sceptre 41 sailboat review

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Let's talk motorsailers/pilothouses

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I'm looking for ideas. Here's the parameters: Motorsailer/pilothouse. must have inside helm. Draft less than 5' Under $50K What would you buy and why? go.  

Probably mostly a BC kinda boat, but if you can find a Cooper you might want to take a good look. Have done a delivery in a 32 and believe that they had several models in the mid-30's size range. Solid boat. LB  

What length? not that I personally would want a boat with less than 5' of draft depending upon where I am going. Gulf, Fisher, nauticat are among a few that I know of with what you describe. Jeanneau has a model or two from the mid 80s that might fit your need. I would need to look it up at the owners site to verify/remember the model name. The few I have seen fit the $$ amount, not sure about the rest of the requirements. marty  

blt2ski said: Gulf, Fisher, nauticat are among a few that I know of with what you describe. Click to expand...

Pilothouse sailboats are kind of like "condoms" for sailing. I believe in going commando.  

Which is okay if you're undercanvassed.  

I don't think you'll see many Nauticats for that price.. Most of the pilothouse boats are larger boats, and as such are going to be out of your price range. IIRC, Cape Dory made a small pilot house boat, but it was a pretty rare beastie.  

Okay, here's the list of possibilities that has sorta popped up: Capital yachts Gulf 27 Capital yachts Gulf 32 Fisher 30 Willard Vega Horizon Fales Navigator Anybody have any thoughts on any of these?  

Faster said: In the Cooper line there was a 316, a 353, 416 and 502. Few 50s were built and you'd likely only find a 316 or a rough 353 under 50K. Not bad looking for a pilothouse... even the 316 is nicely drawn, but necessarily a bit bulky at that size. The cockpits are smallish, the deckhouses large and so sightlines are fairly compromised from the outside helm. These are relatively beamy hulls but with narrow ends. Fin keels and skeg rudders IIRC. US yachts bought the molds and briefly produced the US 35 and US 42.. not sure how many (or how few) were built and sold. Another short-lived outfit bought the molds of the 316 and a couple of Northwest 32s were built. The last had to be owner finished, we saw it this past summer and he did a nice job of it. Click to expand...

THere is a Gulf 27, not sure about a 29, and there is a 32 to my knowledge. as there is a 27 and 32 at my marina. Then again, if you can afford a few ie 4 $50K bills, I know of a sceptre for sail here in Edmonds wa. If you can find a Jeanneau Fantasia, they have the feel of a MS< altho not a true pilot house design. Marty  

Small Gulf Motorsailors I thought I wanted one of these for a while when I was shopping so I dug quite a bit into their pedigree. Most likely story I have been able to piece together is the Newport 27 (NOT 28) hull mold was used to make the Gulf 27, and the same hull was extended to make the 29. Newport 27 was an ok little boat but doesn't set the world on fire performance wise, and the Gulf is heavier. Still neat, maybe I'll get one when I'm 80. (and transplant the pilothouse deck onto a faster boat!)  

It was as I recall, and you mention, a newport/cc hull with a pilot house deckhousing on it. There may be a review in Good old boat in the future of a 27, i am recalling a 32 was also done recently. From the fellow that has the 27, there is a reasonably active owners site, or email list too. marty  

jrd22 said: Another great boat is Bilgewaters- I think it's a Truant 33? Click to expand...

You west coasters have a lot more choices then i see here in the east. Thanks for the input. TDW, Neptune help me, I am starting to get seriously intrigued by a Navigator or a Willard. yeah they are kind of an odd duck, but it's an interesting package. What brought this brainfart about was running the numbers from the logbook over the past three seasons. Turns out, we motor as often as we sail, and there is always some great sailing to be had in the spring and fall, providing you have some decent weather protection. Regarding draft, Long Point bay tends to get pretty skinny in the fall. Anybody in our marina who draws more than 5.5- 6' is usually hauling out by the middle of september, because the depth begins to get questionable. Which is too bad, because there was some really really great sailing right up until the end of october this year. I don't race, so speed and handling and pointing ability are not at the top of my priority list. I cruise. I tend to cruise slow. I ain't in no hurry because, as far as i am concerned, like a lot of us, i am already there.  

Heh-heh. Well played, bl!! [cue golfclap]  

And here's mine A 1980 Ta Shing Flying Dutchman Baba 35 Pilot House, designed by Bob Perry; one of about seven in the world. The thing I really like about this pilothouse is how well it integrates into the shape of the boat and the cabin. I think it's one of the best I've seen. As I was buying Perry's book on yacht design, the woman at Armchair Sailor asked, "do you have a boat?" "Yes," I replied. "We pick it up tomorrow. It's a Baba 35 Pilot house." "I hate pilot house boats," she said. I looked at her and smiled... "Well, I didn't buy the boat for you." We got the keys yesterday after a nine month search. Brigadoon has a new home, nestled against the end of Tillicum Marina, on Lake Union. I surprised my broker by wanting to move the boat today, just as a storm system was leaving. We had a dicey moment at the marina but, once we got out into the lake, it was a pretty easy shot to our slip. We took no pictures today. There was too much to do to fumble with a camera. A good friend, who is making a documentary about live aboard folk, did come along and videotape our maiden voyage. Brigadoon now sits against the doc. She's still afloat (we checked after a celebratory dinner at 9 Million in Fremont) last we left her. I'm sure I'll go by and check on her daily. We return Thursday night to settle some more things and plan on camping out on her this weekend. There's much to do. I'll be busy re-bedding chain plate covers, stopping a few small leaks, sorting out the entire boat, building a big todo list, scheduling some engine maintenance, and transitioning to moving aboard the weekend of the 13th of November. It's taken eight long months, looking at possibly a hundred boats, talking to tens of brokers, until we found Brigadoon. Thanks for listening and, as I said to Kerry tonight, "Whew! Done." "No," she replied. "We've just begun." Gosh I love her. The boat isn't bad either. Picasa Web Albums - donn.christianson - Brigadoon  

