Gloucester 19 Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Gloucester 19 commenced in 1983 under Gloucester Yachts, a company that evolved from Lockley Newport Boats and continued the tradition of producing accessible fiberglass sailboats. Stuart Windley is widely credited as the designer of the Gloucester 19, with some sources also associating Harry R. Sindle with its design. Gloucester Yachts, during this era, was known for its performance-oriented approach to design and manufacturing. The company prioritized the use of fiberglass, aligning with the industry's shift towards durable, low-maintenance materials for mass-produced recreational boats.

The Gloucester 19 was specifically conceived as a daysailer version of the Gloucester 20, featuring a robust fiberglass hull and deck construction. A defining characteristic of its design is the swing keel, which allows for a variable draft from a shallow 1.0 foot to a maximum of 4.5 feet, greatly enhancing its trailerability and access to shallower waters. This feature highlights a design philosophy aimed at practicality and ease of use for the recreational sailor. After Gloucester Yachts ceased operations by 1988, the molds for the Gloucester 19 were acquired by Quickstep Sailboats, which continued its production as the Quickstep 19. The Quickstep 19, also designed by Stuart Windley, was marketed as a pocket cruiser and even offered a fin keel option, demonstrating a slight evolution from the original Gloucester 19's pure daysailer focus.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a light sailboat, the Gloucester 19 exhibits characteristics of a high performer, especially suitable for day-sailing activities. Its fractional sloop rig, combined with a length overall of just over 19 feet and a waterline length of 16.5 feet, suggests a nimble and responsive vessel. The design of the Gloucester 19, with its swing keel and a ballast of 550 pounds within a displacement of 1600 pounds, contributes to its stability, allowing it to stand up to a decent breeze.

Owners and reviewers often find the Gloucester 19 to be an enjoyable boat to sail, particularly in various sea states, a testament to its practical design. While it is noted for being stable and stiff, some sources also indicate a lower righting capability if capsized, which is a consideration for lighter, performance-oriented daysailers. The ability to reduce its draft to just 1.0 foot via the swing keel not only aids in trailering but also provides excellent access to shallow anchorages and makes beaching feasible, enhancing its versatility for coastal exploration.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its classification primarily as a daysailer, the Gloucester 19 offers a functional, albeit compact, interior layout. While specific headroom figures are not widely published, its small size dictates that standing headroom would likely be minimal or nonexistent. The design, however, has been noted for having a "more spacy hull design" compared to 66% of similar sailboats, suggesting a relatively open and usable internal volume for its class.

Typically, a sailboat of this size designed for daysailing would feature a basic cuddy cabin forward, providing shelter and possibly a V-berth arrangement suitable for two adults for very simple overnighting or storage. Owners value the practical aspects of its interior, such as the shoal draft keel, which eliminates a bulky centerboard trunk, thereby maximizing interior space for a boat of its length. The emphasis would be on functional, low-maintenance materials like fiberglass, consistent with the builder's overall approach to production.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Gloucester sailboats, including the Gloucester 19, often form dedicated communities, sharing insights and support on forums and groups. A consistent strength praised by owners is the boat's practical design, particularly the swing keel, which is highly valued for facilitating shallow water access and ease of trailering. Many appreciate the Gloucester 19 as a capable step-up for those looking for a larger daysailer or a small, entry-level cruiser, offering more space and sailing capabilities than smaller dinghies. The enduring appeal and build quality of these fiberglass boats are often cited, contributing to their ability to hold value on the used market.