Gypsy II Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Gypsy II is characterized by its high displacement and an impressive ballast ratio, often cited by owners as nearing 40–45%. This makes the boat exceptionally stiff and predictable in a blow. Unlike the lighter, planing hulls designed by Peter Milne, the Gypsy II is a displacement cruiser that prioritizes sea-kindliness over outright speed. Most models were fitted with bilge keels (triple-keel configuration), which allows the vessel to dry out upright on tidal moorings—a vital feature for the UK’s East Coast and similar shallow-water cruising grounds.

In terms of handling, the boat tracks exceptionally well thanks to its long-chord keels, though this comes at the cost of a larger turning circle compared to fin-keeled contemporaries. Under sail, the boat feels secure and "big" for its length. While it can be somewhat sluggish in light airs due to its wetted surface area and weight, it excels in a Force 4 or 5, where it can carry its canvas long after lighter 20-footers have been forced to reef. The boat’s rig is a standard Masthead Sloop, which is simple to manage single-handedly. More information on the builder's philosophy of stable, accessible craft can be found on the Honnor Marine website.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The transition from the original Gypsy to the Gypsy II focused heavily on interior volume and ergonomics. The Gypsy II features a "stepped" coachroof design that increases headroom in the main cabin without compromising the boat’s low profile. The layout typically provides four berths: two V-berths in the forward cabin (separated by a bulkhead or a privacy curtain) and two settee berths in the main saloon.

For a 20-foot boat, the galley facilities are surprisingly functional, usually featuring a two-burner stove and a small sink. One of the most praised features found in Peter Milne’s micro-cruiser designs is the clever use of space; on the Gypsy II, this often includes a dedicated locker for a chemical toilet and surprising amounts of stowage beneath the bunks and cockpit lockers. The interior is finished with a mix of easy-clean GRP liners and teak or mahogany trim, providing a warm, traditional feel that mirrors the aesthetic of the larger yachting world. Its primary sibling, the Gypsy I, lacks the refined interior height and the more modern window configuration of the Mark II, making the Gypsy II the preferred choice for extended coastal hopping.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Gypsy II, the age of the vessel necessitates a close look at the structural deck core. Like many boats of its era, Honnor Marine used sandwich construction for the decks to provide stiffness; if deck hardware has not been re-bedded, water can ingress and soften the core. Potential buyers should walk the side decks to check for "sponginess" or deflection.

The bilge keel attachments are another critical area. Because these boats are designed to take the ground, the internal laminates around the keel bolts should be inspected for stress cracking or evidence of hard groundings. Additionally, the rudder hangings on the Gypsy II are robust but prone to bushing wear over decades of use. Finally, as many of these boats were originally powered by small outboards in a cockpit well, check the integrity of the well’s drainage and the surrounding seals, as these can become a source of water ingress in heavy following seas.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for owners is the Drascombe Association, which, while focused on the Watkinson designs, often welcomes Gypsy owners due to the shared Honnor Marine heritage. Technical discussions and historical data are also frequently archived by the Practical Boat Owner magazine community, where the Gypsy II is a recurring subject in "Classic Boat" and "Small Cruiser" restoration features.

The Verdict

The Honnor Marine Gypsy II is a rugged, thoughtfully designed micro-cruiser that offers a level of security and comfort rarely found in the 20-foot trailer-sailer category. It is an ideal vessel for a couple or a small family looking to explore coastal estuaries or undertake modest cross-channel passages.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability and seaworthiness for its size.
• Bilge keel configuration allows for easy beaching and tidal mooring.
• High-quality construction typical of Honnor Marine’s heritage.
• Well-proportioned interior with genuine overnighting capability.

Cons:

• Heavy displacement makes it less "zippy" in light wind conditions.
• Significant weight requires a substantial towing vehicle for trailering.
• Limited availability on the second-hand market compared to more mass-produced siblings.