Bounty II Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Bounty II, Rhodes Design #658, can be traced back to Philip Rhodes' earlier wooden design, the Bounty (Design #451). Recognizing the potential of fiberglass as a revolutionary boatbuilding material, Rhodes adapted his proven design for this new construction method, with William Garden lending his expertise to facilitate the transition. Production commenced in 1956 and continued until 1961, making the Bounty II one of the first production auxiliary sailboats of its size to be built in fiberglass.

The primary builders were Coleman Boat & Plastics and Aero Marine Plastics in California. A select few, approximately 12 vessels, were finished by Palmer Johnson Yachts in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. During this era, Palmer Johnson, known for its tradition of building and repairing wooden vessels, was beginning to venture into selling production fiberglass models through its brokerage division, even as its core focus remained on custom, high-quality builds. Source: Builder Article Early Bounty II models featured a fractional rig with a fiberglass mast, a testament to the innovative materials being explored at the time. Later iterations transitioned to a masthead rig with an aluminum spar, a common evolution reflecting advancements in rigging technology. notes] The enduring quality of the design is evident in its legacy; the molds for the Bounty II were later acquired by Pearson Yachts and modified to produce the popular Rhodes 41.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bounty II, with a length overall of just over 40 feet and a waterline length of 28 feet, is characterized by a heavy displacement hull. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 382 indicates a very substantial vessel for her waterline, contributing to a comfortable and seakindly motion, particularly suited for bluewater cruising. Her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16 suggests a balanced performance profile, not an extreme light-air flyer, but a capable and steady performer across a range of wind conditions.

Owners and reviewers frequently describe the Bounty II as a seaworthy, strong, and stable vessel. While she may not be considered "stiff" in her initial resistance to heel, meaning she will heel readily in a breeze, she possesses an "excellent righting capability if capsized." This characteristic, coupled with her narrow beam and a "healthy ballast/displacement ratio" (even without a specific ballast weight provided), implies strong ultimate stability, allowing her to stand up to significant weather and recover reliably from deep angles of heel. The long keel design further enhances her directional stability, making her track well and providing a confident motion in a seaway.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bounty II, designed as a comfortable cruising sloop, typically features a traditional layout. Unlike many later fiberglass boats that utilized molded interior pans, the Bounty II was built without such a pan, suggesting that interiors were often finished with extensive joinery, allowing for a degree of customization in the layout and finish.

While specific detailed layouts can vary, a common arrangement for a vessel of this size and era would likely include a V-berth forward, followed by a main salon with settees that convert to berths and a dining table. A galley, complete with a stove, sink, and icebox, would typically be positioned to one side, often opposite a navigation station or an additional berth. A head compartment would also be incorporated, providing essential amenities. With a fresh water capacity of 60 gallons, the Bounty II was equipped for extended periods away from the dock. The use of solid fiberglass for the hull and deck provides a robust structure, contributing to a sense of security below decks.