Dickerson 41 Information, Review, Specs

With a length overall of 41 feet, a waterline length of 31.5 feet, and a displacement of 24,500 pounds, the Dickerson 41 is a substantial yacht built to handle a variety of conditions. Its design reflects a purposeful approach to offshore sailing, prioritizing stability and seaworthiness.

The Dickerson 41 was produced by Dickerson Boatbuilders from 1973 to 1983, with 19 examples completed during its production run. Naval architect Ernest Tucker was responsible for its design. This era for Dickerson Boatbuilders, under Thomas Lucke's ownership, saw a continuation of their commitment to "rugged and well-built boats of real value," even as they began transitioning from traditional wood to fiberglass construction for their hulls. Notably, the builder's article mentions that Lucke had commissioned Tucker to re-engineer the Dickerson 35 to a round-bilge hull for enhanced long-distance cruising capabilities, suggesting a similar philosophy likely applied to the Dickerson 41. The robust nature of the Dickerson 41 was famously underscored by a vessel of this model completing a four-year circumnavigation between 1975 and 1979, a feat that deeply impressed Ted Reed, who would later acquire the company.

While the fundamental design by Ernest Tucker remained consistent, the Dickerson 41 was offered with a number of optional cabin layouts, allowing owners some degree of customization to suit their cruising needs. The hull material for the Dickerson 41 was solid fiberglass, providing durability and minimizing maintenance compared to earlier wooden boats.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dickerson 41, with its long keel hull type, is engineered for stable and comfortable offshore passage making rather than spirited racing performance. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.94 suggests it is a moderately powered vessel, capable of respectable performance in a range of wind conditions, though it may not excel in very light airs. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 34.7% indicates a moderate level of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to its rig in a breeze and provide a steady platform.

The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at approximately 350, firmly places the Dickerson 41 in the heavy displacement category. This characteristic is a hallmark of traditional cruisers, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway and excellent directional stability, particularly beneficial on long offshore passages. However, this long keel design, while enhancing stability and tracking, generally results in less nimble maneuverability in tight quarters compared to boats with fin keels. Owners have consistently praised the Dickerson 41 as a solid and proven offshore cruising sailboat, highlighting its seamanlike design.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dickerson 41 is typically configured as a center cockpit design, which often allows for a more spacious aft cabin and better separation of living areas. A common interior arrangement features a double V-berth in the forward cabin. The main salon typically includes an L-shaped settee with a drop-down table, providing a comfortable dining and lounging area.

Reflecting the builder's commitment to creating value-driven cruisers, the Dickerson 41 generally features a traditional teak interior, offering a warm and classic ambiance suitable for extended periods aboard. With a maximum headroom of 6.5 feet, the interior feels open and accommodating for most individuals. The substantial water capacity of 100 gallons and a fuel capacity of 50 gallons (with later models sometimes featuring 100-gallon fuel tanks) underscore its design for prolonged cruising and self-sufficiency. While specific details on storage and ventilation require individual boat inspection, the general design for extended cruising implies adequate provisions for both.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dickerson 41 consistently praise its robust construction and well-thought-out design, affirming its reputation as a classic cruising yacht that has truly stood the test of time. The boat is frequently lauded for its solid build quality and seamanlike characteristics, making it a trusted vessel for those undertaking long-distance voyages.

While many aspects of the Dickerson 41 are highly regarded, a recurring maintenance issue noted by some owners involves leaking portholes, which may eventually require re-bedding or replacement to maintain watertight integrity. Despite such common issues typical of older vessels, the overall sentiment among owners is overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the inherent durability and the strong community that supports these enduring yachts.