Herreshoff 38 Cat Ketch Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Herreshoff 38 Cat Ketch is rooted in the vision of John Newton, founder of the Cat Ketch Corporation, who aimed to produce simple yet rewarding cruising auxiliaries. Collaborating with Halsey Herreshoff, a third-generation naval architect from a distinguished family, the company established a clear identity around the cat-ketch rig. Production of the Herreshoff 38, alongside other models like the H-31 and H-45, began in 1982, with the hull primarily constructed from fiberglass, reflecting modern boatbuilding techniques of the time. The builder's ethos, as described in the company's history, emphasized open interior layouts and an overall elegant simplicity, which extended to the Herreshoff 38. While the Cat Ketch Corporation's main production facility was in Honduras, the company eventually moved its molds to Texas before ceasing operations, making these vessels part of a relatively brief but impactful production run through the 1980s.

Halsey Herreshoff's designs, including the 38 Cat Ketch, aimed to change perceptions about unstayed rigs, making them accessible and appealing for cruising sailors. The cat-ketch configuration, known for its smaller, more manageable sails, contributes to easier handling compared to more conventional rigs, a key aspect of the Herreshoff 38's design appeal.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Herreshoff 38 Cat Ketch is designed for a balance of performance and stability, offering a pleasant sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.12, she demonstrates a moderate to performance-oriented design, suggesting good light-air performance while still being manageable in stronger winds.

Her stability is further underscored by a Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 42.05%, indicating a stiff and stable boat capable of standing up to a good breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. This high ballast ratio also contributes to its good righting capability. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 148.56 places the Herreshoff 38 in the light to moderate displacement category for its length, implying a relatively nimble and potentially swift vessel for a cruising boat of its size.

Owners and reviewers often note the inherent ease of handling associated with the cat-ketch rig, which typically requires fewer winches and simplifies sail management. This configuration allows for good comfort and stability, particularly when sailing downwind or on a broad reach. The Herreshoff 38, with its fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, is generally regarded as a responsive and well-balanced boat to sail.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Herreshoff 38 Cat Ketch prioritizes a simple and open design, it offers comfortable accommodations for cruising. The interior boasts a maximum headroom of 6.33 feet, providing ample standing room for most individuals.

Consistent with the builder's design philosophy, the interior layout typically features an open saloon, aiming for a spacious and airy feel. Grounded on the design principles of the Cat Ketch Corporation's other models, one can expect a practical arrangement with a V-berth forward, a functional galley, and a dedicated head compartment. The generous beam of 11.5 feet allows for comfortable living spaces below deck. Construction generally involves fiberglass for the hull, which minimizes maintenance, while the interior often features superior woodwork, contributing to an elegant finish. The boat is equipped with a significant water capacity of 100 gallons, supporting extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Herreshoff 38 Cat Ketch for its distinctive and innovative rig, which contributes significantly to its ease of handling and comfortable sailing experience. Many appreciate the simplicity of the unstayed cat-ketch rig, which minimizes lines and makes for straightforward sail setup and dousing. The solid fiberglass hull construction is often highlighted as a strength, contributing to the boat's durability and robust feel on the water.

The comfortable motion in a seaway and the overall stability are frequently cited positive attributes, making the Herreshoff 38 a favored choice for those undertaking coastal or offshore cruising. The thoughtful touches and generally superior woodwork in the interior are also points of appreciation. While generally lauded for its cruising capabilities, some owners note that, like many cat-ketch designs, the Herreshoff 38 might not be as "weatherly" (perform well to windward) in all conditions compared to a traditionally rigged sloop or cutter. However, for its intended purpose as a comfortable and easy-to-manage cruiser, the Herreshoff 38 Cat Ketch continues to be a sought-after vessel among enthusiasts.