blackjenner said: Brigadoon has a new home, nestled against the end of Tillicum Marina, on Lake Union. Picasa Web Albums - donn.christianson - Brigadoon Click to expand...

Nice boat, blacky! Congratulations. The far east built boats sure have some lovely woodwork... and a damn lot of it!  

The budget, man, the budget! $50K. Tops. Even at that I may need to sell an organ.  

bljones said: The budget, man, the budget! $50K. Tops. Even at that I may need to sell an organ. Click to expand...

Black - dude, nice Baba!!! She does look super cozy, stout and capable - and there's a lot to be said for that. Perry is definitely the man. Is that a Gibson by the bulkhead? Nice! Now, Dog, baby, I've sailed a tri (a Corsair) at 17 knots - and, granted, it was fun. So I'm not in denial about what multis "can do". I'm talking about the LOOK of the boat. And I'm just saying a tri looks like a freakin' yardsale for hulls. And multis are a little wimpy in the snot. Just ask Tony B.  

Gotta agree with smacky on this one... :laugher :laugher :laugher That thing is hideous.  

Please, Please make it go away!!!!!!!!!!!  

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Review of Sceptre 41

Basic specs..

The boat is typically equipped with an inboard Yanmar 4JHTE diesel engine at 45.0 hp (33 kW), which gives a max speed about 6.5 knots.

Sailing characteristics

This section covers widely used rules of thumb to describe the sailing characteristics. Please note that even though the calculations are correct, the interpretation of the results might not be valid for extreme boats.

What is Capsize Screening Formula (CSF)?

The capsize screening value for Sceptre 41 is 1.82, indicating that this boat could - if evaluated by this formula alone - be accepted to participate in ocean races.

What is Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed?

The theoretical maximal speed of a displacement boat of this length is 8.0 knots. The term "Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed" is widely used even though a boat can sail faster. The term shall be interpreted as above the theoretical speed a great additional power is necessary for a small gain in speed.

The immersion rate is defined as the weight required to sink the boat a certain level. The immersion rate for Sceptre 41 is about 283 kg/cm, alternatively 1588 lbs/inch. Meaning: if you load 283 kg cargo on the boat then it will sink 1 cm. Alternatively, if you load 1588 lbs cargo on the boat it will sink 1 inch.

Sailing statistics

This section is statistical comparison with similar boats of the same category. The basis of the following statistical computations is our unique database with more than 26,000 different boat types and 350,000 data points.

What is Motion Comfort Ratio (MCR)?

What is L/B (Length Beam Ratio)?

What is Displacement Length Ratio?

What is SA/D (Sail Area Displacement ratio)?

Maintenance

Are your sails worn out? You might find your next sail here: Sails for Sale

If you need to renew parts of your running rig and is not quite sure of the dimensions, you may find the estimates computed below useful.

This section shown boat owner's changes, improvements, etc. Here you might find inspiration for your boat.

Do you have changes/improvements you would like to share? Upload a photo and describe what to look for.

We are always looking for new photos. If you can contribute with photos for Sceptre 41 it would be a great help.

If you have any comments to the review, improvement suggestions, or the like, feel free to contact us . Criticism helps us to improve.

The Sceptre 41 is a 41.0ft cutter designed by Hein Driehuyzen and built in fiberglass by Scepter Yachts Ltd. (CAN) since 1982.

The Sceptre 41 is a moderate weight sailboat which is a reasonably good performer. It is very stable / stiff and has a good righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a bluewater cruising boat. The fuel capacity is average. There is a good water supply range.

Sceptre 41 for sale elsewhere on the web:

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• Sailboat Guide

1982 Sceptre 41 Pilothouse

• Description

Seller's Description

The Sceptre 41 was one of the first fiberglass boats to successfully merge a pilot house plan with a seaworthy design capable of safely cruising the worlds oceans. Her designer, Hein Driehuyzen, knew the basics of a good cruising boat: tankage low in the boat with good capacity; a design engineered to accommodate all the stores and equipment required for an extended cruise; materials and construction methods that last in an often harsh marine environment; a hull shape that is comfortable in a seaway; and a sail plan that is versatile and easily handled by a cruising couple.

‘Tryste’ is designed for comfort on long voyages. Her pilothouse provides protection in adverse conditions, From the moment you step below you feel at home. The generous galley is to port at the base of the companionway, with a generous aft cabin to starboard. Just forward of the aft cabin is the dining area, with raised seating providing sightlines all around through her many windows.

