Drascombe Coaster Information, Review, Specs

The Drascombe Coaster's story began in 1979, succeeding the Drascombe Cruiser Longboat as the cabin version of the Drascombe Longboat hull. Designed by John Watkinson, the Coaster was conceived with the specific goal of appealing to private buyers seeking shelter and enhanced comfort, distinguishing it from the more open Longboat. Watkinson's overarching design philosophy for the Drascombe range, which influenced the Coaster, prioritized family confidence and safety, requiring boats to be easily trailable, possess first-rate seakeeping qualities, function well under power, and remain engaging for experienced sailors. His inspiration stemmed from the robust working boats of England's North-East coast, a heritage reflected in the Coaster's sturdy design.

Honnor Marine Ltd., the primary builder of Drascombe boats, played a pivotal role in bringing Watkinson's designs to life. The company, established in 1956, built a legacy on producing traditional-style boats known for exceptional stability and ease of handling. During the Coaster's production era, Honnor Marine blended the durability of GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) for hulls and decks with classic wooden trims, ensuring a blend of robust construction and traditional aesthetics. Over 300 Drascombe Coasters have been built, a testament to its enduring appeal. While no significant "Mk" variations are commonly cited, the Coaster itself was an improved specification over its predecessor, notably in its cockpit and cabin layouts, and featured a slightly reduced rig compared to the Longboat to accommodate the added cabin.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Drascombe Coaster, with an overall length of 21.75 feet and a displacement of 1,058 pounds, is designed for safe and forgiving sailing rather than high-performance racing. She is noted for her inherent stability, providing a comforting sensation upon stepping aboard. Her yawl rig, featuring loose-footed sails, offers significant versatility, allowing for various sail configurations to suit conditions ranging from light breezes to strong winds, feeling safe even up to Force 5. Owners often find she performs well off the wind and can be effectively sailed on just the jib and mizzen, which is a testament to the rig's adaptability.

However, due to her traditional design, flat plate rudder, and centerboard, the Coaster is generally not lauded for her close-winded performance, preferring to be sailed "fast and free rather than pinch" into the wind. The boat's safety relies primarily on its form stability rather than significant ballast, and while she is a stiff sailor, she is not designed to self-right from a knockdown. A key attribute of the Coaster is her shallow draft (ranging from 0.98 ft with the centerboard up to 3.84 ft with it down), coupled with a pivoting centerboard and rudder, enabling her to explore very shallow waters, be sailed into drying anchorages, or easily beached. This beaching capability is a major draw, although owners note the rudder must be fully raised to avoid jamming. For auxiliary power, a 4-8 horsepower outboard engine, often fitted in a dedicated well, is recommended, and the boat can also be rowed effectively. The mast's design allows for relatively quick lowering, often in about 10 minutes, which is advantageous for trailering or navigating under low bridges. The large, deep cockpit provides ample space, though it is not self-draining, a point some owners note.

Accommodations and Layout

As the cabin version of the Longboat, the Drascombe Coaster offers a compact yet functional interior designed for short cruises and overnight stays. The forward cuddy provides shelter and typically features two full-length berths, comfortably accommodating two adults. With the addition of an optional sprayhood and cockpit tent, the boat can extend its sleeping capacity to four or five people, making it suitable for family camping afloat.

Despite its modest size, the Coaster integrates clever storage solutions, with shaped lockers accessible from within the cuddy and dedicated compartments on either side of the central centerboard trunk. A small, sliding drawer often serves as a galley, sometimes equipped with a gimbaled stove, allowing for meal preparation out of the elements. While maximum headroom details are not widely specified, the cabin is generally described as "snug but adequate," prioritizing practical utility over standing room. The overall finish reflects the Drascombe tradition, blending fiberglass construction with classic wooden trims, brass fittings, and wooden masts, contributing to its appealing, traditional aesthetic.

Owner's Perspectives

Drascombe Coaster owners consistently praise the boat for its solid construction, inherent seaworthiness, and comfortable motion, particularly in coastal waters. Many appreciate its ease of handling, making it an excellent choice for learning to sail and for family outings. The ability to launch and recover the boat single-handedly, thanks to its design and often paired with a swinging trailer, is a frequently lauded benefit, offering flexibility for exploring various sailing grounds without the need for a permanent mooring. Owners enjoy the low maintenance aspect of the GRP hull, allowing more time for sailing rather than upkeep, a common sentiment in the Drascombe community.

However, common discussions among owners also highlight certain characteristics. The Coaster's loose-footed yawl rig and flat foils (rudder and centerboard) mean it is not particularly efficient when sailing directly into the wind, a trade-off for its versatility and shallow draft capabilities. Some owners of older models have noted concerns about the quality of the fiberglass work in certain areas from the mid-1970s, though Honnor Marine's later commitment to modern CE standards addressed safety aspects like buoyancy. The non-self-draining cockpit is another point frequently mentioned, requiring manual bailing if significant water enters. Despite these minor criticisms, the Drascombe Coaster fosters a strong and active owner community, united by their affection for this charming and capable "little yacht that can."