She 9.5 Traveller Information, Review, Specs

The SHE 9.5 Traveller began its production run in 1970, emerging from the boatbuilding yards of South Hants Engineering, a company established in 1968 by the Fitzgerald brothers, with Derek Fitzgerald as a driving force. South Hants Engineering quickly became known for producing high-quality fiberglass yachts, benefiting from an exclusive partnership with the esteemed American naval architecture firm, Sparkman & Stephens (S&S). All yachts built by South Hants Engineering, including the 9.5 Traveller, were based on S&S designs, ensuring a legacy of elegant lines, efficient underwater profiles, and robust construction. The company's production period extended from the late 1960s through the mid-1970s, with some models continuing construction into the late 1970s or early 1980s.

Specifically, the SHE 9.5 Traveller (S&S design #1899) is a significant evolution of the SHE 31. It was intentionally modified to provide better cruising accommodations, featuring increased freeboard and a newly designed deck and coachroof. This adaptation marked a shift towards greater interior volume and comfort, distinguishing it as a dedicated cruising version from its IOR-oriented predecessor.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 30 feet (30.38 ft) and a waterline length of 22.0 feet, the SHE 9.5 Traveller is a heavy displacement monohull, weighing in at 7,900 lbs with 3,400 lbs of ballast. This results in a high ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.43, indicating excellent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze. The displacement-to-length ratio, around 331.1, places the 9.5 Traveller firmly in the heavy cruiser category, suggesting a robust and sea-kindly motion, rather than a light, twitchy performance boat. The sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 14.2 points to a vessel that, while not a light-air flyer, is well-powered for cruising and maintains good performance in moderate to heavy winds.

Owners frequently praise the SHE 9.5 Traveller for its exceptional sailing qualities, particularly its ability to perform beautifully to windward, often described as a "real thoroughbred" that "goes like a demon." While some owners note that she "can be a bit wet in a seaway," this is often balanced by her overall well-built nature and confident tracking. Her relatively small beam, while contributing to her ability to cut through waves, can result in less form stability compared to more modern, wider designs. The boat's fin keel and skeg-hung rudder configuration contribute to its responsive handling and directional stability.

Accommodations and Layout

The SHE 9.5 Traveller's design intent to offer improved cruising accommodations is evident in its interior. Despite being based on the SHE 31, the Traveller boasts increased freeboard and a revised deck and coachroof, which directly translates to a more comfortable living space below. A notable feature is the generous headroom, reportedly reaching 5 feet 11 inches (1.78m) in some areas, which is commendable for a boat of this vintage and size.

The interior layout is typical of a well-designed cruiser from its era, though generally considered more compact than modern 30-footers. A common arrangement includes a galley positioned to starboard, often partially separated from the saloon by a bulkhead. While specific details vary by individual boat and refit, the robust construction quality observed in the hull and deck often extends to the interior joinery and finish, reflecting South Hants Engineering's commitment to quality. Ventilation and storage would be consistent with traditional designs, likely relying on deck hatches and portlights, and ample lockers for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the SHE 9.5 Traveller consistently laud the boat's solid construction and its inherently seaworthy Sparkman & Stephens design. The sentiment that these vessels are "very well built" is a recurring theme, with reports of boats exhibiting "no structural problems" even after decades of use. The sailing performance, particularly its upwind prowess and balance, often evokes strong positive reactions, with some owners describing their first sail as "sailing heaven." The enduring appeal of the S&S design also tends to maintain a premium on the market for well-maintained examples.

On the other hand, owners occasionally point out that the interior accommodations, while comfortable for its time, are "small down below compared with more modern designs". Additionally, while her ability to cut through waves contributes to her performance, some find her "a bit wet in a seaway." Despite these minor points, the overarching consensus highlights the SHE 9.5 Traveller as a capable, well-engineered, and rewarding sailboat for those who appreciate classic design and robust construction.