Clipper Marine 1/4 Ton Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Clipper Marine 1/4 Ton was introduced in 1974, a product of Clipper Marine's relatively brief but impactful operational history, which spanned from 1971 to 1976. The company, based in Santa Ana, California, collaborated exclusively with William Crealock, a designer celebrated for his expertise in offshore sailing yachts. Crealock's designs for Clipper Marine often prioritized trailerability and practical engineering, leveraging fiberglass construction for mass production and durability.

For the 1/4 Ton model, Crealock applied his knowledge to meet the specific demands of the International Offshore Rule. The IOR was a handicapping system that defined various "ton" classes, and the 1/4 Ton class was known for producing exciting, often lightweight, and performance-oriented designs. While many of Clipper Marine's boats featured swing keels for trailerability, the 1/4 Ton model, with its fin keel and transom-hung rudder, was clearly optimized for racing performance within its class. Its designation as the "Clipper 4" or "CM/4" suggests it was part of the builder's numbered series, indicating its place within their broader product line.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 23.58 feet and a waterline length of 18.5 feet, the Clipper Marine 1/4 Ton was designed to be a spirited performer. Given its classification as a 1/4 Ton racer, it was engineered for agility and speed in competitive settings. Boats designed under the IOR 1/4 Ton rule were typically light and high-performing for their class. The Clipper Marine 1/4 Ton boasts a generous sail plan, which contributes to excellent performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. These vessels were generally conceived to excel in light to moderate wind conditions, prioritizing speed and responsiveness. Owners typically describe these smaller IOR boats as lively and engaging to sail, well-suited for racing or fast day cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

As a sailboat primarily designed for the competitive IOR 1/4 Ton racing circuit, the Clipper Marine 1/4 Ton offers accommodations that are utilitarian and geared towards function rather than extensive comfort. While specific interior layouts can vary, these boats typically feature a compact cabin suitable for overnighting or taking shelter during races. Given its racing pedigree and overall length, headroom is limited, and the interior generally provides basic sleeping berths, perhaps a small galley area, and a marine head, consistent with other boats in its class. Construction quality of Clipper Marine boats, including the hull and deck, often involved a substantial thickness of fiberglass over marine-grade woods, suggesting robust build for its era. Interior finishes would have been straightforward, prioritizing durability and ease of maintenance over luxurious appointments, reflecting its racing purpose.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Clipper Marine sailboats often praise the sturdy construction and overall build quality of these fiberglass vessels. While specific feedback directly related to the 1/4 Ton model is less common due to its niche racing focus, the general consensus among Clipper Marine owners highlights the durability of their hulls and decks, which were typically built with significant fiberglass layups. Many owners appreciate the straightforward design and ease of maintenance inherent in these boats. As with many older vessels, common maintenance considerations might include re-bedding original deck fittings to address potential leaks over time. Overall, the Clipper Marine 1/4 Ton, like its cruising siblings, is often seen as a robust and accessible sailboat that continues to offer enjoyable sailing experiences decades after its production.