Small Point OD Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Small Point OD is frequently described by traditionalists as a "momentum boat." With a full keel and a displacement that leans toward the heavier side for a 21-foot daysailer, the hull tracks with remarkable stability. Burgess utilized his expertise in fluid dynamics to ensure the boat maintains a balanced helm even when pressed hard under its fractional sloop rig. According to historical fleet records maintained by the Small Point Yacht Club, the design was intended to be "lively but stiff," allowing younger sailors to transition into a more sophisticated keelboat without the flightiness of a centerboard dinghy.

In light air, the boat requires a delicate touch to keep its wetted surface from dragging, but it excels in a breeze. The deep, narrow hull slices through waves rather than pounding over them, a trait common to Burgess designs of that era. Handling is characterized by a high degree of "feel" through the tiller; owners often note that the boat communicates its trim needs clearly through the rudder pressure. While it lacks the planing potential of modern sportboats, its ability to point high and maintain speed through a tack makes it a formidable tactical racer in restricted waters.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Small Point OD’s cultural footprint is deeply tied to the Small Point Yacht Club and the heritage of Maine wooden boatbuilding. While it does not appear in mainstream cinema, it is a staple of maritime photography and local history books documenting the Burgess legacy. The boat is often cited in discussions regarding the "Golden Age" of American yacht design, representing a transition point where racing boats began to prioritize scientific hull forms over mere aesthetic tradition. Its enduring presence in the Phippsburg area serves as a living museum of Starling Burgess’s smaller-scale genius.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners of a Small Point OD must approach the purchase as a stewardship of a wooden artifact rather than a maintenance-free hobby. Because these boats are predominantly cedar-on-oak construction, they are subject to the standard vulnerabilities of vintage wooden craft.

• Frame and Floor Timbers: Check for "sistering" or rot in the oak frames, particularly near the turn of the bilge where moisture tends to collect.
• Keel Bolts: As these boats age, the integrity of the keel bolts securing the lead ballast to the wooden deadwood should be verified. Owners on local Maine forums often report that original bolts may require replacement to prevent "weeping" at the hull-keel joint.
• Chainplates and Rig Tension: The fractional rig exerts significant localized stress on the wooden deck beams and hull sides. Inspect the areas around the chainplates for signs of wood compression or water ingress.
• Mast Step: The mast step is a known collection point for fresh water and salt; ensure the timber here is sound and has not softened over decades of service.

Community & Resources

The primary authority for this model is the Small Point Yacht Club, which has served as the guardian of the class since its inception. The club maintains the official registry and coordinates the racing schedule that keeps the fleet active. Technical support for restorations is typically found through specialized Maine yards such as Hodgdon Yacht Services or traditional shipwrights in the Midcoast region who are familiar with Burgess’s construction specifications.

The Verdict

The Small Point OD is a connoisseur’s daysailer, offering a direct link to the brilliance of W. Starling Burgess. It is not a boat for those seeking modern convenience or fiberglass durability, but for the sailor who values pedigree, aesthetic beauty, and a soulful connection to the water.

Pros

• Exceptional aesthetic appeal with classic Burgess lines.
• Predictable and stable handling in heavy chop.
• A prestigious and tight-knit racing community in Maine.
• Balanced helm that provides excellent feedback to the sailor.

Cons

• High maintenance requirements associated with traditional wooden construction.
• Limited geographic density, making it difficult to find hulls outside of New England.
• Lacks the speed and "thrill factor" of modern carbon-fiber daysailers.