To port, and just forward of the galley, is the nav station and lower helm. Everything is here to manage the vessel from the safety and comfort of the interior. Amid ships, down a step, is a FabAll diesel heater and bench seat. A cozy place on a cold day.

Slightly forward of the mast and to starboard is a large head with separate shower. And in the bow the owner’s stateroom provides an abundance of storage in hanging lockers and drawers, along with a private seating area.

Beautiful teak and holly sole runs throughout her interior, and the cabinetry is of a very high quality.

Currently on the hard, she is available to be seen in Bowmanville, ON

Equipment: Dimensions: LOA: 41 ft 0 in Beam: 12 ft 8 in LWL: 36 ft 0 in Draft: 6 ft 1 in Displacement: 21500 lbs Ballast: 8700 lbs

Engine: Nissan SD22 4 Cyl Diesel Engine 55HP

Tankage: Water - 230 Gallons in 4 tanks Fuel - 80 Gallons in 2 tanks Waste - 15 Gallons

Electrical: Inverter/Charger - Heart 1200W

Sails: Main - North Furling Main Furling Genoa - 135%, Mack Sails 2013 lightly used #3 - 110% Hank On to Solent Stay, 1992 lightly used Storm Trisail - Hank On to Solent Stay, 1992 Lightly used Solent Stay - Removable, Mounts just behind furler. Hank on #3 and storm sails. Whisker Pole - Forespar Extendable

Winches: Primary - Lewmar #48 Secondary - Lewmar #40 Halyard Winches (2) - Lewmar Wire Reel Halyard Winch - Lewmar #40

Exterior Features: BBQ Swim Ladder - Transom Boarding Ladders Dodger - New 2017 Bimini - New 2017 Full Enclosure Electric Windlass - Nilsson

Instruments: Plotter- Garmin 176C Plotter- Raymarine e7D VHF- Icom M402AutoPilot Wind - DataMarine Speed- DataMarine Radar - Raytheon R10

Interior Features: Stereo - Sony AM/FM/CD/MP3 TV- LG Flat Panel with external antenna Clock-Shatz Barometer-Shatz Diesel Heater- FabAll

Galley: Refrigeration- Nova Kool Propane Stove - Hillerange 3 Burner Convection Oven - GE Pressure Water Hot Water

Additional: Pedestal Cover (2019), Winch Covers, Cockpit Cushions, Tank Monitor, Spare Engine Parts, 8 Pad Steel Folding Cradle,

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Thanks to ‘Adelie’ for providing additional information.

This listing is presented by SailboatListings.com . Visit their website for more information or to contact the seller.

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Sceptre 43 Atlantic

• By Quentin Warren
• Updated: August 5, 2002

scep43at.gif

In what may be one of this industry’s more agreeable cases of déjà vu, the Newport (RI) boat show last September unveiled a nicely turned out rendition of a Pacific Northwest cruiser already well regarded, this time in the guise of the Sceptre 43 Atlantic. She is a rework of designer Hein Driehuyzen’s popular Sceptre 41, with two feet added to the stern to increase the effective waterline length, elongate the profile and provide space for a convenient sugar scoop transom. Preserved are the earlier boat’s joyful sailing qualities, strong construction pedigree and inside steering capability.

The 41 was a worthy vessel in her own right (see Cruising World June ’86, March ’92). The notion that you can incorporate a separate steering station below and avoid stacking the profile with a raised pilothouse or invoking the motorsailer moniker is fetching, especially in a boat designed for off-season or upper-latitude cruising. The 43, even sleeker with her added length, offers the same advantage. The beauty these days is that given the versatility and dependability of modern autopilot systems, you can opt for an electronic station in the saloon in lieu of another wheel, which allows the main cabin to remain in essence an unadulterated living space when it’s not being used as a command post.

Currently Sceptre Yachts is in the very able hands of Heather Rouse and her husband Jeff, an Australian-born shipwright whose involvement with the construction of these boats dates back to hull #14 of the original 41. The hull is solid glass, the deck cored with Baltek balsa. The keel is a prolonged fin, the rudder skeg-hung with three bearings — at the deck, just above the waterline and at the shoe. Primary steering in the aft cockpit is by way of Edson chain, cable and quadrant. The entry is fine, and hull sections are fairly deep to provide for good payload-carrying ability and a bilge that’s deep enough to accept milk crates. The installation of systems is first-class, stressing accessibility, redundancy and equipment right off the top shelf.

The rig is a custom-built two-spreader keel-stepped affair with cutter capability, fore and aft lowers and a set of “fixed” running backs. The chain plates are secured mechanically to four-inch aluminum pipe that runs fore and aft on each side of the hull, carried by massive fiberglass knees.

Our experience aboard the 43 Atlantic topped off a sparkling day on Long Island Sound last fall. True to form, the vessel is solid as a rock and quite beautifully put together abovedeck and below. In a steady 12 knots of true wind she jogged along to weather at 6 to 7 knots and remained remarkably nimble at the helm for a boat so designed to tackle serious bluewater cruising. On a broad reach she slid home beneath an asymmetrical kite flown off a conventional spinnaker pole that stores vertically on the mast when not in use. The 43 is balanced, powerful and responsive.

