Devon Yawl Information, Review, Specs

The production history of the Devon Yawl is a tapestry of various British yards, most notably including Honnor Marine, which helped cement the model’s reputation for build quality. John Lack Boat Builders, operating out of Conyer in Kent, played a significant role in the boat’s mid-production era, providing a high level of finish that appealed to sailors in the Thames Estuary and beyond. While the Devon Yawl is the primary focus of the class, it shares its hull form with the Devon Dayboat, a sibling variant that often features a slightly larger cuddy or different internal layout, catering more to leisure picnicking than competitive racing.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Devon Yawl is widely regarded as one of the most seaworthy open boats of its size, a characteristic driven largely by its 160lb (approx. 72kg) galvanized steel centerplate. This weight provides a high righting moment, allowing the boat to feel "stiff" and secure even when the breeze freshens. According to technical documentation from the Devon Yawl Association, the sail plan is divided between a main, a jib, and a small mizzen mast stepped right aft.

In terms of handling, the mizzen is the Devon Yawl’s "secret weapon." It is not primarily a source of drive but serves as a powerful trim tab for the hull. By over-sheeting the mizzen, a skipper can keep the boat pointed head-to-wind while reefing or hove-to, a feat few other dinghies can perform with such stability. The boat tracks exceptionally well due to its longish keel footprint, though this does mean it lacks the "flick-around" agility of a modern racing skiff. Instead, it offers a predictable, "big boat" feel that is forgiving for novices while remaining technically interesting for experienced sailors who enjoy fine-tuning a split rig.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Devon Yawl has maintained a consistent presence in British nautical media for decades, frequently cited as a benchmark for the "classic daysailer" category. It has been the subject of numerous practical reviews in Yachting Monthly and Practical Boat Owner, where it is often lauded for its longevity and "go-anywhere" coastal capability. Its cultural footprint is most visible in the regattas of the West Country, particularly during Salcombe Yachting Week, where its wooden cousins and GRP variants dominate the local scenery. While it has not starred in major cinema, it is a frequent "character" in British coastal cruising literature, symbolizing a rugged, traditional approach to family sailing.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Devon Yawl, particularly those built during the John Lack or early Honnor Marine eras, should focus on the following technical areas:

• Centerplate Winch and Pivot: The heavy steel centerplate is raised via a winch system. Inspect the wire for fraying and the winch drum for corrosion. The pivot bolt is a high-load item; any "clunking" while sailing off the wind may indicate wear in the pivot hole or a loose bolt.
• Mizzen Mast Step: The mizzen mast is stepped through the aft deck or a small thwart. Because it is often used to hold the boat head-to-wind in high gusts, the leverage can stress the surrounding GRP. Look for spiderweb cracking or signs of compression around the step.
• Internal Buoyancy and Hull Bonding: Early models relied on built-in buoyancy tanks. Ensure these are airtight by checking the inspection hatches and seals. In boats that have been raced hard, check the bonding where the internal moldings meet the hull.
• Spars and Rigging: Many older boats still carry their original Proctor aluminum masts. Check the spreaders and the forestay attachment point for metal fatigue.

Community & Resources

The Devon Yawl benefits from one of the most active and technically proficient class associations in the United Kingdom. The Devon Yawl Association maintains a comprehensive archive of rigging guides, tuning tips, and historical data. They also oversee a robust racing circuit and an annual National Championship, ensuring that the boats hold their value well on the secondhand market. For those seeking new builds or replacement parts, Honnor Marine continues to be the primary touchpoint for the class’s ongoing legacy.

The Verdict

The Devon Yawl remains a premier choice for sailors who prioritize seaworthiness and traditional aesthetics over raw planing speed. It is a "seamanlike" vessel that excels in coastal exploration and tactical fleet racing.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability for an open boat due to the heavy centerplate.
• The yawl rig allows for easy reefing and superior boat control when stationary.
• Strong class association and high resale value.
• Robust GRP construction with a timeless "clinker" look.

Cons:

• Heavy to launch and recover without a dedicated winch or vehicle.
• The mizzen and additional rigging add complexity compared to a standard sloop.
• Not as fast or "exciting" in light airs as modern, lighter dinghy designs.