.

Walk the Heart of England Way

This popular and scenic 160 km walk which takes you through the english midlands, meets the grand union canal at the navigation inn, lapworth, next to kingswood bridge. map.

Worcester Cathedral and River Severn

Overlooking the river severn, with royal tombs, medieval cloisters and magnificent victorian stained glass, this is one of england’s most famous and iconic cathedrals. map, testimonials, take a look at what some of our customers say about their holidays with us., the stratford canal, leonard, utrecht. nl.

To sum up, we had a great week on the boat, with our captain (my wife) receiving praise at several moments from other more experienced boaters and the crew receiving offers to be hired by other captains 😉

The Warwickshire Ring

Elizabeth, wiesbaden, germany.

Their boat was excellent value, and when we needed help, they responded immediately. The staff were friendly and thoughtful, and they were completely dedicated to making sure that our holiday continued without a hitch

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It was a great adventure as we went through over 20 locks. Stopped in many villages to eat in the pubs. Took a bus to Warwick Castle and Stratford

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Boatbuilding in Britain: Guide to Great British Boatyards

Nigel Sharp dips his toe into a few of the British boatyards busy with a wide variety of projects on the go.

Spirit yachts, ipswich.

Spirit Yachts have recently announced that they have been commissioned to build a replica of a Q Class yacht called Falcon. The original boat was designed by Burgess, Swasey & Paine and built by the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company in 1926 and she has recently been restored in the USA. It her owner who has commissioned the new boat. Using the original lines and sail plan, the design has been updated by Dykstra Naval Architects to allow for strip planked construction and modern deck hardware and rigging systems. She will be completed in 2026 to coincide with the original boat’s centenary. 

With regard to other new-builds, a Spirit C72 (the third 72 to be completed in three years) was handed over to her owner in June, in time for her to come third in class in the company’s own regatta in Guernsey ; the fifth Spirit 52 is currently being commissioned prior to her departure to Italy; and the first P50 powerboat is due for completion towards the end of next year.

This British boatyard has also been busy refitting various boats previously built there. These include two 2007 boats – the Spirit 56 Free Spirit and Spirit 52 Flight of Durgan (formerly Flight of Ufford when she was owned by company co-founder Sean McMillan) – which have now had new teak decks, using teak that was purchased prior to 2020. Free Spirit has now returned to the Mediterranean while Flight of Durgan is still at the yard and is also benefitting from a new keel and engine, interior upgrades and revarnish throughout. Fjaella, a 2020 P70 motor yacht, has recently left the yard having had a reconfiguration of the aft cabins and a superstructure respray. 

Ben Harris & Co, Gweek

In April Ben Harris and his team completed a second 23ft 1” gaff cutter to Ed Burnett’s design number 110. Following Panacea in 2019, Galateia differs in only minor ways, with a slightly longer coachroof, a lifting bowsprit for economical mooring in marinas, and a more comprehensive galley fit-out. The two boats are now based just a mile or so apart, in St Just-in-Roseland and Mylor. Ben has also been working on a couple of restorations. Galene is a Teal design built by Luke Brothers in 1935 which has now benefited from recaulking of both the hull and deck, a rebuilt coachroof, and new paint and varnish; while Phelia – a 26ft sloop similar to a Twister, designed by Kim Holman and built by Uphams in Brixham in the 1960s – has had a more comprehensive scope of work including replacement of several hull planks and deck beams, re-sheathing of the deck, an engine overhaul, renewal of some of the plumbing and electrics and new rigging. On top of this he has been maintaining the paint and varnish on the 36ft Buchanan-designed Blue Saluki as well as on three gaff cutters that he previously built: Panacea, Constance and Alva. 

Furthermore he has recently been asked to make a new mast for Saoirse, a Harrison Butler Bogle design which broke hers in the recent Falmouth Classics regatta; he is currently training an apprentice from New Zealand who, as well as helping with the yard’s main body of work, is building his own Ian Oughtred-designed Auk 7ft 8” dinghy; and due at the yard soon is San Domenica, an 18ft 1960s outboard runabout for hull repairs.

Elephant Boatyard, Bursledon

The Elephant Boatyard currently has two projects which they are working on in conjunction with their owners. Aline is a 1909 Alfred Mylne-designed gaff cutter which has recently been acquired by a New Zealand owner. This British boatyard has been doing repair work to the stem, frames and deck. She needs a fair amount of additional work and this will be shared between the owner and the yard.

