Goldeneye (Herreshoff) Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Herreshoff Goldeneye begins with the distinguished legacy of Nathanael Herreshoff, whose original lines from Design #1133 in 1928 laid the groundwork for this enduring model. Cape Cod Shipbuilding Co., a builder renowned for its dedication to traditional craftsmanship and pioneering fiberglass innovation, began producing the Goldeneye in 1959. This era marked a significant period for Cape Cod Shipbuilding, which had acquired the exclusive rights to build Herreshoff designs 30 feet and under in 1947 and was at the forefront of fiberglass boat construction, having introduced fiberglass vessels as early as 1947.

The Goldeneye itself is described as an improved version of the popular Herreshoff Bull's Eye, featuring a small cabin and a self-bailing cockpit, making it more versatile for short cruises. The rig, updated by Sidney Herreshoff, is a masthead sloop, reflecting a design philosophy focused on combining classic aesthetics with practical sailing characteristics. Cape Cod Shipbuilding's ethos during this period, and throughout its history, emphasized first-rate construction and durability, ensuring that boats like the Goldeneye were built to last for generations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite her modest length overall of just over 18 feet, the Herreshoff Goldeneye offers a stable and enjoyable sailing experience, particularly well-suited for coastal cruising and gunkholing. With a long keel and a displacement of 2,500 lbs, she exhibits a comfortable motion in various sea states and a predictable nature. Her generous ballast of 1,320 lbs contributes to her stability, allowing her to stand up to a breeze with confidence. The boat is noted for sharing many of the desirable sailing characteristics of the Bull's Eye, but with a longer waterline, which enhances her performance. The design allows for versatility, capable of being sailed effectively even with a reef in the main and a storm jib in more challenging conditions. Her hull speed is estimated at 5.33 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The Herreshoff Goldeneye's interior, while compact, is designed to enhance her capabilities as a small cruiser. She features a small cabin and a self-bailing cockpit, offering an upgrade over pure daysailers. This layout makes her suitable for short overnight cruising for two people, providing a basic but functional space. While specific interior details on finish quality or materials are limited in the provided information, Cape Cod Shipbuilding's reputation for quality suggests a well-finished interior, likely featuring durable materials consistent with the era's small fiberglass cruisers.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Herreshoff Goldeneye frequently praise her solid construction and classic good looks, attributes deeply rooted in Cape Cod Shipbuilding's heritage. The robust build quality ensures longevity, a common hallmark of Cape Cod boats, which are often passed down through generations. Owners appreciate her stability and ease of handling, making her a forgiving vessel for a range of sailing abilities. The ability for short overnight stays is often highlighted as a significant advantage for a boat of this size. While specific common issues are not widely reported, general maintenance for boats of her age might include attention to original fittings and systems, as is typical for well-loved classic sailboats.