Sound Interclub (Mower) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Sound Interclub class was spurred by a collective effort led by Carroll B. Alker of the Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club, aimed at fostering organized racing on Long Island Sound. Designed by Charles D. Mower, a noted yacht designer and former design editor for Rudder magazine, the Sound Interclub entered production in 1926. Twenty-seven examples of this wooden-hulled monohull were built during its brief production run, concluding in 1927.

Nevins Inc., under the leadership of Henry B. Nevins, was the chosen builder for these yachts, a testament to their reputation for unparalleled quality and meticulous craftsmanship in custom yacht construction. The Nevins shipyard on City Island, New York, was renowned for its commitment to producing vessels that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also exceptional in their seakeeping abilities. Collaborating with esteemed naval architects like Mower, Nevins brought sophisticated designs to life with masterful precision, ensuring each Sound Interclub was a unique, high-quality build. The original class was formally known as the Long Island Sound Interclub.

A notable turn in the class's history occurred in 1938 when a significant number of the original boats were sold and relocated to Lake George, New York. Organized racing for the Sound Interclubs continued there well into the late 1950s, highlighting the enduring appeal and robust construction of these classic racers. The only known surviving design lines for the Sound Interclub are those published in Edwin Schoettle's Sailing Craft. The timeless nature of these yachts is further underscored by the complete restoration of two original boats, a process documented in a January 2015 issue of WoodenBoat magazine.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Though compact with a length overall of 28.75 feet and a waterline length of 19.0 feet, the Sound Interclub was designed for spirited performance. Her fin keel and fractional sloop rig contributed to her racing prowess. Owners and enthusiasts describe the Sound Interclub as a sailboat possessing excellent balance and handling characteristics. She is generally regarded as "not extreme in any way," making her a good choice for an all-around sailing experience. Descriptions often highlight her as a "beautiful, wholesome, comfortable, fast and well behaved boat," capable of plowing through choppy conditions. With a displacement of 6000 lbs and a ballast of 2500 lbs of lead, she offers a solid feel on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

As a dedicated racing class from the 1920s, the Sound Interclub's interior accommodations are, as expected, relatively spartan and focused on utility rather than extensive cruising comfort. The design includes a "somewhat longer cabin trunk than many racing boats of her general type," which would have provided a bit more interior volume. Primarily, the cabin featured "two berths," which was the main accommodation for a small yacht of this kind, catering to crew rest between races or basic overnight stays. Details on headroom are not commonly cited, which is typical for racing yachts of this size and era, where standing headroom would likely not have been a priority. Given her wooden hull construction by Nevins, the interior finish would have reflected the builder's renowned craftsmanship, likely featuring high-quality wood joinery and a functional layout appropriate for a racing vessel.