Merica III is a 5-ton gaff cutter which was designed by GU Laws and built by J Jarvis in Burnham-on-Crouch in 1908. She has been out of the water for about 40 years during which time all her steamed oak ribs have been replaced along with her stem and stern post. Although her New Zealand kauri planking is in good condition, a great deal of work is now needed to get her hull watertight. That is currently the priority before the next stage of the project – a new deck and so on – is tackled, again with the owners and the yard working together. 

Also in the yard are Whispering Spirit, A Spirit 37 which is having repairs to the aft deck; and Becca, a Shearwater 45 sloop – designed by Dudley Dix and built Acheson Yachts in South Africa – which is having her teak deck refurbished and her topsides painted. 

Pendennis Shipyard, Falmouth

At the beginning of this year, the 127ft motor yacht Amazone arrived at Pendennis Shipyard . Amazone was designed and built by John I Thorneycroft in Southampton in 1936 for Commandant L Hemeleers-Shenley, a Belgian naval attaché based in London. In the early 1950s she was owned by Sidney Cotton who cruised extensively in the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, and used her as a base from which to negotiate oil contracts. She was later renamed Welsh Liberty and did charter work. She was probably last in commission in the early ‘90s, and from 2000 was used as a house boat on the River Seine. 

After being transported to Falmouth on a heavy lift ship, she was lifted out of the water at Pendennis so that her hull could be scanned and a lines plan produced. Her interior has now been almost stripped back to bare steel. Meanwhile the design process for a proposed restoration has been ongoing – GL Watson are producing new plans for her interior and exterior layout and styling, and Pendennis is collaborating with Lateral Naval Architects on the technical specifications – and this is expected to be completed in August. “Then the serious work will begin,” said William Collier of GL Watson .

Harbour Marine Services, Ipswich and Southwold

Harbour Marine Services have recently been carrying out a great variety of refit and restoration work at their two yards. Several of the projects involve twin screw motor yachts including Chinda, a Silver Leaf 46 designed by John Bain and built by Andersen RIgden & Perkins in Whitstable in 1946, which has had a new stem and apron, replacement of some planking and realignment of the A-brackets and shafts; a general refit and stripping or varnish on the 46ft Liseta, designed by Guthrie Penman and built by Itchenor Shipyard 1957; the 1950 McGruer 41 Jorvik which won the award for best restoration and presentation at the Thames Traditional Boat Festival following her rebuild; the 1969 Bates 45 Amoreena which has had a refurbishment of her teak deck as well as extensive paint and varnish work; replacement planking and frames on Lady Kathryn which was built by Enterprise Small Craft Company in Rock Ferry in 1929; and the 1959 Bates 40 Karinda which has had repairs to her damaged gunwale. Magyar, which was built by Saunders Shipyard in Cowes in 1939 and was rebuilt at Harbour Marine Services six years ago, is back again for refurbishment of her tanks and Beta engines, repairs to broken timbers, and painting and varnishing. 

Other current or recent projects in this British Boatyard include a complete rebuild of Grillet, a historic 36ft German naval launch built in 1932; Josephine, an Andre Hoek Truly Classic 51 which has had a new Nanni engine and drive systems, repairs to leaking chain plates and a new set of sails by One Sails; a mini refit on the Yachting World 5-tonner Dynamene; and new joinery, wiring, wheelhouse roof, tanks and systems on Tara, a 42ft Humber trading barge. 

Amongst the vessels lined up for refit work in the near future are the 1960 Bates 33 Hippocampus; the Bates 45 Sunstar; and the McGruer 42 yawl Gigi.

Suffolk Yacht Harbour, Levington

As Kim Holman was a founding director when Suffolk Yacht Harbour was built in 1967, it is poignant that the yard has become something of a “rescue centre” (as MD Josh Major puts it) for one of his iconic designs, the Stella. The third and fourth of these – Star Shell (which belonged to Kim Holman himself) and Munter, built in 1959 and 1962 respectively – are currently being redecked and having their hulls sheathed in glass and epoxy. To carry out the latter work, the boats are turned upside down, the ballast keels removed, and then West G Flex epoxy is poured between the lands, before the hull is sheathed in triaxial glass and epoxy. 

