Herreshoff 27 Cat Ketch Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Herreshoff 27 Cat Ketch lies in the vision of naval architect Halsey Herreshoff, a scion of the distinguished Herreshoff family. His designs for the Cat Ketch Corporation, which operated from approximately 1982 to 1986, were pivotal in popularizing the cat-ketch rig for cruising sailors. The H-27 itself began production in 1982. Herreshoff's design philosophy emphasized simplicity in rigging, aiming for vessels that were easy to manage with fewer winches, a characteristic that defines the unstayed cat-ketch rig of the H-27. The Cat Ketch Corporation, founded by John Newton, focused on producing fiberglass monohulls, though early models sometimes incorporated laminated wooden spars. Their ethos was to create unique cruising auxiliaries known for their "good looks, easy sailing, open accommodation, thoughtful touches, elegant simplicity, generally superior woodwork, and fast passages." While the Herreshoff 31 was the most prominent model, the H-27 was an integral part of their offerings, maintaining the consistent design and construction standards of the builder.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a reported sail area of 352 square feet and a displacement of 3,850 pounds, the Herreshoff 27 Cat Ketch boasts a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 22.48. This relatively high ratio suggests that the H-27 is a lively performer, particularly adept at sailing in lighter air conditions. The boat's displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 97.79 indicates a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser compared to heavier, more traditional designs.

A standout feature contributing to the H-27's stability is its substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 51.9%, with 2,000 pounds of lead ballast in a fin keel. This high percentage signifies a stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up well to a breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The unstayed cat-ketch rig is lauded for its ease of handling; reefing is straightforward, and the center of effort remains largely consistent throughout the process. Owners and reviewers generally describe these cat-ketch designs as sailing "like a dream," with a balanced helm and responsive handling. While praised for their cruising capabilities and fast passages, some have noted that Herreshoff cat-ketches might not be particularly "weatherly" in all conditions, though their overall ease of sailing is a significant advantage.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Herreshoff 27 Cat Ketch, consistent with the builder's design philosophy, emphasizes open space and functional simplicity. While specific detailed layouts for the 27-foot model are not widely documented, the broader Herreshoff cat-ketch line was known for its "open accommodation" and "thoughtful touches." For a vessel of its size, a typical arrangement would likely feature a relatively open salon/forecabin area, maximizing the sense of space. Accommodations would generally include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that could serve as berths, and a compact galley and head typically located aft. The builder's commitment to "generally superior woodwork" suggests a warm and inviting interior finish, utilizing quality materials for cabinetry and trim. Storage solutions would be integrated efficiently to make the most of the available space, crucial for a cruising boat of this length.