Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing characteristics of the Bounty II are defined by its heavy displacement and high comfort ratio. With a displacement of approximately 18,800 pounds and a relatively modest sail area-to-displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of roughly 15.6, the boat is not a light-air performer; however, it excels once the breeze freshens. Its motion in a seaway is exceptionally "kind," a trait common to the Philip Rhodes designs of this vintage.
According to historical editorial insights from Cruising World, which reviewed its near-identical sibling, the Rhodes 41, the hull’s deep-V sections and heavy ballast-to-displacement ratio (nearly 43%) provide immense stability and tracking ability. Owners frequently report that the Bounty II "sails on rails," requiring minimal attention to the helm when balanced correctly. The long keel and attached rudder provide a sense of security in heavy weather, though this configuration makes the vessel notoriously difficult to maneuver in tight marinas under power, especially when backing down.
Interior Comfort & Variations
By modern standards, the interior of the Bounty II feels narrow due to its 10-foot, 3-inch beam, yet it offers a level of cozy, shipshape security that modern wide-beam yachts lack. The traditional layout typically features a V-berth forward, followed by a head and hanging locker, and a main saloon with two settee berths. Most hulls utilized extensive mahogany or teak joinery to mask the "industrial" look of early fiberglass, creating an atmosphere that mirrors a classic wooden yacht.
A significant variation in the design's lineage is the Rhodes 41, which was built by Pearson Yachts using the same basic hull molds after the Bounty II production ceased. While the Bounty II often featured lower-profile doghouses and varied cockpit layouts, the Rhodes 41 version generally offered slightly more refined fiberglass finishes and standardized interior components. Prospective buyers should note that because many Bounty IIs were finished as semi-custom projects or kit boats, the quality and layout of the cabinetry can vary significantly from one hull to another.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Bounty II’s legacy is preserved primarily through its status as a "pioneer" vessel. It is frequently cited in nautical literature regarding the evolution of boatbuilding materials. The model gained national attention in the late 1950s through high-profile advertisements in Yachting and Motor Boating magazines, which sought to convince a skeptical public that a "plastic" boat would not dissolve in saltwater. Its cultural footprint is most visible in the "Good Old Boat" community, where it is often celebrated as the definitive example of Rhodes' ability to blend beauty with the then-new technology of fiberglass.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
When inspecting a Bounty II, the age of the fiberglass—now exceeding six decades—is the primary concern. While these hulls were built with massive amounts of resin and cloth, early laminating techniques were prone to specific failures.
- Deck Delamination: The decks are typically cored with plywood or balsa, which is prone to rot if hardware fittings were not properly bedded. Spongy sections around the mast partner or chainplates are common.
- Osmotic Blistering: As one of the earliest fiberglass boats, the Bounty II used resins that are highly susceptible to "osmotic pox." Many hulls have required full bottom peels and epoxy treatments over the decades.
- Mast Step and Chainplates: The original steel mast steps are known to corrode, potentially compromising the structural integrity of the rig. Similarly, original stainless steel chainplates should be pulled and inspected for crevice corrosion.
- Rudder Hardware: The heavy, keel-hung rudder relies on bronze gudgeons and pintles that can wear down over time, leading to significant "slop" in the steering system.
Community & Resources
The most active repository of technical knowledge for the Bounty II is the Philip Rhodes designer archives and the various "Classic Plastic" owner groups. The Rhodes 41 & Bounty II Association serves as the primary technical resource, offering historical blueprints and advice on restoring these specific hulls. For general maintenance of early fiberglass, the Good Old Boat technical wiki is frequently cited by owners as a vital resource for sourcing period-correct hardware and managing hull repairs.
The Verdict
The Bounty II is a masterpiece of mid-century naval architecture that offers a gateway into classic yacht ownership without the maintenance burden of a wooden hull. While it lacks the interior volume and light-air agility of modern cruisers, its seaworthiness and timeless lines make it a top choice for traditionalists.
Pros:
- Exceptional heavy-weather handling and sea-kindliness.
- Timeless aesthetic that draws attention in any harbor.
- Overbuilt, thick fiberglass hull provides immense structural durability.
- Historical pedigree as a landmark of 20th-century boatbuilding.
Cons:
- Narrow interior and limited storage compared to modern 40-footers.
- Challenging maneuverability in reverse due to the full keel.
- High probability of deck core issues and osmotic blistering in unrestored models.
- Sluggish performance in light winds (under 8-10 knots).
