Squall Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Boston Whaler Squall was in production from 1965 to 1985, emerging during a period when Boston Whaler, founded by Richard T. "Dick" Fisher in 1958, was solidifying its reputation for revolutionary foam-filled fiberglass hull construction. While Boston Whaler is predominantly known for its powerboats, the Squall, alongside the later Harpoon line, represented the company's venture into the sailboat market, applying their unique Unibond™ construction process to a sailing design. This innovative approach, where foam fills the space between an inner and outer fiberglass hull, became a hallmark of the brand, significantly enhancing safety and durability.

The Squall's design features a sailboat-like round bottom, contributing to its performance under sail. Reflecting Boston Whaler's adaptability, the Squall was originally offered with various rig options, including the standard cat rig, as well as alternative sliding gunter and lateen rigs, providing owners with flexibility in sailing preference.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a compact dinghy with a length overall of just over nine feet and a light displacement of 120 pounds, the Boston Whaler Squall is recognized for its impressive versatility under different propulsion methods. Owners frequently praise its capability under sail, describing it as "incredible" and noting its excellent tracking whether sailing, rowing, or powered by a small outboard. Its performance is well-suited for calm waters and light recreational use, though some owners have noted it can feel "tipsy" both with and without its lightweight aluminum centerboard.

The Squall is designed for straightforward handling, making it accessible for novice sailors while offering enjoyable characteristics for more experienced users. Its primary purpose as a day sailer, tender, and utility boat means its performance is geared towards ease of use and reliability rather than high-speed racing.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size at 9.33 feet in length and 4.42 feet in beam, the Boston Whaler Squall is an open dinghy without traditional interior accommodations. There is no enclosed cabin, and thus no standing headroom, galley, or dedicated berths in the conventional sense. Instead, the layout focuses on maximizing open space for its intended use as a versatile utility boat.

The design incorporates seating suitable for day use, typically consisting of thwarts across the beam, providing functional space for sailing, rowing, or operating a small outboard motor. The hull's fiberglass construction is robust, aligning with Boston Whaler's reputation for durable materials and practical utility. As a self-bailing dinghy, the Squall is designed to shed water, enhancing its usability and reducing maintenance for owners.

Owner's Perspectives

The Boston Whaler Squall maintains a dedicated following among its owners, largely due to its versatility and the enduring build quality synonymous with the Boston Whaler brand. Owners consistently commend the Squall for its multi-faceted utility, highlighting its proficiency as a sailboat, a stable rowing boat, and its ability to handle a small outboard engine effectively. Many value it as an excellent tender for larger yachts, appreciating its robust construction and reliability.

However, some common points of discussion among owners include the centerboard's tendency not to stay fully retracted in some instances. While generally lauded for its durability, owners sometimes note that if the foam-filled hull develops a small hole and is left moored, it can present a significant problem, underscoring the importance of proper maintenance. Despite these minor considerations, the collective sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with the Squall frequently described as a "great little boat" that offers enduring enjoyment and utility.