Sailing Performance & Handling
The Corribee Mk II is frequently praised for its predictable and forgiving nature, characterized by a level of stiffness and "big boat" feel that belies its 20' 9" length. According to technical insights from the Corribee Owners Association, the boat was offered with several keel configurations, most notably a shallow-draft fin and a twin (bilge) keel arrangement. While the fin keel offers superior pointing ability, the bilge keel version remains highly sought after in the UK for its ability to dry out on tidal moorings.
With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the heavy side for a 21-foot boat, the Corribee Mk II tracks exceptionally well and does not get "bullied" by chop as easily as lighter modern daysailers. The Bermudan sloop rig is the most common configuration, providing enough sail area to keep the boat moving in light airs while remaining easy to reef when the wind picks up. A smaller number of Mk IIs were outfitted with junk rigs, a modification favored by long-distance cruisers for its ease of handling and "infinite" reefing capabilities. Owners often report that the boat feels most at home in a Force 4 to 5, where it settles into a groove with minimal weather helm.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Inside, the Corribee Mk II is unashamedly a small boat, prioritizing functional cruising over luxury. Compared to the Mk I, the Mk II features a slightly raised coachroof which provides improved sitting headroom, though standing headroom remains impossible for most adults. The standard layout typically consists of two full-length quarter berths and a V-berth in the bow, separated by a small galley area and a space for a chemical toilet.
The construction of the Mk II saw several variations throughout its production run. While Newbridge Boats was the primary builder, the design saw refinements that eventually led to the Mk III, which featured a redesigned deck molding and a more integrated interior liner. The transition from the Mk I to the Mk II was the most significant, moving away from the "stepped" hull of the clinker-style GRP to a smooth hull that was easier to maintain and offered slightly more beam at the waterline. Despite its diminutive size, the use of high-quality wood trim in many early models gives the cabin a warm, traditional feel that is often missing in contemporary entry-level boats.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Corribee Mk II occupies a unique place in maritime lore, largely due to its association with Dame Ellen MacArthur. Her first boat, a Corribee Mk II named Iduna, was the vessel she used to sail solo around Great Britain, a journey detailed in her early writings and covered by Yachting Monthly. This feat cemented the boat’s reputation as a legitimate blue-water capable micro-cruiser. Furthermore, the Corribee has been the vessel of choice for several other notable small-boat voyagers, including Katie Miller, who also performed a high-profile solo circumnavigation of Britain in a Corribee named Elektra to raise money for charity.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach a Corribee Mk II with an eye toward the common aging pains of British GRP boats from the 70s and 80s.
- Chainplates and Deck Fittings: Like many boats of this era, the chainplates can develop leaks that, if left unaddressed, can saturate the deck core. Buyers should check for "crunchiness" or soft spots around the shroud bases.
- Rudder Assembly: The pintles and gudgeons on the transom-hung rudder are known wear points. Excessive play in the rudder can lead to a vibrating helm and should be inspected for bushing wear.
- Keel Bolts: On fin keel models, the integrity of the keel bolts is a high-priority inspection item. While the Corribee is robustly built, older boats may show signs of weeping at the hull-keel joint.
- Windows: The original window seals are a frequent source of cabin leaks. Many owners have replaced these with modern bolted-through acrylic panels or updated rubber gaskets to keep the interior dry.
Community & Resources
The survival and continued relevance of the model are largely thanks to the Corribee Owners Association, which serves as a central repository for technical drawings, rigging guides, and historical data. This volunteer-run organization is an essential resource for anyone restoring or maintaining a Mk II, providing a level of documentation rarely seen for boats of this size.
The Verdict
The Corribee Mk II is a quintessential classic that offers a low-cost entry into serious coastal cruising. It is a boat that rewards good seamanship and provides a sense of security that is rare in the sub-22-foot category.
Pros:
- Exceptional seaworthiness and stability for its size.
- Iconic pedigree with a history of significant coastal and offshore voyages.
- Strong, active owner association providing technical support.
- Affordable to buy, maintain, and moor.
Cons:
- Extremely limited headroom and cramped living quarters for more than two people.
- Older GRP hulls require diligent inspection for osmosis and deck delamination.
- Slow performance in light winds compared to modern, lightweight designs.