With her enhanced teak-finished interior, she’s also elegant and inviting. Here’s a boat with a million little details that make sense and a long-distance track record that’s been proven many times over. Pricing for the upscale Atlantic series is in the $330,000-$350,000 range. Contact Heather Rouse at Sceptre (1993) Ltd, 23-12491, No. 2 Road, Richmond, BC V7E 2C3, Canada; phone (604) 241-9331. Or Jake Leo at Northrop & Johnson, 100 Essex Street, PO Box 207, West Mystic, CT 06388; phone (860) 536-8087.

Sceptre 43 Atlantic Specifications:

• Beam: 12’8″
• Draft 6’1″ (deep): 5’9″ (shoal)
• Disp: 21,500 lbs.
• Ballast: 8,700 lbs.
• Sail Area (100%): 774 sq.ft.
• Mast above: DWL 59’0″
• Disp/Length: 206
• SA/Disp 16.01
• Designer: Hein Driehuyzen
• More: 41 - 50 ft , before 2000 , Bluewater Cruising , keelboat , monohull , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats
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The Sceptre 41 is one of the most respected and sensible cruising sailboats ever built. With the raised dinette, you can take advantage of the beautiful scenery without suffering in the elements. The galley is optimally placed near the companionway and on level with the dinette salon area. The cockpit is well-sheltered behind a windshield and canvas dodger. A walk-through transom with swim platform makes for easy access to the water, a dock or dinghy. Tankage for fuel and water are generous and storage space, both on deck and below, is abundant. Top quality construction details and materials have enabled these boats to hold their value over the years. While many Sceptre’s have remained in the Northwest, others have ventured forth, circumnavigating, rounding the great Capes and providing safe, speedy and comfortable passage for their crews.

A good measure of a cruiser is how many are still sailing and kept in outstanding condition. In that regard, the Sceptre 41/43s are exceptional. We have brokered many Sceptres and watched them head out for worldwide cruising. Moreover, there is a very active owners’ group that support each other in both boat repair and cruising plans, and they eagerly embrace newcomers.

Waypoint has already had an eventful life, having done a 3-year circumnavigation with her first owners. Her third owners kept her in Alaska for several years. Excellent maintenance records and serious offshore gear would provide a good platform for long-term or short-term cruising.

• Custom arch for solar panels, radar, antennae
• Cutter rig with intermediate forestay
• Hood Stoway in-mast furling
• Monitor self-steering (not currently installed)
• MaxProp (currently not installed)
• Electric halyard winch
• Full cockpit enclosure
• Extra fuel capacity

Interior Accommodations

The  interior joinery  is of solid oiled teak and teak veneers. The overhead is removable white vinyl over marine ply with teak battens. There are teak handrails on the overhead and port side. The sole is solid teak and holly over marine plywood. There are 110V outlets, overhead and reading lights throughout.

Starting forward is a  master stateroom  with an offset double berth. There are reading lights and an overhead light. Shelves run along the hull sides, below the deck. Below the bunk, there are three drawers. A very large hanging locker is adjacent the doorway to port. A small dressing seat is also to port. Two opening ports in the hull sides and one large opening overhead hatch provide natural light and ventilation. Ensuite access is provided to the head/shower.

A passageway leads to the raised salon area. To starboard is the  head and separate shower . The shower is forward with a teak grating, shower curtain and overhead light. There is a seat for showers underway although there is ample headroom to shower standing up. The head is trimmed with varnished teak and has a sink, mirror, storage cabinets, teak towel bars and a teak grating on the sole. The  passageway  to port has very organized storage in two drawers, two lockers and a hanging locker.

The  raised salon  area is up one step. To starboard, an “U” shaped dinette on a raised platform affords excellent outside visibility while seated. Storage drawers, lockers and cabinets are outboard and under the settee. To port is a pilot station with a pedestal chair, allowing forward views over the bow, while standing watch inside.  An electrical guage/switch panel is outboard of the helm. A navigation station is aft of the helm with a swiveling armchair, chart table and chart drawer and storage cabinets. Aft of the dinette to starboard is a hanging wet locker with drain to the bilge.

To port of the companionway is the  galley . To starboard is an enclosed  aft stateroom . This space has sink, mirror, two reading lights, overhead light, hanging locker and double berth and an opening port in the hull side for ventilation. There are four steps up the companionway to the cockpit.

