Hermann 19 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Hermann 19 is a light-displacement vessel, weighing in at approximately 1,000 pounds with 200 pounds of ballast. This gives it a relatively low ballast-to-displacement ratio of 20%, suggesting that the boat relies significantly on its 6.42-foot beam and crew weight for initial stability. It is rigged as a fractional sloop with a total sail area of roughly 171 square feet.

On the water, the boat is known for its ability to point and tack surprisingly well for a centerboard-driven hull. With the centerboard fully extended, it draws about 1.58 feet, but with the board retracted, it can float in as little as 9 inches of water, making it an ideal platform for "gunkholing" or beaching in sandy bays. In his 2010 evaluation of the model, nautical author Steve Henkel noted that the boat’s fiberglass skin is notably tougher than many of its contemporaries, likely due to the heavy hand-layup techniques used at Ted Hermann’s shop. While its PHRF rating of 312 identifies it as a slower cruiser rather than a racer, owners report a "lively" feel in light to moderate air, though the low ballast ratio requires early reefing when the wind exceeds 15 knots to manage heeling.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 19-foot boat, the Hermann 19 offers a functional, albeit snug, "pocket cruiser" interior. The cabin provides approximately 42 inches of headroom—a height that necessitates a crouching posture for most adults but offers enough space for sitting comfortably on the berths. The standard layout features a V-berth capable of sleeping two people. In some variants, the V-berth is shortened on the port side to accommodate a marine head or a portable toilet.

The interior materials are a hallmark of the era, typically featuring plywood soles and bunk bases rather than the molded fiberglass liners found in more modern boats. The cockpit is quite spacious for the boat's overall length, featuring mahogany slat benches that provide a classic aesthetic contrast to the fiberglass hull. The Hermann 19 was part of a broader lineage from Ted Hermann’s Boat Shop, which included the Hermann 14 whaleboat, the Hermann 15, the Hermann 17 (a popular catboat variant), and the larger Hermann 20 and 22 cruisers.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should prioritize the inspection of the boat's core materials. Unlike many builders who moved to balsa, Ted Hermann utilized plywood for deck cores. If the deck hardware has not been properly bedded over the decades, water intrusion can lead to widespread delamination and "soft spots" that are labor-intensive to repair.

Another high-priority area is the centerboard trunk and pivot pin. Because the boat is often used in shallow, sandy environments, the centerboard trunk is prone to debris buildup or wear on the lifting mechanism. The rudder assembly should also be checked; the transom-hung rudder is exposed to significant stress, and the mahogany tiller and rudder head often suffer from rot if stored uncovered. Finally, as many of these boats were originally fitted with small 3 to 6 hp outboards, the transom reinforcement should be inspected for stress cracks caused by heavier, modern four-stroke engines.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for owners is the Catboat Association, which, while focused on the cat-rigged models, remains the most authoritative resource for information on Ted Hermann’s New York-built fleet.

The Verdict

The Hermann 19 is an excellent entry-point for sailors who prioritize historical charm and shoal-water access over modern amenities.

Pros:

• Extremely shallow draft allows for exploration of areas inaccessible to most keelboats.
• Heavy hand-laid fiberglass construction provides a durable, "bulletproof" hull.
• Compact and lightweight enough for easy trailering and seasonal storage.

Cons:

• Limited headroom (42 inches) makes extended stays below deck uncomfortable for many.
• Low ballast ratio requires attentive sail management in high winds.
• High risk of plywood core rot in the decks and cockpit sole of neglected hulls.