Family cruiserr

The L/B of this design is 3.05. This indicates a very beamy boat for its LOA. In a production boat with LOA fixed by marketing considerations, expanding beam is a way to gain accommodations. The D/L of this boat is 178, and you have a choice of either 5-foot, 7-inch or 4-foot, 3-inch draft.

There are two interiors available. The broad beam aft allows for a layout with two double quarter berths. They look to be more than adequate and have plenty of toe space. I can't say the same for the forward double, which ends in a point. The other layout offers one huge double quarter berth and a larger head compartment. The main cabin shows an elliptical dinette to starboard and a galley to port. There is not much counter space in this galley, but it will be a nice place to cook when the boat's at rest. The dinette has a small centerline seat, and I think you might be able to seat five at this dinette. The curved dinette shape is sexy, but I have this theory that people seek corners when they lounge. Square dinettes are less fashionable but more functional. The joinerwork details in this interior look beautiful. It's all teak veneer and solid teak trim finished with a glowing satin varnish.

The deck shows some interesting design details. The narrow side decks are kept clear by mounting the genoa track on the edge of the cabintrunk. This provides for better sheeting angels than you would get with the track on the deck, puts the primary winches alongside the companionway and frees up the cockpit coamings. There is a recessed anchor well in the foredeck. The backstay is split so it won't interfere with access to the swim step.

This appears to be a short rig. That's just fine. It may be exciting to chase SA/Ds into the mid-20s, but it often results in a rig that require a lot of attention. Most cruisers would be happier with SA/Ds around 18. You don't get bragging rights at the dock, but you'll cruise easier. The SA/D for this design is 16.02, making this an ideal rig for a charter boat in a breezy area. This rig shows swept spreaders in addition to forward lowers. The forward placement of the mast will help offset the effect of the wide stern on the feel of the helm when the boat heels.

This month marks my last month working with the very patient Heather Freckmann as my editor. Heather has been fun to work with, and her diligence tracking down information has made my job as reviewer easier.