• (2) Captain’s chairs in main cabin (new 2023)
• Force 10 3-burner stove & oven
• Sharp microwave
• Nova Kool refrigerator and freezer (2 compressors)
• Deep double stainless steel sinks
• Fold-out trash bin
• Top-loading fridge/freezer space with sliding acrylic shelves
• Pressurized water system
• Tank tender capacity monitor
• Balmar bulkhead mounted diesel heater with stack fan
• Espar Forced Air heating (currently inoperable)
• (4) Hella fans
• Bug screens
• (3) opening ports in aft cabin
• (2) opening ports in galley
• LG DVD player
• Schatz ship’s clock and barometer
• Pioneer MOSFET 50 Wx4 stereo
• Panasonic speakers
• Infinity subwoofer
• (3) reading lamps in forward cabin
• (2) reading lamps in aft cabin
• (7) reading lamps in main cabin
• PUR Power Survivor 80 II watermaker (pickled, current owner has not used)
• Torrid 10-gallon hot water tank
• Raritan marine head with 25 gallon holding tank, Y valve, deck pump out, and overboard discharge

Hull and Deck

This traditional aft cockpit deck design features a modestly sized cockpit with a walk-through transom. Granny bars at the mast provide security on deck. A full dodger/bimini/cockpit enclosure makes the modestly sized cockpit comfortable on rainy Northwest sunny Mexican days.

The extra tall solid stern pulpit wraps around the cockpit and features a built-in rack for the liferaft. This sensible arrangement frees valuable space aboard while keeping the liferaft fully accessible in an emergency.

Another feature left over from the circumnavigation is the custom arch. Again, this keeps vital gear such as radar off the mast, but at a proper height, and is an excellent place to mount the various antennae and solar panels of a modern cruiser.

• Custom arch for solar, radar, antennae
• Custom rail rack on stern pulpit  for liferaft
• Slotted aluminum toerail
• Edson binnacle and engine controls
• Teak cockpit table
• (6) mooring cleats
• Dodger/bimini/side panels for full enclosure
• Maxwell 1500 Windlass
• Bruce 20kg anchor
• ~250’ feet 3/8” anchor chain
• Spare Bruce anchor and rode
• Stockless anchor mounted on stern rail
• Lewmar traveler
• Genoa tracks
• Harken headsail furler
• Harken staysail furler
• (2) Lewmar 43 winches on mast
• (4) Spinlock 0814 stoppers on mast
• (2) Lewmar 52 ST primary winches
• Spinlock stopper for headsail furling
• (2) Lewmar 30ST winches on cabintop
• Lewmar 40ST on cabintop
• Lewmar 40ST electric on cabintop
• Lewmar extendable whisker pole
• (3) 13” Lewmar hatches
• 4’10” Lewmar foredeck hatch
• Multiple harness attachment points in cockpit
• (2) Fusion Speakers in cockpit
• (10) Spinlock stoppers on cabintop
• (4) Spinlock stoppers on mast
• (4) Dorade vents
• Manual bilge pump in cockpit (needs repair)
• Dickinson Sea-B-Que
• Bottomsider cockpit cushions
• Rule 360 GPH bilge pump
• Rule 2000 GPH bilge pump
• Rule 3700 GPH bilge pump
• Fusion speakers in cockpit

Electronics and Navigation

• Raymarine C120 charplotter/radar at cockpit helm
• Raymarine RD424 24” 4kw radome
• 6” Gemini compass on binnacle (needs repair)
• Raytheon Ray 410 Loud hailer
• Kenyon Nav Sounder depth sounder
• Raymarine T40 Autohelm
• Standard Horizon Matrix AIS/GPS/VHF
• Raymarine ST60 speed, depth and wind instruments
• Garmin GPS 128
• Aquameter compass at inside helm
• ICOM IC M600 transceiver
• ICOM AT 120 automatic antenna tuner
• Standard Horizon Hx260S portable VHF
• Shakespeare SeaWatch model 2020 TV antenna
• 12-volt DC electrical system
• 110-volt AC electrical system
• 30-amp shorepower and cordset
• Sceptre electrical panel
• Heart Interface Freedom 25 inverter/battery charger
• Heart Interface Link 2000R inverter/charger controller
• 55-amp alternator
• 105-amp Silver Bullet alternator
• (2) Siemens M75 48-watt solar panels
• Specialty concepts solar charge controller
• (4) Dyno 6-volt D415 batteries (2014)
• Yanmar 4JH-TE (9,024 hours)
• Yanmar 3JH3E control panel
• Yanmar start/stop panel at inside helm
• Kobelt engine controls at inside helm station
• Dual Racor R265 fuel filters
• Solid 3-blade propeller
• Spare 3-blade MaxProp propeller
• PSS dripless stuffing box

Sails & Rigging

• Pacific Spars double spreader mast (painted 2011)
• Aft lower shrouds to both sets of spreaders
• Intermediate forestay
• Continuous rod rigging
• Harken mechanical backstay adjustor

LED anchor light

• North Sails furling mainsail
• 110% North Sails genoa on furler
• North Sails staysail on furler
• 150% North Sails genoa
• Spare North Sails mainsail
• Spare North Sails genoa
• Asymmetrical North Sails spinnaker in sock
• North Sails storm sail

Safety and Miscellaneous

10’ Porta-bote

Honda 2.3HP outboard

(3) spare alternators

Monitor windvane self-steering gear

Tricolor masthead LED (Not installed)

Emergency window shutters

Beaufort 6-person liferaft in cannister (needs recertification if possible)

Extra propeller shaft

Mast steps (not installed)

Spare cordage

Slats for converting dinette to double berth

Misc life jackets and throwable cushions

High Seas rescue collar

MOM8 man overboard module (needs inspection)

Extensive extra stainless-steel fasteners and fittings

• Dec 12, 2020

Pilothouse Sailboats: The Myth of Inside Steering

Updated: Feb 2, 2021

Prior to buying my Cooper 416 more than 20 years ago I was a "traditionalist" when it came to sailboats. I thought Pilothouse sailboats had way to much windage, the big doghouse was hard to see over, the inside steering station added additional maintenance, and they were hotter than a greenhouse in the Mohave Desert when cruising in tropical climates. And, I had not seen too many that were aesthetically appealing. I also felt that "real" sailors should be out in the elements with the wind and rain and the occasional dousing of salt spray peppering your face.

