Northbridge Eclipse (Southcoast) Information, Review, Specs

The Northbridge Eclipse entered production in 1978, originating from the design board of Carl Alberg. Alberg, a Swedish-American naval architect, was renowned for creating designs characterized by graceful lines, seaworthiness, and comfortable interiors, a philosophy evident across South Coast Seacraft's offerings. The builder, South Coast Seacraft Co., founded by Hollis Metcalf in 1965 in Shreveport, Louisiana, quickly established itself by producing accessible and practical fiberglass sailboats, excelling particularly in the trailerable pocket cruiser segment.

The Eclipse was specifically intended to replace the company's most successful model, the South Coast 22. While sharing a nearly identical hull with the SC 22, the Northbridge Eclipse featured notable design evolutions. Its rig was moved forward, and modifications were made to both the interior layout and the coachroof. A significant change involved the adoption of mid-boom sheeting, a departure from the SC 22's boom-end sheeting, which offered a different approach to sail control and allowed for options like a bimini for sun protection. Furthermore, the design addressed chronic complaints regarding the cockpit drain on the SC 22, indicating a focus on user experience improvements in the Eclipse model. Production of the Northbridge Eclipse continued until the closure of South Coast Seacraft Co. in June 1981, marking a relatively short but impactful run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a small, trailerable sloop, the Northbridge Eclipse is designed for accessible sailing, carrying a main and a 110 working jib. Its masthead sloop rig and swing keel contribute to its versatility, allowing for both reasonable sailing performance and the ability to access shallow waters and be easily trailered. The implementation of mid-boom sheeting is a distinct characteristic, providing efficient sail trim for its size. While comprehensive anecdotal reviews on its specific handling in various sea states are not extensively documented in broad public searches, its design lineage from the well-regarded South Coast 22 suggests a stable and manageable sailing experience for its class.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Northbridge Eclipse offers accommodations typical for a 22-foot sailboat, designed to maximize usable space within its compact hull. Owner descriptions indicate that while it includes a V-berth forward, it is generally considered more suitable for storage than for sleeping, reflecting its primary role as a day-sailer or pocket cruiser. The cabin features storage capacity on par with other sailboats of its size, and a small galley provides basic amenities for short excursions. The cockpit further enhances the living space with two fairly good-sized storage lazarettes located under the seats. The overall cabin layout of the Northbridge Eclipse differs from that of the South Coast 22, indicating a deliberate effort to optimize the interior for its intended use.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Northbridge Eclipse often appreciate its practical design and the innovations it brought over its predecessor. The inclusion of a swing keel and its trailerable nature are consistently highlighted as significant strengths, offering flexibility for exploring diverse waterways and simplifying storage and transport. The changes made to address the cockpit drain issues found in the SC 22 were also a welcome improvement. While the V-berth's size for sleeping is a noted limitation for some, the overall sentiment points to a well-built, capable small cruiser that embodies South Coast Seacraft's commitment to durable and accessible fiberglass vessels. The enduring community of South Coast owners underscores the lasting appeal and robust construction of these boats, fostering a sense of pride and camaraderie among those who sail them.