Drascombe Longboat Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Drascombe Longboat can be traced back to 1970, when Honnor Marine Ltd., based in Totnes, Devon, began its production in Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP). The Longboat emerged as a "stretched" version of the highly successful Drascombe Lugger, designed to offer even greater space and versatility. A significant variation, the Drascombe Cruiser Longboat, was introduced in 1971, featuring a cuddy cabin to appeal more to private buyers seeking overnight capabilities. This Cruiser model remained in production until 1979, when it was succeeded by the Drascombe Coaster, with over 400 units built.

John Watkinson, the visionary behind the Drascombe range, designed these boats with a clear philosophy centered on safety, robustness, and fun. Honnor Marine upheld this ethos, crafting traditional-style boats that were easily managed and offered remarkable stability. The Longboat's construction features a distinctive lapstrake GRP hull, complemented by classic wooden trims of genuine teak and varnished pine spars, blending durability with a timeless aesthetic. Integral to the hull moldings are the centerboard and rudder trunks, and sufficient foam buoyancy is built into each vessel to ensure it remains afloat even when flooded.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Drascombe Longboat is widely praised for its stable and predictable sailing performance, making it a forgiving boat for both seasoned sailors and newcomers. Owners consistently describe it as a "superb boat" capable of handling brisk conditions, with some reports of comfortable sailing in winds up to Force 6. While noted for its robust nature and simple operation, some users suggest it might be "lacking in sail area for light winds," particularly compared to more performance-oriented designs.

The Longboat typically features a gunter yawl rig, a configuration that offers a flexible sail plan, allowing for easy reefing and handling. The open version traditionally uses loose-footed sails, contributing to an uncluttered cockpit and reducing the risk of head injury from a gybing boom. Conversely, the Cruiser Longboat variant was fitted with a boomed mainsail. The boat can be effectively sailed under its full rig for an exhilarating experience or under jib and mizzen for excellent control in stiffer breezes, which also leaves a spacious cockpit ideal for leisure activities.

Its heavy steel centerboard significantly contributes to its stability, though its flat plate design, along with the rudder, can somewhat limit its efficiency and windward ability compared to modern foils. The centerboard is retractable, allowing for shallow-water operation, but the rudder is not, which requires awareness in very shallow areas to avoid damage; some experienced sailors opt to lift the rudder and steer with an oar in extremely shallow conditions. The Longboat is also known for its ease of rigging and transport, with masts that can be quickly stepped by one person. Its design allows for simple self-steering by lashing the tiller, with minor course adjustments possible by shifting crew weight.

Accommodations and Layout

The Drascombe Longboat offers a surprisingly roomy interior for its size, particularly in its open dayboat configuration. With a length overall of 21.75 feet and a beam of 6.58 feet, she provides ample space, comfortably accommodating several people for day excursions. The open Longboat features a large, uncluttered cockpit, spacious enough for up to nine people for activities such as picnics or fishing. It also includes recessed fore and aft decks and side benches, along with ample, sometimes lockable, storage. A notable feature is the protected outboard motor well, with a slot in the transom allowing the propeller to be tilted clear of the water when under sail or in very shallow conditions.

For those seeking more than a dayboat, the Drascombe Cruiser Longboat introduced a cuddy cabin. This cabin offered a choice of interior arrangements, typically including two berths or a single berth combined with a galley bench and space for a marine or chemical toilet. The covered living space could be further extended by the addition of a cockpit tent, enhancing its suitability for overnight stays. While specific headroom details are limited in general reviews, the design prioritizes maximizing usable space within its traditional lines.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently commend the Drascombe Longboat for its robust construction, low maintenance requirements, and overall reliability. Its inherent stability and spacious layout make it a popular choice for teaching sailing and for use by groups, including those with disabilities. The boat is often praised for its "go-anywhere" capability and its forgiving nature, contributing to a strong sense of security on the water. The enduring popularity of Drascombe boats, including the Longboat, is reflected in their robust second-hand market and the active, supportive community of owners.

While largely positive, some owners have noted that the Longboat's sail area can feel a bit small in light winds, impacting upwind performance due to the flat plate design of its rudder and centerboard. Additionally, a recurring point of attention for older models can be the potential for corrosion in the lower bearing of the cast iron centerboard and issues with the hull-centerboard case joints developing leaks. Water damage to the foot of the mizzenmast on older, non-self-draining models has also been noted. Despite these minor considerations, the Drascombe Longboat remains a cherished vessel, valued for its timeless design and practical utility.