First, and most importantly let me clarify a distinction between modern pilothouse sailboats and motorsailers. For example, the Cooper 416, the Sceptre 41, the Dufour 12000CT, and others are what I consider "modern pilothouse" sailboats that have raised doghouses with sleek lines. Compare these to motorsailers such as the Nauticat 33 & 44, the Cabo Rico PH, and Fishers that look like someone took a sailboat and threw a giant window box on top of the coachroof. I am not a fan of motorsailers as theses types of sailboats embody all the negative connotations of pilothouse designs.

But, as my father was getting on in years, and after sailing (motoring) in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) for a few years where the winds are fickle, the currents strong, and the rain virtually constant...I decided that perhaps a pilothouse was the way to go for the PNW. The pilothouse layout would be more comfortable for my father than the full-keeled True North 34 sailboat that I had prior to my Cooper 416. And besides, if the weather was inclement with no wind and we were motoring (which is quite common in Puget Sound) it would be nice to be able to go below, throw some hot water on the stove for some hot chocolate, and keep watch in the warmth of the cabin while continuing my voyage.

But now, after owning my pilothouse sailboat for more than 20 years with thousands of sea and ocean miles below her...let me debunk the notion of the inside steering station and some of the common myths of a modern pilothouse sailboat.

As I said, after "sailing" in the PNW for 5 years, and with my father getting on in years I considered a pilothouse design as a reasonable compromise. For those of you not familiar with sailing in the PNW, the winds are usually light and variable due to the mountain ranges. There are days of pea soup fog that doesn't dissipate until after noon, and yes...more rain days than dry days. Hell, I even sailed in the snow. So sure, the idea of being able to go below and still keep a watch was more appealing to me. I was also getting older and wiser. Spending 6 hours in the cockpit sitting in the rain when it is 35F outside while motoring from Port Townsend back to Seattle was not fun. Sailing should be fun!

So, in 2000 I bought a Cooper 416 pilothouse sailboat designed by Stan Huntingford and built by Cooper Yachts in Coquitlam, BC, Canada. I also had my eye on a Sceptre 41. I liked the lower profile hull design of the Sceptre, but the interior layout of the Cooper won out. I sailed the boat around Vancouver Island twice, down to San Francisco, up and down the Salish Sea, and in 2019 sailed across the Pacific to Hawaii. And, after 20 years and more than 15,000 miles I realized that I probably actually steered using the inside steering station less than 1 hour.

OK...I acknowledge that I have an autopilot (and also windvane steering added in 2019). In my opinion every "cruising" sailboat should have an autopilot. There are times when I love the feel of the helm such as short day-sails with friends, teaching crew how to steer and maneuver, and beer can regattas such as the Downtown Sailing Series out of Elliott Bay Marina. And sometimes I like to give Tardis (the Garmin Reactor autopilot) and Hephzibah (the Hydrovane wind vane steering) a break, and take over the steering duties and rekindle the sense of sailing rather than just riding on a sailboat. But, it is pure folly to think that you are going to sit at the helm and steering a cruising sailboat for 6 or more hours day after day; it's just impractical.

But, even during these times when I took the helm, it was the helm in the cockpit. When I leave a berth or anchorage I am at the helm in the cockpit. When I am docking or dropping the hook I am at the helm in the cockpit. When I out with friends for a day sail I am at the helm in the cockpit. When I trim sails and setting Hephzibah I am in the cockpit. Even when I am motoring on windless days...I am usually in the cockpit standing watch and Tardis is steering the desired course.

Yes, during inclement weather and really cold days I would stand watch inside. The pilothouse is warm and dry and safe. Of course, I go below to cook nice meals and use the head feeling quite comfortable with Hephzibah or Tardis keeping S/V Discovery on course. The navigation station inside the pilothouse has radar, the primary chartplotter with AIS interfaced, and the autopilot master controller (an AP remote is located in the cockpit). So, with the electronic navigational systems and a 270 degree view ahead and abeam of the boat I feel pretty confident in adequate watch keeping. And more importantly, even during these times below deck either Hephzibah or Tardis were steering the course while the inside helm sat idle.

So, in October 2020 I decided the inside steering station added no benefit, and was just a meaningless "feature." So, I removed the inside helm and built a navigation console. Removing the inside helm pump also meant removing the old copper hydraulic lines and simplifying the hydraulic steering system (e.g. bleeding is easier and uses less fluid). It also removed the redundant gear and throttle control cables. And also, since the navigation station is the epicenter of the boat's electrical system, it also meant some electrical work. I also moved the electronic navigation systems into the console so they have easier access and visibility while sitting at the navigation station.

