Designed by Edwin A. Boardman and built by the renowned George Lawley & Sons shipyard, this classic gaff-rigged sloop represents early 20th-century yacht design at its finest. Between 1911 and 1932, fifty of these elegant wooden boats were constructed, creating a distinctive one-design fleet for the prestigious Eastern Yacht Club.
At 27.5 feet overall with a 17-foot waterline, the boat strikes an appealing balance between manageable size and seaworthy capability. The traditional gaff-head rig with 368 square feet of sail area provides excellent light air performance, while the fin keel configuration offers better windward ability than many period designs. The substantial 3,100-pound displacement and moderate beam of 7.25 feet contribute to a stable, comfortable motion at sea.
This design excels in coastal cruising and day sailing, with its 16.98 comfort ratio indicating good motion comfort for extended outings. The 1.99 capsize screening value suggests reasonable stability for near-shore sailing. Wood planked construction demands traditional maintenance skills but rewards owners with classic yacht character and craftsmanship. These boats represent an excellent entry into traditional sailing for those appreciating historical design and willing to embrace wooden boat stewardship.
SA/Displacement
Sail Area to Displacement ratio measures how much sail power a boat has relative to its weight. Higher values mean more performance and speed.
Under 14 — Heavy cruiser, slow14–18 — Cruising sailboat18–22 — Cruiser/racerOver 22 — Performance racer
27.77
Displacement/Length
Displacement to Length ratio measures how heavy a boat is relative to its waterline length. Lower values mean a lighter, faster boat.
Under 100 — Ultralight racer100–200 — Light cruiser/racer200–300 — Moderate cruiser300–400 — Heavy cruiserOver 400 — Very heavy
281.69
Comfort Ratio
Ted Brewer's Comfort Ratio predicts how comfortable a boat will feel in offshore conditions. Higher values mean a steadier, more comfortable motion in a seaway.
Under 20 — Uncomfortably rough20–30 — Acceptable coastal30–40 — Good offshore comfortOver 40 — Very comfortable offshore
16.98
Capsize Screening Formula
The USHS Capsize Screening Formula estimates offshore capsize risk. Lower is safer — values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing.
Under 2.0 — Safe for offshore2.0–2.2 — Borderline offshoreOver 2.2 — Coastal use recommended
1.99
Hull Speed
Hull Speed is the theoretical maximum speed of a displacement hull, calculated from waterline length. Most cruising sailboats reach this speed in moderate conditions.
5.52 kn
Pounds/Inch Immersion
Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline.
440.39 pounds/inch
How It Compares
vs. Controversy 27, Honey Bee 28, Normandy, Northeast Harbor A Class, S Class Herreshoff