1981 Herreshoff 12 1/2 Sold Boat in Stonington, CT US
12 1/2
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16 feet
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Fiberglass/Reinforced
1981 Herreshoff Doughdish 12 1/2 - Clover
Generations of discriminating yachting families on the New England coastline have owned these boats. Many have changed hands by inheritance. A Doughdish is ideal for beginners, for Class racing, or casual day sailing by all ages.
She is exceptionally seaworthy and capable in all kinds of weather, as comfortable to sail as a small boat can be, is surprisingly fast, and has abundant space for a crew of 4 persons. She is lovely to single-hand, and can be managed by children or great-grandmothers, yet still enjoyed by seasoned yachtsmen and women. In addition, she is distinctively charming with beautiful lines. She turns readily and reliably, has a self-tending jib, and accommodates her crew inside the cockpit on ample seats with unobstructed legroom. You can stand anywhere on the boat without fear of instability. It takes no time to set sail or put her to bed. The fiberglass hull is relatively easy and inexpensive to maintain and is very strong.
Clover comes with a full set of sails, including a brand-new unused spinnaker for class racing. She also comes included with a custom Triad trailer, Oars, Oar locks, Canvas cockpit cover, and Canvas jib cover.
1981 Herreshoff Doughdish 12 1/2 - Clover
Generations of discriminating yachting families on the New England coastline have owned these boats. Many have changed hands by inheritance. A Doughdish is ideal for beginners, for Class racing, or casual day sailing by all ages.
She is exceptionally seaworthy and capable in all kinds of weather, as comfortable to sail as a small boat can be, is surprisingly fast, and has abundant space for a crew of 4 persons. She is lovely to single-hand, and can be managed by children or great-grandmothers, yet still enjoyed by seasoned yachtsmen and women. In addition, she is distinctively charming with beautiful lines. She turns readily and reliably, has a self-tending jib, and accommodates her crew inside the cockpit on ample seats with unobstructed legroom. You can stand anywhere on the boat without fear of instability. It takes no time to set sail or put her to bed. The fiberglass hull is relatively easy and inexpensive to maintain and is very strong.
Clover comes with a full set of sails, including a brand-new unused spinnaker for class racing. She also comes included with a custom Triad trailer, Oars, Oar locks, Canvas cockpit cover, and Canvas jib cover.
1981 Herreshoff 12 1/2 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1981 Herreshoff 12 1/2
Customers consistently praise the 1981 Herreshoff 12 1/2 for its classic design and exceptional craftsmanship
Many highlight its timeless elegance and solid build quality, noting that it offers a smooth and stable sailing experience. Enthusiasts appreciate the boat's responsiveness and ease of handling, making it ideal for both leisurely day sails and competitive racing. The spacious cockpit and comfortable seating receive positive remarks, as does the boat's ability to perform well in various wind conditions. Overall, owners value the blend of tradition and performance that the 1981 Herreshoff 12 1/2 delivers.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1981 Herreshoff 12 1/2 is a classic daysailer known for its timeless design and solid craftsmanship. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Classic Design: The Herreshoff 12 1/2 features a traditional, elegant look that appeals to enthusiasts of classic wooden sailboats.
Stable and Easy to Sail: Its full keel and moderate sail plan make it stable and forgiving, ideal for beginners and casual sailors.
High-Quality Construction: Built with attention to detail and quality materials, the boat offers durability and longevity.
Good for Day Sailing: Its size and design make it perfect for leisurely day sails and small group outings.
Strong Community and Heritage: Being a well-known classic, it has a dedicated following and a rich sailing history.
Cons
Limited Space: As a small daysailer, the Herreshoff 12 1/2 has limited cockpit and storage space, which may not be suitable for longer trips or larger groups.
Maintenance: Wooden versions require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Performance Limitations: While stable, it’s not designed for high-speed sailing or racing, so it may not satisfy those looking for a more performance-oriented boat.
Heavier Weight: The full keel design adds weight, which can make trailering and launching more challenging compared to lighter modern daysailers.
Made For
The 1981 Herreshoff 12 1/2 is perfect for sailors who appreciate classic design combined with timeless performance. Ideal for day sailing enthusiasts, families, and those looking for a reliable, easy-to-handle boat, it offers a charming blend of tradition and functionality. Whether you're a seasoned sailor seeking a nostalgic experience or a beginner eager to learn in a stable and graceful vessel, the Herreshoff 12 1/2 is designed to deliver enjoyable and memorable time on the water.
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Stonington, CT













