Bear

Designed and built by Manuel Nunes & Sons in 1933, this classic wooden sloop represents Depression-era craftsmanship when boat builders focused on creating seaworthy vessels that could handle serious coastal cruising. With only 69 hulls produced, the Bear stands as a relatively rare example of pre-war American boat building. At 23 feet overall with a fractional sloop rig and 258 square feet of sail area, this design strikes a practical balance between performance and comfort. The fin keel configuration with transom-hung rudder provides good tracking and maneuverability, while the substantial 2,000-pound ballast ratio ensures adequate stability for coastal adventures. Her 5,000-pound displacement creates a solid, seakindly motion that inspires confidence in choppy conditions. The Bear's comfort ratio of 31.05 indicates a relatively stiff, quick motion more suited to day sailing and weekend cruising than extended offshore passages. Her capsize screening value of 1.58 suggests good initial stability, making her appropriate for experienced sailors tackling coastal waters and protected bays. The SA/Displacement ratio of 14.16 points to moderate performance potential in light to moderate winds, typical of classic designs prioritizing seaworthiness over speed. This wooden classic appeals to traditionalists seeking an authentic sailing experience with vintage character.

No owner reviews yet — be the first to share your experience with this boat.