Clipper 4 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Clipper 4 aligns with Clipper Marine's operational period, which spanned from 1971 to 1976. During this brief but impactful era, the company leveraged fiberglass construction to mass-produce durable, low-maintenance hulls. William Crealock, the sole designer for Clipper Marine, brought his extensive knowledge of offshore sailing yachts to this niche, focusing on balancing performance with practicality. While many of Clipper Marine's designs prioritized trailerability, the Clipper 4 was specifically conceived to fit the IOR Quarter-Ton racing rule. This designation meant it was built to a specific handicap rule, influencing its dimensions and sail plan to ensure competitive performance against other boats in its class, typically requiring a crew of three. The boat's construction emphasized solid fiberglass for the hull and deck, often with at least half an inch of glass over marine-grade woods, contributing to a reputation for robust build quality.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Clipper 4’s design as an IOR 1/4 Ton racer suggests an emphasis on spirited performance. With a total calculated sail area of 219.32 square feet and a displacement of 2,900 pounds, its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) stands at approximately 17.34. This ratio indicates a sailboat with good light-air performance, capable of moving efficiently in lighter breezes. The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 37.24% suggests a moderate level of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent amount of wind. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 204 positions her as a moderate displacement boat for her length, striking a balance between light, performance-oriented designs and heavier, more traditional cruisers. While specific anecdotal descriptions of the Clipper 4's handling in various sea states are not widely detailed, its design intent as a quarter-ton racer implies a responsive and capable sailing experience, particularly for its size.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout of the Clipper 4 is limited in available documentation. The primary focus of its design was performance as an IOR Quarter-Ton racer and general trailerability. As such, the interior would likely feature a compact and utilitarian layout, typical for a sailboat of its size and era, with basic provisions for overnighting or short cruising. Details on maximum headroom, galley facilities, or berth configurations are not consistently available through common resources.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Clipper Marine sailboats from the 1970s often engage in online forums to share experiences and discuss modifications. A frequently noted characteristic of fiberglass boats from this period, including some Clipper Marine models, is the potential for hull blister problems. However, many owners generally praise the solid construction of these vessels, particularly highlighting the robust fiberglass hull and deck, which were often built with substantial glass thickness over marine-grade wood. This robust build quality has contributed to the longevity of many Clipper Marine boats, including the Clipper 4, which continue to be enjoyed by sailing enthusiasts.