The British boatyard has also found itself specialising in restoring classic Fairey motor yachts . They have worked on five Huntsman 28s (one of which belongs to Josh himself) which have had varying amounts of work including new engines, tanks, wiring and decks as well as cosmetic paint and varnish work. Speculative work is about to begin on another Huntsman 28, Huntsman of Wight. Initially the hull and deck will be repaired and renewed as necessary to create a “blank canvas” to allow a potential owner to specify their own engines, interior and so on. 

Another project currently under way in this British Boatyard is the refit of Mouse, a 1972 Swan 43 which is having a refurbished teak deck (in which the fastening holes and seams are being deepened to allow for the wear that has taken place), new iroko toerails, new wiring and electronics and the reinstatement  of a trim tab which had previously been glassed into a fixed position. 

A & R Way, Argyll

The British boatyard, A&R’s, current major project is the restoration of Camellia of Rhu, a McGruer 8-Metre cruiser/racer built in 1959. The boat had suffered from ingress of water around the chainplates and from damage to the frames previously caused by iron floors (although these had already been replaced by bronze ones) and so about half of the frames have been replaced with new laminated ones and repairs have been caried out to almost all the others. About 70% of the planking has also been renewed along with the decks and the cockpit. A new Beta 25HP diesel engine has been installed along with new systems, and the boat is due to be relaunched in August. 

Also in the shed at the moment is Hatasoo, designed and built by William Fife III in 1894 as one of the Clyde 17/19ft class (referring to waterline and overall lengths respectively). She was highly successful, winning 100 prizes in her first three seasons. She is in very original condition but needs a lot of work, and is currently the subject of much debate as to whether she should be restored or taken to a museum, in which case it is possible that a replica may be built. 

Another boat of about 19ft, this one clinker, is Isabella is being repaired. She belongs to the Tiree Maritime Trust whose aim is to preserve boats with historical connections to the island of Tiree. And a new 12ft dinghy was recently completed for a family who own an uninhabited island near Crinan.

Due in for winter work are another 8-Metre cruiser/racer for frame repairs, and a Frans Maas 41 for some deck work.

Berthon, Lymington

Berthon has recently secured the contract to work on a third World War Two military vessel. For the last ten years the company has been carrying out annual service work on two British boats, both built by the British Powerboat Company: the 1936 HSL102 (a Dunkirk Little Ship) and the 1942 MGB81 (which took part in the D-Day landings). These have now been joined by an American so-called crash boat, P-619 which was built in 1943 by the Miami Shipbuilding Corporation and spent the remainder of the war serving with the USAAF in the Pacific rescuing downed (yes downed not drowned!) airmen. She had a long journey to get to Berthon, from Vancouver to Fort Lauderdale by lorry and then by ship to Southampton. After a number of structural repairs have been carried out, she is expected to remain in UK waters. 

Meanwhile work continues on Sardonyx, the 40ft sloop designed by Fred Parker and built by AH Moody & Sons in 1958. Almost 50% of the planking has been renewed in iroko; all the frames have been replaced with new ones in laminated oak; and the coachroof has been disassembled to allow renewal of deck beams and refastening of the carlines. The work is expected to be completed by the end of the year. 

This plethora of traditional work has a downside in that progress on the West Solent One Design Ripple, which was built at the yard in 1926, has come to a temporary halt. Her restoration began in 2012 and has been used as a training programme for the yard’s apprentices at various times, and will be again as soon as time allows. 

David Heritage Racing Yachts, Cowes

David Heritage and his team specialise in small keelboats, both GRP and timber. They have built 70 Etchells 22s and 10 Victorys, all in GRP and have restored a number of timber XODs. A couple of years ago the company completed the restoration of the Dragon Bluebottle which was built by Camper & Nicholsons in 1947 as a wedding present from the members of Island Sailing Club to the then Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip. The work involved temporary removal of all the planking, renewal of many of the frames, wood keel and deck, and a new rig. Soon after her restoration she came very close to winning the Edinburgh Cup (the class’s UK national championship) and she recently won the French Dragon championships 75 years after doing so the first time. 

