West Wight Potter 15 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

The lineage of the West Wight Potter series traces back to the Isle of Wight, UK, where Stanley T. Smith designed the original 14-foot plywood West Wight Potter in 1960. The vision of bringing these innovative small cruisers to the American market was realized by Herb Stewart. Through his company, HMS Marine, which later became International Marine, Stewart secured the U.S. rights from Smith and spearheaded the pivotal transition to fiberglass construction.

The West Wight Potter 15, a collaboration between Smith and Stewart, was initially introduced in 1979. 2, 3, Builder Article The Mk II version, which began production in 1982, featured slight modifications to the hull from the earlier Potter 15 models. International Marine's core design philosophy for the Potter line emphasizes creating safe, stable, and highly capable "pocket cruisers" that are easily trailerable. The Potter 15 Mk II's hard-chine hull, a hallmark of the series, is a key element contributing to its exceptional stability, a critical feature for a small centerboard boat designed to navigate diverse conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The West Wight Potter 15 Mk II is characterized by its forgiving nature and inherent stability, making it a popular choice for new sailors and those looking for a manageable craft. Its design prioritizes ease of use and safety over pure speed, though it is capable of achieving a hull speed of approximately 4.64 knots. Owners often describe its motion on the water as "buoyant as a cork," highlighting its ability to handle a variety of conditions despite its small stature.

The boat is widely regarded as easy to single-hand and responds well to minor adjustments in sail trim, making it an excellent platform for learning the nuances of sailing. Its light displacement and centerboard keel contribute to its portability and ease of launching, a defining characteristic of International Marine's trailerable fleet.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 15 feet, the West Wight Potter 15 Mk II features a cuddy cabin designed to offer basic shelter and accommodation. With a maximum headroom of 3.75 feet, the interior provides a compact space for overnight stays, particularly for one or two individuals. While detailed interior layouts vary between specific boats and owner modifications, the general arrangement typically includes simple sleeping berths. The practical interior emphasizes functionality, consistent with its design as a small, accessible cruiser.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the West Wight Potter 15 Mk II consistently praise its remarkable stability and surprising seaworthiness, often noting its capability to handle conditions that might challenge other boats of its size. Its trailerable nature is a significant advantage, allowing for easy transport to various sailing locations and simplifying off-season storage and maintenance. Many appreciate its low-maintenance requirements, often involving just annual bottom cleaning and anti-fouling painting. The boat is frequently recommended as an excellent choice for learning to sail due to its forgiving handling characteristics.

However, the compact size, while a strength for portability, can also be a limitation. Some owners find the interior space cramped, especially when attempting to sail double-handed or with more than two people. Common maintenance points that sometimes arise with older models include attention to the gel coat around the keel slot and potential issues with the original deck fittings or the centerboard pennant system, which may require re-bedding or adjustment. A strong and active community of West Wight Potter enthusiasts exists, fostering a sense of camaraderie and providing a valuable resource for sharing modifications, experiences, and maintenance advice.