While the inside steering station on a sailboat seems like a pretty good idea, and certainly adds a "WOW" factor for guests, I must say that unless you sail in northern latitudes in blizzard-like conditions and all your sail controls are controlled via electric switches and motors, the inside steering station really doesn't make a lot of sense. This is not to say the pilothouse design isn't great...but steering from inside a pilothouse is done via an autopilot...not with a wheel .

Some other thoughts about pilothouse sailboats...

The windage myth...

Any surface area above the boat create windage. A J-boat has very little windage. A J-boat has very little if any creature comforts. A Nauticat 44 (motorsailer) has a huge doghouse and a lot of windage. Many of the sleeker pilothouse designs found on the Cooper, the Scepter, etc have less windage than a comparable sized Hanse or Beneteau or Janneau...especially the deck salons, or after adding a dodger and full enclosure around the cockpit.

The Greenhouse Effect myth...

There is a reason why many sailboats berthed or anchored for any length of time in the tropics is virtually covered from stem to stern with Sunbrella. The key to keeping any sailboat cool and comfortable in the tropics is ventilation and shade . This cannot be overstated enough. This means a tent over the foredeck, a boom tent over the doghouse, and a Bimini over the cockpit. Side curtains made from Phifertex around the cockpit also help keep things cool; they provide shade and allow airflow. New cruisers, or casual rally-rat cruisers are easy to spot...they are the folks who anchor their boats (sans canvas coverings) and hightail it to the nearest pub ashore to escape the heat.

Dual steering is difficult to maintain...

This puzzles me a bit. Most pilothouse boats with inside steering stations use hydraulic steering. This actually adds a bit of redundancy in the system should the pump at one of the helm stations break. But, the maintenance on a hydraulic steering systems involves checking the fluid level once a month once the system has been bled of all air (which can be challenging if done improperly). Also, it sure seems to me that if you're going to have 2 helms on a cruising sailboat to have one inside station and one cockpit station. Dual helms in the cockpit on a cruising sailboat makes about as much sense as 2 steering wheels in a car.

Cramped cockpits....

Yes, this is one of the real downsides of many pilothouse sailboats in the 30-50 foot range. The cabin interior is larger which mean the cockpits are smaller. Personally, I don't mind the small cockpit on passages because I sail alone or with 1 or 2 other crew and everything is within easy reach. But, for casual day sails with friends....the cockpit can get quite cramped and there is very little "social distancing" going on. But, the cockpit is still comfortable for 2 people to stretch out and relax on long passages.

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Sailing Pelagia

We are constantly torn between the mountains and the sea. This blog is an account of our sailing adventures , both in British Columbia and Mexico (2013-2015 trip to Mexico's Sea of Cortez), as well as our mountain adventures (including skiing in the Winter, hiking in the Summer/Fall, and trekking in Nepal). Hopefully this blog will provide you with helpful information on these topics (in addition to documenting our adventures). Welcome!

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Monday 26 September 2011

Pelagia: sceptre 41.

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Boats for Sale & Yachts

Sceptre yachts pilothouse 41 1990 boats for sale & yachts, sceptre yachts pilothouse boats review and specs.

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The Sceptre 41 provides a unique combination of superb cruising comfort and excellent performance under sail or power. The low-profile deck house provides good visibility from below and from the cockpit. The spacious main cabin accomodates the inside helm station and nav area, galley and the raised settee. Designed for comfortable long distance cruising or fast ocean passagemaking. JPeg has been beautifully maintained and upgraded, she is ready for immediate cruising or distance voyaging. Her bright and airy interior would make a perfect liveaboard. Contact Marine Servicenter in Seattle for full information or to arrange a viewing.

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The Best Sailboats for the High Seas?

At the St. Petersburg Boat Show month last month, I had the pleasure of seeing delivery skipper and author John Kretschmers presentation on what he called sailboats for a serious ocean. I have reservations about any ideal boat list, but Kretschmer, who reviews boats for Sail Magazine and whose most recent book Sailing a Serious Ocean is available in our online bookstore , has the ideal background for this sort of work, and a list like this is undeniably helpful for wannabe cruisers who need a place to start their search.

I certainly wouldnt limit my search to boats on such a list, but by paying careful attention to the pros and cons of each, you can find something that suits your own aspirations.

Here are the boats Kretschmer suggests: Contessa 32, Pacific Seacraft 34, Pretorien 35, Cape Dory/Robinhood 36, Valiant/Esprit 37, Prout Snowgoose 37, Alajuela 38, Privelege 39, Freya 39, Passport 40, Caliber 40, Baba 40, Hallberg Rassy 42, Taswell 43, Hylas 44, Norseman 447, Beneteau 456, Outbound 44, Hylas 46, Kaufman 47, Tayana 48, Hylas 49, Amel Maramu 53, and the Sundeer 60/64. For a brief capsule summary of each, be sure to check out his website.

The list is hardly definitive. There are plenty of good boats that arent featured, and some of these would be ill-matched for the wrong sailor-Kretschmer clearly pointed this out during his talk. I like how the list presents a good cross-section of the various shapes and sizes for a boat in this category. For example, Kretschmer includes the Prout Snowgoose and Steve Dashews Sundeer 60, boats that, notwithstanding their successful record at sea, fill an outlying niche.

