Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing characteristics of the Doughdish are defined by its significant displacement and deep-ballasted keel, which comprises approximately 750 pounds of lead on a total displacement of 1,500 pounds. This high ballast ratio makes the vessel exceptionally stable and sea-kindly for a boat under 16 feet. According to technical specifications maintained by the current builder, Ballentine's Boat Shop, the hull features a draft of 2' 5", allowing it to track with authority while remaining capable of navigating relatively shoal waters.
Under sail, the Doughdish utilizes a gaff sloop rig with a self-tending jib on a club boom. This configuration makes the boat easy to handle single-handed, as the sailor does not need to winch primary sheets during a tack. The gaff rig provides significant sail area low to the water, which, combined with the heavy keel, allows the boat to stand up well to a breeze. While it lacks the planing speed of a modern dinghy, it excels in its ability to punch through a chop without losing momentum—a trait often referred to by owners as "small boat majesty." The helm is balanced but communicative, providing enough feedback to help a sailor find the "groove" even in light air.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
While the fiberglass hull of the Doughdish significantly reduces the maintenance required compared to its wooden predecessor, there are specific areas that prospective buyers should inspect:
- Wood-to-Fiberglass Bonds: The Doughdish features extensive mahogany or teak trim, including the coamings, seats, and sheer strake. Over time, the sealant between the wood and the fiberglass deck can fail, leading to water intrusion that can rot the wooden components from the underside.
- Chainplate Leakage: The chainplates pass through the deck and are common points for minor leaks. If left unaddressed, this can lead to aesthetic damage or, in some cases, moisture wicking into the cockpit benches.
- Keel Bolt Integrity: Although the lead keel is typically secured with robust bronze bolts, older hulls should be checked for "weeping" at the hull-keel joint, which may indicate the need for re-torquing or re-bedding.
- Gaff Rig Hardware: The gaff jaw and the leathering on the gaff and boom are high-wear areas. Inspect the wooden spars for checks (cracks) and ensure the blocks for the peak and throat halyards are free-running and securely fastened.
- Flotation Tanks: Most Doughdishes are equipped with air tanks for buoyancy. These should be pressure-tested or inspected for integrity to ensure the boat remains unsinkable in the event of a swamping.
Community & Resources
The Doughdish is supported by a robust and active community, largely centered around the H 12 ½ Class Association. This organization oversees the one-design rules that allow the fiberglass Doughdish to race neck-and-neck with original wooden Herreshoff 12 ½ hulls. Because the Doughdish was built to such exacting standards, it is officially recognized for class racing, a rarity for fiberglass replicas. Technical support and replacement parts are currently managed by Ballentine's Boat Shop in Cataumet, Massachusetts, which took over production and parts supply following the closure of Edey & Duff.
The Verdict
The Edey & Duff Doughdish is a premier choice for the sailor who values heritage and aesthetics but lacks the time required to maintain a cedar-on-oak hull. It serves as a bridge between the Golden Age of yachting and modern material science.
Pros:
- Exceptional Stability: The heavy lead keel provides a level of safety and comfort rarely found in boats of this size.
- One-Design Racing: Fully accepted into the Herreshoff 12 ½ class, offering competitive racing against classic wooden yachts.
- Ease of Handling: The self-tending jib and balanced helm make it an ideal solo daysailer.
- Investment Value: These boats hold their value remarkably well due to their pedigree and limited production.
Cons:
- Brightwork Maintenance: Despite the fiberglass hull, the extensive wood trim requires annual varnishing to maintain its appearance.
- Weight: At 1,500 pounds, it is not a "ramp-launchable" dinghy in the traditional sense; it requires a dedicated trailer and often a crane or hoist for launching.
- Initial Cost: The premium build quality results in a higher price point compared to other 16-foot daysailers.
