1985 Herreshoff 38 Cat Ketch

The Herreshoff 38 Cat Ketch is a 38-foot fiberglass sailing yacht built in 1985, distinguished by its twin unstayed carbon fiber masts rigged in a cat ketch configuration. This uncommon setup eliminates complex rigging and winches, keeping the deck clean and simple while allowing the masts to flex with wind pressure for natural sail shaping. The design prioritizes ease of handling, making the boat manageable even when sailing single-handed.

The hull combines fiberglass construction with an Airex foam core, balancing strength and light weight. The yacht carries a 42% ballast-to-weight ratio with low center of gravity, promoting stable upright sailing in various conditions. Its 4-foot 5-inch draft works well for both offshore and coastal cruising, while a theoretical hull speed of 9.5 knots supports efficient cruising at approximately 6.2 knots. A single 32-horsepower Kubota diesel engine provides auxiliary power.

Below deck, the yacht features two cabins and two heads arranged for practical extended cruising. Freshwater capacity totals 100 gallons, with ample storage for provisions. The layout prioritizes comfortable living quarters suited to longer passages. The yacht's stability and moderate draft, combined with its spacious interior, make it capable of both relaxed coastal sailing and demanding offshore voyages.