Rhodes Dater Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Rhodes Dater is a heavy-displacement vessel relative to its size, which dictates a sailing motion characterized by momentum and "seakindliness" rather than the agility found in modern light-displacement sportboats. With a draft of 3 feet 8 inches and a substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio, the boat tracks exceptionally well, resisting the "twitchiness" often associated with 20-footers.

In light air, the Dater requires a significant amount of sail area to overcome its wetted surface area, but it shines as the breeze freshens. According to historical design notes from the Rhodes archives, the boat was engineered to remain stiff and upright long after contemporary centerboarders of the same era would be forced to reef. The full keel provides a predictable feel on the helm, though owners often note a wide turning radius and a lack of responsiveness when backing under power—a common trait for full-keel designs of this vintage.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its diminutive 20-foot frame, the Dater features an enclosed cabin that distinguishes it from its more famous cousin, the Rhodes 19. The interior is a study in "minimalist cruising," offering two full-length settee berths that extend under the cockpit seats. Headroom is restricted to sitting height, but the use of a wide 7-foot 6-inch beam allows for a surprisingly airy feel for two occupants.

Variations of the model primarily concern the construction material and cabin configuration. The original wooden versions often featured "bright" (varnished) mahogany trim and cedar planking, while the Seaman Seacraft fiberglass versions moved toward a more utilitarian, low-maintenance aesthetic. A sibling model, often confused with the Dater, is the Rhodes 18; however, while the 18 was largely an open day-sailer available in centerboard or keel versions, the Dater was purpose-built with the raised trunk cabin to facilitate overnighting. Another close relative is the Rhodes 19, which utilizes a similar hull shape but features a different deck mold and keel configuration, eventually becoming a popular one-design racer.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Rhodes Dater must differentiate between the structural requirements of the wooden hulls and the early fiberglass units. For those considering a fiberglass Dater, the primary concern is the integrity of the deck core and the keel-to-hull joint.

• Deck Delamination: Early fiberglass boats often used plywood or balsa cores that were not always perfectly sealed. "Soft spots" around the mast step and chainplates are common and may indicate significant rot within the core.
• Keel Bolt Oxidation: On the fiberglass models, the internal ballast was often encapsulated or bolted. Inspections should focus on the "smile" at the leading edge of the keel-hull joint, which may indicate failing bolts or structural compression.
• Wooden Hull Scantlings: For wooden Daters, traditional inspections for "nail sickness" (fastener failure) and rot in the stem and horn timber are essential. Historical data suggests the tight curves of the Rhodes design can put stress on the ribs near the turn of the bilge.
• Rigging Points: The chainplates on the Dater are simple but can leak, leading to rot in the bulkheads or side decks. Buyers should look for staining on the interior liner where the shrouds meet the deck.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the Rhodes Dater is supported by a dedicated community of Philip Rhodes enthusiasts. The most prominent resource for technical data and historical verification is the Rhodes Yacht Design Foundation, which works in conjunction with the Mystic Seaport Museum to maintain the original blueprints and design notes. While there is no longer an active "Dater-specific" class association, owners often find technical support and community through broader groups like the Rhodes 19 Class Association, as many of the hardware and rigging solutions are interchangeable between the two models.

The Verdict

The Rhodes Dater is a "blue-blood" pocket cruiser that offers timeless beauty and a secure, stable ride for those who value heritage over high-speed performance.

Pros:

• Exceptional Stability: The full keel and heavy displacement make it one of the safest-feeling 20-footers in a blow.
• Classic Aesthetics: The Philip Rhodes lines ensure the boat remains a head-turner in any harbor.
• Historical Pedigree: Owning a Dater provides a direct connection to the "Golden Age" of American naval architecture.

Cons:

• Limited Headroom: The cabin is strictly for sitting and sleeping, lacking the vertical space found in modern "clutter-filled" cruisers.
• Slow in Light Air: The heavy displacement and full keel create significant drag in light wind conditions.
• Maintenance Intensity: Whether wood or early fiberglass, a boat of this age requires a committed owner to manage potential structural restoration.