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Sailboat Specifications

Drascombe Longboat

Gaff Head Ketch · Centerboard (Trunk)

Designed by John L. Watkinson · Built by Honner Marine Ltd. (Uk) · First built 1971

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LOA 21.75 ft  ·  Beam 6.58 ft  ·  Displacement 1,100.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 169.00 ft²  ·  Gaff Head Ketch  ·  Centerboard (Trunk)
About the Drascombe Longboat Sailboat

Designed by John L. Watkinson in 1971, this classic British coastal cruiser has earned a devoted following among sailors who appreciate traditional character combined with practical versatility. The Longboat's gaff-rigged ketch configuration and centerboard design make it an excellent choice for shallow-water exploration and coastal cruising, while its relatively light 1,100-pound displacement keeps it manageable for small crews or single-handed sailing. Built by Honner Marine Ltd. in the UK, approximately 600 of these distinctive boats have found homes worldwide over five decades of production. The fiberglass construction ensures durability while maintaining the classic lines that define the Drascombe aesthetic. With a comfort ratio of 7.36, the Longboat strikes a balance between stability and performance, making it well-suited for protected waters and moderate coastal conditions. The boat's shallow 4.16-foot draft opens up countless anchorages and allows for beach launching, a hallmark of the Drascombe philosophy. Its 169 square feet of sail area provides adequate power for leisurely coastal passages, while the ketch rig offers flexible sail handling options. This is an ideal boat for sailors seeking traditional character, shoal-water capability, and the charm of gaff-rigged sailing in a manageable package.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 21.75 ft / 6.63 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 17.50 ft / 5.33 m
Beam 6.58 ft / 2.01 m
Max Draft 4.16 ft / 1.27 m
Min Draft 1.00 ft / 0.30 m
Displacement 1,100.00 lb / 499 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 169.00 ft² / 15.70 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Centerboard (Trunk)
Rigging Type Gaff head Ketch
Construction FG
Designer John L. Watkinson
Builder Honner Marine Ltd. (UK)
First Built 1971
Number Built 600
Associations Drascombe Association
Related Sailboats Devon Coaster · Seal 22 · Seal Sinbad · Victoire 22 · Noelex 22
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Drascombe Longboat's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Drascombe Longboat has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 25.42. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Drascombe Longboat's comfort ratio?

The Drascombe Longboat has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 7.36. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Drascombe Longboat safe for offshore sailing?

The Drascombe Longboat has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.55. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Drascombe Longboat?

The theoretical hull speed of the Drascombe Longboat is 5.61 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Drascombe Longboat weigh?

The Drascombe Longboat has a displacement of 1,100.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 21.75 ft.

Who designed the Drascombe Longboat?

The Drascombe Longboat was designed by John L. Watkinson, first built in 1971.