Southerly 101 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Southerly 101 are dictated by its unique ballast arrangement and Dick Carter’s hull form. Unlike a traditional fin-keel yacht, the 101 carries a substantial portion of its ballast in a massive cast-iron grounding plate bolted to the hull. When the aerofoil-shaped keel is fully lowered, the boat draws approximately 6 feet 7 inches (2.01m), providing a surprisingly deep grip on the water for a 33-foot cruising boat. This results in respectable windward performance and a "stiff" feeling in a breeze.

Conversely, with the keel raised via its manual or electric winch, the draft shrinks to just 1 foot 10 inches (0.56m). While leeway increases significantly with the keel up, the boat remains stable due to the grounding plate's low center of gravity. Handling under power is predictable, though the high-volume hull and relatively light displacement for its size can make it susceptible to windage in tight marinas. According to technical documentation from the Southerly Owners Association, the yacht's ability to "surf" downwind with the keel partially retracted reduces the risk of broaching in heavy following seas, a distinct advantage over fixed-keel contemporaries.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Southerly 101 was a pioneer in the "deck saloon" layout for boats under 35 feet. By raising the dinette and the surrounding coachroof, Northshore created an interior that offers 270-degree visibility while seated—a feature that reduces the "closed-in" feeling common in traditional designs. The layout typically features a linear galley to port and a raised U-shaped dinette to starboard.

The 101 was a direct successor to the Southerly 100, and while they share a hull, the 101 featured a refined interior and, in many cases, an updated transom design. Sibling models built on this design philosophy include the larger Southerly 105, which offered an aft-cabin layout, and the later Southerly 115. Within the 101 production run, variations mainly focused on the helm station; many were equipped with a dual-steering system, allowing the skipper to pilot the boat from a protected internal position during inclement weather using a secondary throttle and wheel. The joinery is typically finished in teak, providing a robust, traditional maritime aesthetic that has aged well compared to more modern, minimalist builds.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Southerly 101 requires a specialized survey focusing on the lifting keel mechanism, as this is the boat’s most complex and critical component.

• Keel Pivot and Pennants: The stainless steel wire (pennant) used to lift the keel must be inspected for "meating" or fraying. The pivot pin, which secures the keel to the hull, can experience wear over decades, leading to a "thumping" sound when sailing in a chop.
• Grounding Plate Corrosion: The cast-iron plate is exposed to the elements and can develop rust if the epoxy coating is breached. While rarely a structural failure point, it requires regular maintenance to prevent scaling.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many Northshore builds of this era, the deck uses a balsa core for stiffness. Buyers should check for soft spots around stanchion bases and the mast step, which may indicate water ingress and core rot.
• Rudder Bearings: Because the rudder is designed to be semi-balanced and relatively deep to maintain control when the keel is up, it places significant stress on the lower bearings. Excessive play in the wheel often points to worn bushings.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Southerly Owners Association (SOA), which maintains an extensive archive of Dick Carter’s original drawings and Northshore’s technical manuals. This community is particularly valuable for owners seeking advice on the hydraulic or manual winch systems used in the 101. Additionally, the Northshore Shipyard in Chichester, though evolved from its original form, remains a touchstone for the brand’s history and parts availability.

The Verdict

The Southerly 101 is an ideal vessel for the adventurous coastal cruiser who refuses to be limited by the tide. While it lacks the raw speed of a dedicated racing yacht, its ability to "beach" and its light, airy interior make it a superior choice for family cruising.

Pros:

• Unrivaled shallow-draft capability and the ability to dry out.
• Excellent visibility from the raised deck-saloon dinette.
• High build quality from a reputable British shipyard.
• Inside steering option for comfortable foul-weather cruising.

Cons:

• Increased maintenance requirements for the lifting keel system.
• Significant leeway when sailing upwind with the keel retracted.
• Age-related issues like deck-core moisture are common in 1980s hulls.