Eclipse 6.7 (Southcoast) Information, Review, Specs

Produced during the later years of South Coast Seacraft's operation, the Eclipse 6.7 holds a unique place in the company's legacy as it sought to refine and update the characteristics that made its predecessor so successful. Known also as the Northbridge Eclipse, it continues to be cherished by a dedicated community of owners who appreciate its blend of performance and practical design.

History and Design

The Southcoast Eclipse 6.7 began production in 1978. Its creation came during a transitional period for South Coast Seacraft Co., which had been founded in 1965 by Hollis Metcalf. The company was sold in 1975 and ceased operations in 1981, making the Eclipse 6.7 one of its later designs. During this era, South Coast Seacraft had established a reputation for building durable fiberglass sailboats, particularly excelling in the trailerable pocket cruiser segment.

The Eclipse 6.7 was specifically intended to replace the highly successful South Coast 22. While its hull is nearly identical to the SC 22, the Eclipse 6.7 featured several notable updates, including a moved-forward rig and changes to the interior and coachroof, 7]. The design was penned by Carl Alberg, a naval architect renowned for his graceful lines, seaworthiness, and comfortable interiors, qualities evident across South Coast Seacraft's offerings 2, 3, Builder Article. This design evolution aimed to capitalize on the growing market for trailerable cruising sailboats, offering an updated take on a proven platform.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Southcoast Eclipse 6.7 is characterized by its swing keel, allowing for a minimum draft of just 0.83 feet when raised and a maximum draft of 4.83 feet when lowered, 4, 5]. This versatile keel configuration is a significant advantage for shallow water cruising and facilitates easy trailering, a hallmark of South Coast Seacraft's design philosophy, 7]. Rigged as a masthead sloop, the boat carries a reported sail area of 209 square feet, combined with a relatively light displacement of 1800 pounds. This sail area to displacement combination suggests a nimble and responsive boat, capable of performing well in lighter winds.

With a length overall of 22.0 feet and a waterline length of 17.0 feet, the Eclipse 6.7 has a theoretical hull speed of approximately 5.52 knots. Owners often describe similar handling characteristics to the SC 22, given that much of the hardware, including the keel, rudder, and hull, shares commonality with its predecessor. This suggests a balanced and predictable motion, typical of Alberg's designs which prioritized seaworthiness and ease of handling.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications on the interior layout are limited in structured data, the Southcoast Eclipse 6.7 was designed to offer practical accommodations for a 22-foot trailerable cruiser. The cabin layout notably differs from that of the earlier SC 22, reflecting the design updates made to the coachroof. Interior cabin storage is considered about par for a sailboat of its size, providing adequate space for weekend trips or short cruises.

The cockpit of the Eclipse 6.7 includes two reasonably sized lazarette storage compartments located under the seats. Given South Coast Seacraft's general building ethos, the interior would likely feature durable fiberglass construction with functional, rather than luxurious, finishes, aligning with the boat's practical cruising purpose.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Southcoast Eclipse 6.7 benefit from a vibrant and active community. The South Coast Owners' Association (SCOA) provides a forum and resources for enthusiasts, underscoring the enduring appeal and robust construction of these classic vessels. The camaraderie among owners is a frequently noted aspect of the ownership experience. While specific "chronic complaints" are mentioned in owner discussions, detailed specifics are not widely available in public snippets. Generally, owners of South Coast boats tend to praise their solid construction and seaworthy designs, which contribute to a satisfying sailing experience.