Splinter 21 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Splinter 21 in 1963 marked another significant design from E. G. Van de Stadt, a designer known for his prolific work and successful collaborations, including Tyler's inaugural production yacht, the "Glass Slipper." 2, 4, Builder Article Tyler Boat Co. Ltd., founded by Edward Tyler, began its journey applying fiberglass technology from prefabricated housing to marine applications, quickly becoming a leading laminator of GRP hulls for numerous yacht builders. The Splinter 21 emerged during an era when Tyler was instrumental in establishing fiberglass as a reliable and widely adopted material in yacht construction. While some sources also attribute production to H. H. Marine (UK) and Peulen Shipyard (NED), Tyler Boat Co. Ltd. is consistently identified as a primary builder. Van de Stadt's design philosophy for the Splinter 21 appears to have focused on maximizing performance within a compact form, evidenced by her relatively slim hull compared to many contemporaries.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 21 feet and a moderate displacement of 2,780 lbs, the Splinter 21 presents as a small but capable sailboat. She is characterized as having a moderate weight and is considered underpowered, suggesting she may prefer steady breezes over very light airs to achieve her best performance. However, her E. G. Van de Stadt design features an "S-frame hull form" and a fin keel, contributing to good stability and a comfortable motion in a seaway. Owners and reviewers often note her reasonable stiffness and excellent righting capability, instilling confidence in her handling. Despite being moderate weight, her relatively narrow beam of 6.83 feet contributes to a hull design that has been described as "speedy," setting her apart from many other designs in her class. Her masthead sloop rig provides a reported sail area of 163 sq ft, which works in conjunction with her hull form to offer a balanced sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Given her compact size, the Splinter 21's interior accommodations are necessarily modest, designed to provide essential comforts for short cruises or day trips. While detailed layouts vary by specific finishing, typical arrangements would feature a basic saloon area, often incorporating a round seat, and potentially a small pantry area. The inclusion of a "dog cage" suggests a quarter berth or dedicated storage space. The general construction, with a fiberglass hull and deck, would have been finished by Tyler or other yards, with interior materials and finishes varying accordingly. As a vessel from the 1960s, interiors would likely feature a practical, functional design, prioritizing utility and durability over extensive luxuries, common for small cruisers of that era.

Owner's Perspectives

While specific detailed owner reviews for the Splinter 21 are not extensively documented in public forums, the existence of discussions regarding owner modifications and improvements points to an active community of enthusiasts who appreciate and maintain these classic boats. Owners frequently highlight the boat's "characterful" and "retro look," appreciating her classic lines and reliable construction from the Tyler Boat Co. Ltd. Her qualities as a stable and capable small cruiser, even suitable for solo sailing, are often praised, underscoring her enduring appeal for those seeking a manageable and enjoyable vessel.