Brittany Class Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Brittany Class in 1940 occurred at a pivotal time for A. H. Moody & Sons. While the shipyard had been established in 1827 primarily for repairs, it began its journey into yacht production in 1934, laying the groundwork for a brand that would prioritize durability and craftsmanship with the finest quality materials, predominantly wood at this stage. The Brittany Class emerged from this ethos, a product of collaboration with Jack Laurent Giles, one of the 20th century's most influential English yacht designers.

Laurent Giles was renowned for pioneering scientific yacht design while also creating highly regarded traditional sailing yachts. His design philosophy emphasized combining innovation with specialized naval architecture, and yachts like the Brittany Class showcase his expertise in crafting capable and elegant vessels. Built entirely of wood, from its hull to its deck, the Brittany Class reflects Moody's early manufacturing practices, where skilled shipwrights meticulously constructed each vessel. The limited production run of 20 boats highlights its bespoke nature, characteristic of yacht building in that era before the shift to more efficient GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) construction that would define Moody's later success. Given its wartime origins and limited numbers, detailed records of significant variations during its production are not widely available.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 33.5 feet and a waterline length of 25.25 feet, the Brittany Class is characterized by its substantial displacement of 12,800 pounds. This heavy displacement, indicated by a high displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 354.46, firmly places it in the category of traditional, full-bodied cruisers. Its reported sail area of 502 square feet results in a sail area-to-displacement ratio of about 14.68, suggesting that the Brittany Class is a powerful boat that will likely require a good breeze to achieve its hull speed of 6.73 knots.

Designed with a full, long keel, the Brittany Class would offer excellent directional stability and a comfortable motion in a seaway, characteristic of vessels intended for serious cruising. This keel type provides a deep, protected bilge and robust tracking ability, making it forgiving for long passages. While specific anecdotal descriptions of its handling are scarce due to its age and limited production, its design parameters point to a yacht that is inherently stable and solid, rather than a light-air performer or a quick-turning racer. The absence of specific ballast information in available data prevents a precise calculation of its ballast-to-displacement ratio, but its heavy overall displacement and long keel design would contribute significantly to its inherent stability.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior layouts for the Moody Brittany Class are not widely documented, its construction in the 1940s and its classification as a traditional cruising cutter provide insights into its likely accommodations. Without specific data on maximum headroom beyond its general dimensions, it is reasonable to infer a functional and practical interior. Early 20th-century wooden yachts of this size typically featured simple, robust, and well-crafted wooden joinery throughout, emphasizing durability over extensive amenities.

The layout would likely include a V-berth or similar arrangement forward for sleeping, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, and a galley area, probably on one side, with basic cooking and storage facilities. A dedicated head compartment would also be expected. Storage would be integrated into the wooden cabinetry and beneath berths. Ventilation would primarily rely on deck hatches and portlights. The overall impression would be one of traditional nautical charm and solid, functional living spaces, reflecting the craftsmanship prevalent in Moody's wooden constructions of that era.