Designed by L.F. Herreshoff in 1940, this classic wooden sloop represents the pinnacle of traditional New England small boat craftsmanship. With its distinctive long keel and transom-hung rudder configuration, the Buzzards Bay 14 embodies the timeless aesthetic and seaworthy characteristics that made Herreshoff designs legendary among sailing enthusiasts. At 17.25 feet overall with a 14-foot waterline, this fractional sloop carries 160 square feet of sail area efficiently distributed for balanced handling. The substantial 1,700-pound displacement includes 800 pounds of ballast, creating exceptional stability for a boat of this size. The generous beam of 5.83 feet provides comfortable cockpit space while maintaining the hull's elegant proportions. Built for coastal cruising and daysailing, the Buzzards Bay 14 excels in protected waters and moderate conditions. Its long keel design tracks beautifully and provides predictable handling characteristics that build confidence in developing sailors. The comfort ratio of 16.74 indicates a motion that's gentle for extended sailing sessions, while the capsize screening value of 1.96 reflects its intended use in sheltered waters rather than offshore passages. This design appeals particularly to traditionalists who appreciate wooden boat craftsmanship and the refined sailing qualities that only a Herreshoff hull can deliver.
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What is the Buzzards Bay 14's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Buzzards Bay 14 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.01. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Buzzards Bay 14's comfort ratio?
The Buzzards Bay 14 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 16.74. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Buzzards Bay 14 safe for offshore sailing?
The Buzzards Bay 14 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.96. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Buzzards Bay 14?
The theoretical hull speed of the Buzzards Bay 14 is 5.01 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Buzzards Bay 14 weigh?
The Buzzards Bay 14 has a displacement of 1,700.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 17.25 ft.
Who designed the Buzzards Bay 14?
The Buzzards Bay 14 was designed by L. F. Herreshoff, first built in 1940.