Gloucester 16 Information, Review, Specs

The Gloucester 16's lineage traces back to the Newport 16, a design conceived by C. William Lapworth. The Newport 16 itself shared a hull with the earlier Columbia 15, with a cabin added to enhance its utility. This evolution reflects a broader industry trend in the mid-20th century towards producing accessible, low-maintenance fiberglass sailboats to meet a growing demand for recreational boating. Lockley Newport Boats, and its successor Gloucester Yachts, were known for building sturdy, practical, and often trailerable fiberglass sailboats, catering primarily to the daysailer and small cruiser market.

The Gloucester 16 was produced from 1986 to 1989. A significant design feature of the Gloucester 16, carried over from the Newport 16, is its variable draft. It was available with a fixed keel option (2.5 ft draft) or, more commonly, a swing keel mechanism, allowing the draft to be reduced from 3.75 feet to a mere 0.75 feet. This design choice greatly enhances its trailerability and ability to access shallow waters, catering to a wider range of sailing locations and preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, with a length overall of just over 15.5 feet and a waterline length of 14 feet, the Gloucester 16 is designed to offer enjoyable sailing performance. The boat's fractional rig contributes to its ease of handling and allows for efficient sail trim. The relatively light displacement of 900 lbs, combined with 200 lbs of ballast, provides a stable platform for a boat of its dimensions.

Owners frequently describe the Gloucester 16 (and its Newport 16 predecessor) as a safe and forgiving boat, making it suitable for beginners and experienced sailors alike. Its design, particularly with the swing keel, allows for confident sailing in various conditions, and it is capable of being beached for picnics and swimming. The ability to raise the keel makes it highly versatile for exploring coastal and inland waters. Handling is generally considered manageable, with a single person capable of easily setting up, sailing, and taking down the boat.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its length of 15.58 feet, the Gloucester 16 is primarily a daysailer with minimal accommodations, often referred to as a "mini-cruiser" or "pocket cruiser." The interior typically features a small cuddy cabin, providing basic shelter. While specific details can vary, the cabin is generally simple, often featuring a V-berth arrangement that allows for overnighting, particularly for a single person or a couple. Some configurations include a small pulpit and roller furling, enhancing convenience. Due to its size, standing headroom is not a feature of the Gloucester 16. The focus of the interior is on functional use of space rather than extensive amenities, providing a secure and dry place to store gear or rest.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gloucester 16, or its Newport 16 counterpart, consistently praise its solid construction and versatile design. Many highlight its ease of trailering and the freedom afforded by its variable draft, which allows access to shallow anchorages and makes launching and retrieving straightforward. The boat is often cherished as a first sailboat, providing a forgiving and safe platform for learning.

Common discussion points among owners revolve around practical maintenance, such as inspecting the centerboard pivot mechanism and addressing potential deck leaks, which are not uncommon in older fiberglass boats. Owners often appreciate the boat's ability to offer a "larger boat" feel compared to other small daysailers, making it a capable and enjoyable vessel for short cruises and coastal exploration. The enduring appeal of the Gloucester 16 is reflected in dedicated owner communities and forums, where enthusiasts share knowledge and support, attesting to its lasting value and functional design.