Drascombe Lugger Information, Review, Specs

The Drascombe Lugger was first conceived by John Watkinson, with initial production beginning in 1968, followed by fiberglass production starting in 1969. Watkinson's design philosophy was rooted in creating a boat that he could sail single-handed, yet was spacious enough to accommodate his family. He drew inspiration from the sturdy fishing vessels that navigated challenging, choppy waters, aiming for a design that prioritized stability and adaptability.

Honnor Marine Ltd., established in 1956 in Totnes, Devon, became the primary builder of the Drascombe range. The company's ethos during the Lugger's production centered on crafting robust, safe, and easily managed small vessels that retained a classic, traditional style. While primarily constructed from Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) for durability, the Lugger maintained traditional aesthetics through the incorporation of classic wooden trims. The Drascombe Lugger's successful design served as the foundation for a larger family of Drascombe boats, including the smaller Dabber and the stretched Longboat, demonstrating the adaptability of Watkinson's original concept.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Drascombe Lugger is celebrated for its predictable and forgiving sailing characteristics, making it suitable for both novice and experienced sailors. Despite its relatively compact length overall of 18.75 feet, it boasts a wide beam of 6.25 feet, contributing significantly to its inherent stability. Owners consistently find the boat to be exceptionally stable, rarely feeling as though it is pushed beyond sensible limits, which is particularly beneficial for those new to sailing.

Equipped with a gunter rig and 122 square feet of reported sail area, the Lugger offers good performance under sail and is also capable under oars. Its design emphasizes seaworthiness and versatility, allowing it to handle various sea states with comfort and predictability. The wide and deep cockpit further enhances safety and comfort on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

The Drascombe Lugger prioritizes an open and versatile layout over extensive enclosed accommodations. While specific headroom figures are not provided, the design clearly focuses on maximizing usable cockpit space. The interior provides generous room, with the capability to comfortably seat up to four people. The wide and deep cockpit is a signature feature, offering ample space for crew and gear.

Despite its open nature, the Lugger is noted for its surprisingly substantial stowage options. Owners report that the stowage capacity is quite large for a boat of its size, allowing for gear, provisions, and personal items to be stowed away. The general arrangement is simple and practical, reflecting its heritage as a highly capable day sailer and coastal cruiser, rather than a boat with full cabin amenities. The use of wood gunwales and a Sitka spruce mast contributes to its classic appeal.

Owner's Perspectives

The Drascombe Lugger has fostered a strong, passionate, and active community of owners worldwide, a testament to its enduring popularity. Owners frequently praise the boat for its inherent seaworthiness, which instills confidence in various conditions, and its relatively low maintenance requirements. The timeless design, coupled with rugged construction, makes the Lugger a resilient and charming craft capable of fulfilling diverse roles, from relaxed coastal cruising to more adventurous expeditions. Its robust build and ability to perform well under both sail and oar are consistently highlighted as key strengths by the owner community.