Rhodes 19 Information, Review, Specs

The hull's versatility led to the development of several notable siblings. The most prominent is the O'Day Mariner 19, which utilizes the same Philip Rhodes hull but features a larger cabin trunk and a self-bailing cockpit, designed specifically for overnight pocket-cruising. While the Rhodes 19 is primarily an open-cockpit boat with a small cuddy for storage, the Mariner variant caters to those seeking more shelter. Both models share the same hydrodynamic properties, but the Rhodes 19 remains the preferred choice for those focused on competitive racing and pure sailing aesthetics.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Rhodes 19 is frequently described as a "little big boat" due to its exceptional stability and predictable handling characteristics. Unlike lightweight modern dinghies that require constant hiking to remain upright, the Rhodes 19—particularly the keel version—feels like a much larger keelboat. With a displacement of approximately 1,325 pounds for the keel model, it carries significant momentum through tacks and manages chop with a level of "sea-kindliness" rarely found in sub-20-foot vessels.

The boat was produced in two distinct underwater configurations: a fixed-keel version drawing 3' 3" and a centerboard version drawing just 10 inches with the board up. According to the Rhodes 19 Class Association, the keel version is the standard for one-design racing in traditional strongholds like Marblehead and Chicago, offering superior tracking and a higher degree of safety in gusty conditions. The centerboard version, while slightly less stiff, is highly sought after by sailors in thin-water environments like the Chesapeake Bay or the Florida Keys. Under sail, the boat is remarkably balanced; when properly trimmed, it exhibits a light touch on the tiller, making it an ideal platform for teaching novices the nuances of sail trim and helm balance.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Rhodes 19 has carved out a significant cultural footprint within the American sailing community, particularly in the Northeast. It is a staple of the prestigious Marblehead Race Week and has been featured in numerous sailing publications as the "gold standard" for community sailing programs. Its reputation as a robust trainer has made it a common sight in maritime academies and yacht club junior programs for over half a century. The class is also noted for its resilience; many original O'Day-built hulls from the 1960s are still actively campaigned, a testament to the durability of the Philip Rhodes design.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a vintage Rhodes 19, the primary concern is the integrity of the deck and cockpit sole. Like many O'Day products of the era, the decks were often constructed with a balsa wood core. If hardware has been improperly bedded over the decades, water intrusion can lead to localized "soft spots" or widespread delamination. A thorough "tap test" with a plastic hammer is recommended to identify dead sounds indicating core rot.

The mast step is another critical inspection point. In older models, the compression of the mast can sometimes cause the supporting structure beneath the deck to sag or crack, particularly if the boat has been raced hard with high rig tension. Buyers should also examine the "smile"—the joint where the lead keel meets the fiberglass hull stub. While some hairline cracking in the fairing compound is common, significant gaps or evidence of weeping rust may indicate loose or corroded keel bolts. On centerboard models, the centerboard trunk and the pivot pin should be checked for wear; a rattling board or a leaking trunk gasket are common maintenance items that require the boat to be hauled for repair.

Community & Resources

The Rhodes 19 is supported by one of the most organized and welcoming class associations in the United States. The Rhodes 19 Class Association maintains a comprehensive database of technical specifications, tuning guides, and a registry of hull numbers. This organization is instrumental in maintaining the strict "One Design" rules that ensure a boat built in 1965 can still compete fairly against a brand-new model from Stuart Marine. Additionally, because of the boat's popularity, sailmakers and parts suppliers offer specialized Rhodes 19 inventories, making it one of the easiest classic boats to maintain and upgrade.

The Verdict

The Rhodes 19 remains a superlative choice for sailors who value timeless design over contemporary "wedge" styling. It offers a bridge between the high-maintenance elegance of wooden classics and the practical utility of modern fiberglass.

Pros:

• Exceptional Stability: The heavy keel and wide beam make it one of the safest and most forgiving boats in its size class.
• Active Class Support: A vibrant one-design community ensures that the boat retains its resale value and competitive relevance.
• Production Longevity: With new parts and hulls still available from Stuart Marine, owners are never "orphaned" by a lack of manufacturer support.

Cons:

• Weight: At over 1,300 pounds for the keel version, it requires a substantial trailer and a capable tow vehicle compared to lighter 19-footers.
• Cored Deck Maintenance: Older O'Day hulls are prone to deck softness if they have been neglected.
• Limited Accommodation: As an open daysailer, it offers no realistic overnighting capability, serving strictly as a daylight vessel.