If I were going to expand the list, one of the heavier-displacement microcruisers like those I blogged about would be a nice addition. Although I would be wary of promoting even the most formidable of this breed as well-suited for a serious ocean, John Neale of Mahina Tiare Expeditions includes one of them, the Dana 24, on his own list of recommend cruising boats . Neales much broader list of boats is accompanied by a very helpful discussion of design elements to consider.

What got me thinking about formidable cruising boats was our series of reports o n sailboat construction , focusing specifically on structural details. Although there are plenty of excellent coastal cruisers on the market, once you start talking about offshore duty, scan’tlings (the dimensions for structural components) take on far more importance.

A few years ago we touched on this subject in our Mailport section, encouraging readers to suggest their own nominees for a list of what we called at the time, tough boats, vessels that were built to take a beating, requiring minimal care and upkeep.

Here are some of the boats that were suggested from our readers: Mariner 36, Cal 34, Morgan 43, Swan 43, Bermuda 40, Island Packet 26, Mariner 47, LeComte Northeast 38, Westsail 32, Dana 24, J/35, and the CSY 44.

Id be interested in hearing of other nominees for this list, or other good resources for sailors looking for a short list of good offshore boats.

For those who are frustrated to find that their own ideal boat isn’t on anybodys list, I wouldnt be too miffed. The best line Ive heard in a while on this topic came from Steve Callahan, the author of the survival classic Adrift , who gave a presentation at the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Show . When I asked Steve, who has sailed extensively on both multihulls and monohulls, what type of boat he preferred, he said, quite seriously. Well, at the end of the day, the best cruising boat is the one that you are on.

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Interesting list. I am fond of Hylas of which you chose three models. However, I am suspect of their yard and construction techniques and do not have confidence that they are as strong as they are beautiful. Only one Hallberg-Rassy was selected, which is a far more robust and dry sailing boat than the Hylas. Passports make a good boat as does Cape Dory and several others on your list. Didn’t four sailors die on a Beneteau in 2018? Over all it is a decent list.

https://metro.co.uk/2018/04/25/last-pictures-doomed-yacht-cheeki-rafiki-sank-killing-four-british-sailors-7497805/

I believe this is the accident you’re talking about in which a Beneteau and it’s bolted on keel parted company.

Almost all of the sailing clubs in San Diego rent Beneteaus out. They are a decent coastal sailboat. I have a couple friends who have even made the crossing to Maui in them..not me, not ever. I consider them a living room boat. Having said that, I am certainly no expert so its just my opinion. If I am crossing an ocean I want a capable kindly strong boat with redundancy built into critical systems.

Curious to think what people think about the early 70s Swan 43 as a cruising boat for a couple with occasional guests for a round the world trip? I have an S&S 30 which is too small but I do have some bias towards their designs. Add a watermaker and some power generation and off you go… Any thoughts?

Are Motor Sailors like the Nauticats or Fishers ocean worthy ( if their pilot house windows and sliding doors are lifeboatified ? )

Walt Schulz’s Shannon 43 is a beautiful, sea kindly, comfortable and sturdy bluewater boat. Walt had not only the ICW and Bahamas in mind when he designed and built 52 of them. He designed for ocean cruising. He believes his boats should outlive him and still sailing for generations. We sailed the Chesapeake, Bahamas, Caribbean and Pacific to Australia on a Shannon 43 ketch. She took great care of us and is still turning heads.

Great article! John Kretchmer is one of my fave modern day sailors. While there is only one Crealock design on John’s list, and the Dana is added on John Neale’s list, I was surprised not to see a Crealock/ Pacific Seacraft 37 mentioned. But there are so many great serious off shore boats, it’s hard to narrow it down to 10. Here’s a few to think about. Cape George Cutter 36. Biscay 36, tradewind 35, Rustler 36, Nicholson 31 (never talked about) and 32. Seldom seen on top 10 lists, but great boats. Thanks for the article.

Great comment and interesting to note that the first four of your additions are those currently entered in the 2022 Golden Globe Race – kind of the definition of a blue water boat.

Hey! I know this is somewhat off-topic however I needed to ask. Does operating a well-established blog like yours take a massive amount work? I am completely new to writing a blog but I do write in my journal everyday. I’d like to start a blog so I will be able to share my experience and feelings online. Please let me know if you have any kind of recommendations or tips for new aspiring blog owners. Thankyou!|

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Grey Haired Globetrotter

A journey of sails & sunsets, about grey haired globetrotter sails & sunsets blog:, aloha i’m heather….

Welcome to my blog, where I share our  journey of purchasing a Sceptre 41 sailboat, learning how to sail, and embarking on unforgettable adventures on the open waters.

I invite fellow sailing enthusiasts to join me and share your experiences, insights, and tips for sailing and boat ownership.

Let’s connect and inspire each other to pursue our passion for sailing and adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a newcomer to the world of sailing, my blog offers a captivating glimpse into the joys and challenges of owning a Sceptre 41 sailboat and the freedom of sailing.

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