Great Lakes 21 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Great Lakes 21 began its production in 1938, a product of Charles Hodgdon's design acumen. Hodgdon, hailing from a prominent shipbuilding family, contributed to a legacy of quality yacht construction. His design for the Great Lakes 21 likely aimed to create a responsive and fast boat within the constraints of its size, a common goal for designers of light displacement racers of the era.

While Hodgdon Bros. was an original builder, Douglass & McLeod also became associated with its construction. Douglass & McLeod, co-founded in 1951 by Ray McLeod and the renowned designer Gordon "Sandy" Douglass, built a reputation for high-quality, performance-oriented sailboats, particularly their popular one-design classes like the Thistle and Highlander. Their involvement in the Great Lakes 21's production, which started well before Douglass & McLeod's formal establishment, suggests a continuation or participation in the construction of Hodgdon's successful design, leveraging their expertise in fiberglass and wood composite construction, which characterized the boat's hull and deck materials.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a displacement of just 1,800 pounds for its 21-foot length and an 18.33-foot waterline, the Great Lakes 21 is categorized as an "ultra light racer." This designation implies a vessel designed for lively performance, particularly in lighter air conditions, where its low displacement would allow it to accelerate quickly and plane readily. Equipped with a fin keel and a fractional sloop rig, the boat would offer a good balance of maneuverability and upwind ability. Its relatively deep maximum draft of 3.42 feet for its size would contribute to its stability and ability to hold its course, especially when heeled. The Great Lakes 21's design suggests a boat that is responsive to the helm and offers an engaging sailing experience, appealing to those who prioritize performance and agile handling over heavy-weather cruising capabilities.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its design as a light displacement racer from the late 1930s and its compact 21-foot length, the Great Lakes 21 would offer very basic accommodations primarily focused on shelter rather than extended living. The interior would likely consist of a simple cabin, providing minimal headroom and possibly a small V-berth forward, suitable for stowing gear or offering rudimentary overnight shelter. Storage might be limited to bins or shelves beneath the bunks. The primary purpose of this vessel was spirited sailing, meaning any interior comforts would be secondary to its performance characteristics. The use of fiberglass and wood composite for both the hull and deck suggests a robust yet weight-conscious construction method, characteristic of boats designed for a blend of durability and speed.