Design and Construction
The Navigator was built in solid fiberglass with iron ballast and 1,953 pounds displacement. Her hull speed is 5.48 knots, displacement-to-length ratio 186.19, capsize ratio 2.42, comfort ratio 11.72. Newbridge grew from Leisurecraft under Don Whistance before Ron Lunney; the Navigator was a late-1970s Tucker product. Original glass boats were built in 1980.
Rig and Handling
Standard rig was a masthead sloop. The Mk. III could optionally be junk rigged with a lug sail. The centerboard raised needs under two feet, opening shallow creeks and drying moorings.
Accommodations
The cabin is spacious for her length, a trait cited alongside performance and price. At 19 feet with 7.55-foot beam she delivered volume above her station among trailerable cruisers.
Known Issues
Newbridge Boats Ltd. was liquidated in 1987, rebranded N.B. Yachts, moved from Bridport, Dorset to Chard, Somerset; Navigator production carried three more years to January 1990. The Newbridge and Venturer Owners Association formed, ceased April 2018.
Refits and Ownership
Owners formed the Newbridge and Venturer Owners Association, closing April 2018. The Navigators were followed by a similar larger Venturer. Typical refit centers on rigging, centerboard gear, trailer gear.
The Verdict
A modest pocket cruiser with roomy cabin and affordable price; caveats are institutional, not structural.
Pros
- Spacious interior for 19-foot trailerable cruiser
- Affordable, popular, simple masthead sloop
- Centerboard 1.97 ft up for shallow access
- Optional Mk. III junk rig for short-handed sailing
- Solid glass construction
Cons
- Builder liquidated 1987, ceased Jan 1990
- Owner association dissolved April 2018
- Limited post-production spares continuity
