Ballerina II Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Ballerina II begins in 1962, marking the commencement of her production by Penryn Boatbuilding Co.. Robert Tucker, her esteemed designer, was celebrated for his "pocket cruisers" that prioritized seaworthiness and efficiency, characteristics clearly evident in the Ballerina II. The vessel originated from an earlier moulded plywood design by Tucker, which evolved into one of the earliest fiberglass production boats with the MkII version in the mid-sixties. Penryn Boatbuilding Co. itself was known for its commitment to practical design and collaboration with respected naval architects, aiming to produce "genuine sea boats" that appealed to sailors seeking reliability. This ethos ensured that the Ballerina II, whether professionally built by Penryn or by amateur enthusiasts, maintained a high standard of quality and utility, with "many hundreds" being constructed.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite her compact dimensions, the Ballerina II, with her long keel and transom-hung rudder, is recognized for her stable and forgiving sailing characteristics. She is often described as having good stability and an unchallenging rig, making her well-suited for both novice and experienced sailors alike. Her fractional sloop rig, combined with her hull design, contributes to a balanced helm and predictable behavior in various sea states. Owners often praise her ability to track well, a hallmark of long keel designs, which provides a comfortable motion in a seaway, even in chop. The Ballerina II is designed for steady cruising rather than high-performance racing, excelling in reliability and ease of handling over raw speed.

Accommodations and Layout

Given her 21.5-foot length, the Ballerina II offers a compact yet functional interior, tailored for overnight stays and weekend cruising. While detailed specifications for maximum headroom are not widely available in structured data, online reviews and owner discussions typically describe a basic arrangement. The interior generally features a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodation for two. A small galley area might include a sink and space for a portable stove. Storage is often limited but cleverly integrated. The overall finish, consistent with boats of her era from builders like Penryn Boatbuilding Co., tends to be practical and robust, often featuring a blend of fiberglass and wood trim. Ventilation is usually provided by an overhead hatch and possibly small portlights, contributing to a modest but livable cabin space. Owners often find the layout sufficient for short cruises, emphasizing practicality over extensive amenities.