Herreshoff 20 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The H-20 is defined by an extraordinary ballast ratio of approximately 55%, with 1,625 pounds of lead carried on a total displacement of 2,950 pounds. This high proportion of weight in the keel makes the boat exceptionally stiff, allowing it to remain upright and "on its feet" long after smaller daysailers would be forced to reef. According to technical assessments by Soundings Online, the hull form features a more pronounced bow overhang and a fuller midsection than the 12½, which contributes to its reputation as a "drier" boat in the choppy conditions of Narragansett or Buzzards Bay.

The rig is a fractional sloop, typically delivered with a Marconi mainsail and a small, self-tacking jib. This configuration provides a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 16.5, placing it in the "moderate" performance category. While it is not a planing sportboat, the H-20 is remarkably agile; the transom-hung rudder and long, cutaway keel provide a balance of tracking stability and responsiveness. Editorial reviews often note that the boat is "absolute bliss to sail," requiring only a light touch on the varnished ash tiller even when the breeze pipes up. For those seeking a more traditional aesthetic, a gaff-rigged version was also authorized by the designers, which offers more sail area lower down for increased power in light air.

On the water, the H-20 behaves like a much larger yacht. The momentum provided by its nearly 3,000-pound displacement allows it to carry its way through tacks and handle heavy weather with a "big boat" feel. Handling is further simplified by the leads for halyards and sheets, which are generally directed to bronze hardware on the cabin top or cockpit coaming, making it a viable choice for single-handed sailing.

Popular Mentions & Media

The launch of the first H-20 hull in 2011 was a significant event in the wooden boat community, extensively covered by CharterWorld and specialized nautical publications. It was marketed as the "80 years in the making" yacht, appealing to purists who wanted a genuine Herreshoff design but preferred modern build quality. The boat’s lineage is frequently discussed in relation to the legendary "Fish Class" (a slightly larger 20' 9" sibling designed in 1916) and the "Marlin," which used the Fish hull but added a cruising cabin. The H-20 effectively fills the gap between the 16-foot 12½ and the 21-foot Fish Class, serving as a modern representative of the Herreshoff "Universal Rule" philosophy.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the H-20 is a modern build, its high-end construction materials and traditional hardware require specific maintenance to prevent common issues.

• Brightwork & Varnish: With extensive teak toe-rails, coamings, and seats, the H-20 demands a rigorous varnish schedule. Failure to maintain the UV coating can lead to "graying out" and moisture penetration under the finish, which is particularly difficult to repair on the traditionally constructed paneled cabin doors.
• Cold-Molded Hull Inspection: The hull is vacuum-bagged white cedar and Spanish cedar with a fiberglass skin. While highly durable, buyers should check for any "checking" or cracks in the exterior paint/epoxy, especially around the waterline and the lead keel joint, as these can indicate moisture ingress into the wood core.
• Electric Propulsion Systems: Many H-20s were equipped with 2.5-kW Mastervolt electric inboard motors. The battery bank (typically two 12-volt AGMs) and the controller should be tested for capacity and charging efficiency, as replacements for these specialized systems can be costly.
• Bronze Hardware Maintenance: The H-20 uses custom Reineck bronze hardware based on original HMCo designs. While beautiful, these fittings can seize if not regularly lubricated. Check the bronze rudder head and the fractional rig's chainplates for signs of stress or verdigris buildup.
• Rigging Tensions: Given the high ballast ratio, the stainless steel standing rigging can be under significant load when sailing in high winds. The chainplate attachments and the wooden or carbon spars should be inspected for any signs of compression or hair-line fractures.

Community & Resources

The primary authority for the H-20 is Herreshoff Designs, Inc., which holds the original offsets and provides ongoing support for the class. Technical history and the evolution of the 1928 design are preserved at the Herreshoff Marine Museum in Bristol, Rhode Island, where the original half-model is part of the permanent collection. Owners often engage with the broader Herreshoff community through the museum's regattas and symposiums, which celebrate the heritage of all vessels built by the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company.

The Verdict

The Herreshoff 20 is a masterpiece of "spirit of tradition" yachting, offering the elegance of 1920s naval architecture with the structural integrity of modern epoxy construction. It is a boat for the connoisseur who values handling and pedigree over interior volume.

Pros

• Exceptional Stability: The 55% ballast ratio makes it one of the safest and most forgiving 20-footers ever designed.
• Modern Longevity: Cold-molded construction avoids the rot and maintenance issues of traditional carvel-planked wooden hulls.
• Pedigree: A genuine N.G. Herreshoff design that provides a direct link to the "Wizard of Bristol."
• Ease of Handling: Simple rig layout and self-tacking jib options make it an ideal solo daysailer.

Cons

• High Acquisition Cost: As a semi-custom build, the H-20 commands a premium price compared to production fiberglass daysailers.
• Maintenance Intensity: The abundance of bright-finished wood requires significant annual upkeep to maintain its value.
• Draft Limitations: A 3-foot 1-inch fixed draft may limit access to very shoal waters where centerboard designs might excel.