Winter Harbor 21 Information, Review, Specs

The Winter Harbor 21 began its production run in 1907 and continued until 1924, with a limited total of nine hulls built. Conceived specifically for the Winter Harbor Yacht Club, the design's primary goal was to establish a competitive one-design racing class. The "Knockabout" in its alternative name, Winter Harbor Knockabout, hints at its design for simplicity and ease of handling. W. Starling Burgess, known for his prowess in designing fast sailboats and adhering to strict one-design principles, likely influenced the boat's performance-oriented characteristics. George Lawley & Son, the esteemed builder, brought their reputation for "perfection in every detail" and "fine yacht construction" to the Winter Harbor 21, ensuring each vessel was built to the highest standards of the era using wood construction.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Winter Harbor 21 boasts performance characteristics that reflect its racing pedigree. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 26.95, she exhibits excellent light-air performance, allowing her to accelerate quickly and maintain speed even in gentle breezes. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 237 suggests a boat that is relatively light for her length, falling into a moderately-light performance category rather than a heavy displacement cruiser. While specific ballast information is not available, the boat's continued active racing status and the appreciation from current owners for its handling confirm its suitability for competitive sailing. Owners and enthusiasts describe the experience of sailing a gaff-rigged, all-wooden Winter Harbor 21 as a classic and engaging one.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its primary purpose as a one-design club racer from the early 20th century, the Winter Harbor 21's interior accommodations are minimal, focusing on functionality over extensive comfort. With a length overall of just over 30 feet and a narrow beam of 7.25 feet, the internal volume is limited. There is no specified maximum headroom, suggesting that any enclosed space below deck would be primarily for storage or very basic shelter, not for standing or extended cruising. The design prioritizes open cockpit space for crew during racing, typical of a knockabout class, rather than a comprehensive cruising layout with multiple berths or a full galley.

Owner's Perspectives

The Winter Harbor 21 enjoys a dedicated and passionate owner base, largely due to its historical significance and active racing fleet. Owners consistently highlight the boat's enduring quality, with many of the original vessels having been meticulously restored and still actively sailed today. The class remains a vibrant part of the sailing community at the Winter Harbor Yacht Club, with races held regularly during the summer season. This longevity and continued participation underscore the boat's solid construction and enjoyable sailing characteristics, reinforcing its reputation as a cherished classic among sailing enthusiasts. No widespread or common problems are frequently noted, a testament to its robust wooden construction and the diligent care of its owners.