Graves Constellation Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Graves Constellation is deeply intertwined with the legacy of Graves Yacht Yard, a facility founded in the late 19th century that became a cornerstone of Marblehead's boatbuilding industry. Known for its commitment to quality and traditional wooden boat construction and maintenance, Graves Yacht Yard brought the Constellation to life during an era that saw the increasing adoption of fiberglass in yacht building. While the yard excelled in wood, the Constellation embraced a fiberglass and wood composite hull and deck, a practical choice that offered durability while retaining a classic aesthetic.

The design itself is credited to E. Selman Graves, with some notable collaboration or influence from L. Francis and Sidney Herreshoff on the hull design for individual boats like "Vela," indicating a strong lineage to classic yacht design principles. This collaboration aimed to produce a boat with brilliant sailing characteristics, often described by owners as a "poor man's Herreshoff S boat," suggesting a vessel that punches above its weight in terms of performance and grace.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Graves Constellation's design metrics point to a sailboat capable of engaging performance and a comfortable motion. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.65, she possesses ample sail power relative to her weight, suggesting lively performance, particularly in lighter air. The high Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 45.8% indicates a stiff and stable boat, well-equipped to stand up to a breeze and provide a secure feel on the water. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 322.5 marks her as a moderately heavy displacement vessel for her length overall of nearly 30 feet, contributing to a comfortable ride in choppy conditions, typical of traditional cruisers.

Owners and reviewers frequently praise the Constellation's sailing prowess, describing her as a "sweet-sailing sloop" that "sails brilliantly." Anecdotal evidence from owners engaging in local "beercan racing" suggests she is more than capable of holding her own, even "beating the snot out of the local PHRF fleet," a testament to her balanced design and responsive handling. Her fin keel hull type further contributes to her agility and upwind performance.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its length of just under 30 feet, the Graves Constellation offers a functional, albeit compact, interior designed primarily for coastal cruising and day sailing with the capacity for overnight stays. Owners note that the interior allows for "overnight in a pinch" for a couple, implying basic amenities suitable for short excursions. While specific detailed layouts are not widely documented, classic sailboats of this size typically feature a V-berth forward, a small salon area, and often a basic galley and enclosed head, optimizing space for comfort without sacrificing sailing performance. The construction, consistent with Graves Yacht Yard's ethos, would have emphasized durable materials and quality joinery, though many vessels of this vintage may have undergone various refits and restorations over time.

Owner's Perspectives

The Graves Constellation has cultivated a devoted following, with many owners deeply invested in maintaining and restoring these classic vessels. The numerous restoration projects highlighted in sailing media underscore the enduring appeal and perceived value of these boats. Owners consistently praise the Constellation for its solid construction and excellent sailing characteristics, often referring to it as a true "classic." The enthusiasm extends to competitive sailing, with owners actively racing their Constellations and achieving notable success. While specific recurring maintenance issues are not widely reported as design flaws, like any vintage vessel, they require ongoing care, particularly given their composite hull and deck construction. The dedication of Constellation owners speaks volumes about the rewarding experience of sailing these distinctive and capable sloops.