The company has also recently restored another royal yacht, the Flying Fifteen Coweslip which is now a visitor attraction along with Britannia in Edinburgh. 

Another restoration recently completed was to the 1926 West Solent One Design Harlequin . This is David’s own boat so he did most of the work himself in evenings and weekend over a period of about six years. The bottom four planks and all the frames and timbers were renewed, along with the stern post, outer stem, beam shelf and deck. With David at the helm, Harlequin was the overall winner at the Cowes Spring Classics regatta in May, and at the BCYC regatta in July she was the overall winner of the “Je Ne Sais Quoi” prize as voted by all other other competitors. 

The company is currently restoring a Fairey Huntsman which is structurally sound, but will benefit from a great deal of TLC. 

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Passengers scream as superyacht worth £95m crashes into smaller boat

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This is the shocking moment a £95 million superyacht crashed into a smaller boat with at least six people on board.

Footage shows the 232 ft boat named Ice gliding through the water as it heads towards another boat off the coast of Yalıkavak, Turkey on Saturday.

Passengers on the smaller boat can be heard screaming as the superyacht sails towards them.

The vessel’s bow then crashed into the stern of a 101ft motor yacht carrying at least half a dozen people.

It is unclear why the collision occurred, but has been reported that at least half a dozen people were on the smaller boat at the time.

The boat suffered major damage at the stern but no onboard was injured.

The superyacht is part of the Lürssen shipbuilding company and can hold 14 guests and 27 crew members.

Features include a large helipad, beauty salon and bathtubs carved out of solid limestone.

There is also a state-of-the-art gym, jacuzzi and countless lounge and relaxation areas, both in- and outdoors.

The Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the incident.

In June two boats were involved in a devastating crash and a sailor was thrown overboard during a yacht race.

A man was flung from a boat as competitors battled rough seas during the Round the Island Race in the Isle of Wight today.

He then desperately clung onto his life jacket before being rescued.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) rushed to his aid to pull him from the water despite the extreme conditions.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

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Ainslie aims to build on British speed gains in America's Cup quest

LONDON - Ben Ainslie said his British team are focused on eking further improvements out of themselves and their AC75 boat as they enter the next phase of their America's Cup campaign in Barcelona.

After what Ainslie called some race "rustiness", the British clicked during the challenger round-robins which ended on Monday and as top crew get to choose their semi-final opponent.

"We've found some really, really big gains, and have some great momentum in the team now, and we've seen that with the performances in the last week or so," Ainslie told Reuters on a video call from his team's Mediterranean base on Tuesday.

The 47-year-old said they had addressed "some set up issues around the boat", but was reticent about details as they work out how to clinch the Louis Vuitton Cup and with it the right to challenge America's Cup defenders New Zealand.

"I have to be careful I'm not giving too much away here, but you can see that our manoeuvres are getting better and just the nuances of things like the tactical app that we use to help us get off the start and get around the race course," he said.

Ainslie praised the input of his coaches and the shore team "working 24/7" to keep Britannia reliable and race ready.

Also crucial, Ainslie said, are the team's partners at Mercedes, whose Formula One designers and analysts are "trawling through the data and trying to figure out how we can set the boat up better, how we can sail the boat better".

With Britannia now undergoing "a couple of little tweaks", Ainslie aims to be back out on the water on Thursday and Friday "searching for performance gains" ahead of the start of the challenger semi-finals, which begin on Saturday.

As to who Britain will pick, Ainslie said the decision would be taken on Friday and be based on the weather forecast and factors such as past performance and rate of development.

"We will make a pragmatic decision on the day," Ainslie said, admitting that while he probably had a gut feeling who he would be facing, it was "too early to say for sure".

Whether it is Italy, who Britain beat in a sail-off for top spot, Switzerland or the United States, will be a team decision.

"We try and make these important decisions as a team. We involve the right people and try to make collective decisions. Ultimately, if we can't make a decision then I'll have to make the decision but it doesn't happen too often," Ainslie joked.

Whoever they face, the most successful Olympic sailor is relishing his quest to win the 'Auld Mug' for Britain for the first time since it began in 1851.

"It's a real privilege to get to helm these boats, to be with the team out in the water. It's an amazing challenge to compete for the America's Cup. It's hard work, but it's incredibly rewarding," Ainslie added. REUTERS

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