Bristol 19 (Sailstar Corinthian 19) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Bristol 19 began its life as the Sailstar Corinthian 19, with production commencing in 1966. Designed by the highly respected Carl Alberg, who was known for his work on traditional and capable cruising yachts, the Corinthian 19 was considered the "baby" of his design series. Sailstar Boats initially built the vessel, but its trajectory changed when Bristol Yachts, founded by Clint Pearson, purchased Sailstar's assets. From 1966 until the end of its production run in 1980, approximately 700 units of this model were built under both the Sailstar and Bristol names.

Bristol Yachts, established in the mid-1960s, quickly became a significant player in the burgeoning fiberglass boat industry, known for its deep-rooted commitment to quality and durability. The company embraced fiberglass as a revolutionary material, building vessels often described as "overbuilt" due to their solid and seaworthy construction. This ethos carried over to the Bristol 19, ensuring a robust hull and deck construction from solid fiberglass. While the standard model featured a fixed long keel with a maximum draft of 2.75 feet, Sailstar also offered a keel version, indicating some variations during its production history.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its diminutive size, the Bristol 19 is widely appreciated for its sailing characteristics. Owners frequently praise it as a "great little sailer" that demonstrates a surprising capability on the water. Its generous sail plan contributes to excellent light-air performance, allowing it to move well even in gentler breezes.

The design is also noted for its stability and ability to handle challenging conditions. Described as a heavy sailboat for its size, the Bristol 19 is recognized for being very stable and stiff, possessing good righting capability. Owners have consistently reported that the boat holds up well in stiff winds and handles rough weather effectively, instilling confidence in its seaworthiness. While some might consider it slightly underpowered due to its heavier displacement, this characteristic contributes to its stable and predictable motion, making it a comfortable boat for its class.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its length overall of just over 19.5 feet and a beam of 6.5 feet, the Bristol 19 offers basic but functional accommodations typical of a small pocket cruiser. While specific detailed interior layouts are not extensively documented in widely available public resources, the design implies a straightforward arrangement focused on maximizing usable space for overnighting and day-sailing comfort.

The interior would typically feature a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations. The main cabin area would likely offer modest seating and possibly a small space for basic galley functions, such as a cooler and a manual pump sink. Headroom, as is common in boats of this size, would be limited, generally requiring occupants to stoop or sit. Construction materials would typically follow the durable fiberglass approach of Bristol Yachts, often complemented by wood trim for a more traditional aesthetic, offering a simple yet hardy finish that stands up to the marine environment. Storage would be practical, suitable for essential cruising gear and personal effects, often located under berths and in small lockers.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Bristol 19 (or Sailstar Corinthian 19) express considerable satisfaction with their vessels, often highlighting their robust construction and sailing prowess. Many appreciate its suitability for dry sailing, noting it is relatively easy to launch from a trailer. The boat's ability to handle rough weather and stiff winds is a recurring commendation, with owners expressing confidence in its hull design and seaworthiness.

While specific "common problems" are not widely reported, the age of these vessels means that general maintenance and refurbishment are often part of the ownership experience, as evidenced by owners taking on projects to recondition boats that were in "rough shape". The enduring appeal of the Bristol 19 is perhaps best summarized by owners who plan to keep it as their "last boat," a testament to its reliability, solid build, and enjoyable sailing experience. The presence of "solid deck and hull" is also a point of appreciation among owners.