Bristol Channel Cutter

The Bristol Channel Cutter is a popular sailboat model known for its seaworthiness, classic design, and comfortable living space. Originally designed by Lyle C. Hess and built by Cape George Marine Works, the Bristol Channel Cutter has become a favorite among cruising sailors. The boat's long keel and transom-hung rudder provide excellent stability and handling in rough seas, while its classic lines and spacious interior make it a comfortable Show More

The Bristol Channel Cutter comes in a variety of models, each with its own set of specifications and features. The most common model is the BCC 28, which has a length overall (LOA) of 37'9" and a length on deck (LOD) of 28'1". Other models include the BCC 30, BCC 32, and BCC 39. Each model has its own unique features and characteristics, making it important for potential buyers to research and compare different models to find the one that best fits their needs.

Key Takeaways

The Bristol Channel Cutter is a popular sailboat model known for its seaworthiness, classic design, and comfortable living space.
The boat comes in a variety of models, each with its own set of specifications and features.
Potential buyers should research and compare different models to find the one that best fits their needs.

History of Bristol Channel Cutter

Origins and Designer

The Bristol Channel Cutter is a monohull sailboat designed by Lyle C. Hess in the mid-1970s. Hess designed the boat with one thing in mind - creating a cruising sailboat in a small, manageable package without sacrificing an ounce of seaworthiness. Hess was a prolific designer who also designed boats like the Falmouth Cutter, the Hess 19, and the Hess 26.

Evolution and Builders

The first Bristol Channel Cutter was built in 1976 by Cape George Marine Works and Sam L. Morse Co. The boat was an instant success, and soon became a favorite among sailors looking for a reliable and seaworthy cruising boat. Over the years, several builders have built the Bristol Channel Cutter, including the Sam L. Morse Co., Cape George Marine Works, and Pacific Seacraft.

The Bristol Channel Cutter gained widespread recognition after Lin and Larry Pardey sailed their Bristol Channel Cutter named Seraffyn around the world in the late 1970s. The Pardeys later sailed a second Bristol Channel Cutter named Taleisin around the world, which further cemented the boat's reputation as a reliable and seaworthy cruising boat.

Today, the Bristol Channel Cutter is still in production, and remains a popular choice among sailors looking for a small, seaworthy cruising boat. While the boat has undergone some changes over the years, it still retains its classic lines and reputation for seaworthiness. The current price of a new Bristol Channel Cutter starts at around $300,000.

Overall, the Bristol Channel Cutter has a rich history and continues to be a beloved boat among sailors. Its reputation for seaworthiness and reliability has made it a popular choice for sailors looking to cross oceans and explore the world's waterways.

Design and Specifications

The Bristol Channel Cutter is a sailboat model designed by Lyle C. Hess and built by Cape George Marine Works and Sam L. Morse Co. starting in 1975. The boat is available in two models, the Bristol Channel Cutter 28 and the Bristol Channel Cutter 34. Both models have a long keel with a transom-hung rudder controlled by a tiller and a fixed long keel. The boats have a cutter rig and a spooned plumb stem.

Hull and Keel

The Bristol Channel Cutter features a full keel and a heavy displacement fiberglass hull. The boat has a draft of 5' 3" and a beam of 10' 10". The Bristol Channel Cutter 28 has a LOA of 28' 1" and a LWL of 26' 3", while the Bristol Channel Cutter 34 has a LOA of 34' 0" and a LWL of 27' 6". The boats have a displacement of 14,000 lb and 17,500 lb respectively, with a ballast of 4,600 lb and 6,000 lb respectively.

Rigging and Sails

The Bristol Channel Cutter has a cutter rig with a sail area of 510 square feet for the Bristol Channel Cutter 28 and 640 square feet for the Bristol Channel Cutter 34. The boats have a sail area/displacement ratio of 14.47 and 14.97 respectively. The boats have a capsize screening formula (CSF) of 1.69 for the Bristol Channel Cutter 28 and 1.63 for the Bristol Channel Cutter 34, indicating good seaworthiness.

Interior Layout

The Bristol Channel Cutter has a comfortable interior layout with teak joinery and pilot berths. The Bristol Channel Cutter 28 has 4 berths and 1 head, while the Bristol Channel Cutter 34 has 5 berths and 1 head. The boats have a V-berth forward and a settee/berth on each side of the main cabin. The boats have a large cockpit with tiller steering and a transom-hung rudder.

In terms of price, the Bristol Channel Cutter is a high-end sailboat with a starting price of around $100,000 for a used model. The boat's competitors include other heavy displacement sailboats such as the Pacific Seacraft 34, the Westsail 32, and the Tayana 37.

Overall, the Bristol Channel Cutter is a well-built and seaworthy sailboat with a classic design and comfortable interior layout. Its full keel and heavy displacement make it a good choice for bluewater cruising, while its cutter rig provides good performance in a variety of wind conditions.

Performance and Seaworthiness

Handling and Stability

The Bristol Channel Cutter is known for its excellent handling and stability, making it a popular choice for long-distance cruising. Its displacement hull design ensures that it can handle rough seas with ease, while its full keel provides added stability and helps keep the boat on course. The boat's sloop or cutter rigging also contributes to its stability, allowing for easy handling even in high winds.

Speed and Comfort

While the Bristol Channel Cutter may not be the fastest boat on the water, it is known for its comfortable ride. Its hull speed is around 6.5 knots, which is slower than some other boats in its class. However, its comfort ratio of 38.5 and capsize ratio of 1.7 indicate that it is a safe and comfortable boat to sail. The sail area/displacement ratio of 16.5 also suggests that it is a good performer under sail.

Overall, the Bristol Channel Cutter is a well-designed and seaworthy sailboat that is capable of handling a variety of conditions. Its combination of stability, comfort, and performance make it a popular choice among cruisers. While there are other sailboats on the market that may be faster or have more advanced features, the Bristol Channel Cutter remains a classic choice for those seeking a reliable and comfortable cruising experience.

Engine and Power Systems

Motor Specifications

The Bristol Channel Cutter is typically powered by a diesel engine. The engine makes, model, and horsepower can vary depending on the year of the boat. For example, the 1989 Bristol Channel Cutter 28 Cutter for sale on YachtWorld is powered by a Yanmar diesel engine with a horsepower of 25. Other models may have different engines, such as the Volvo Penta MD 7A. It is important to check the motor specifications of each individual boat to ensure that it meets the buyer's needs.

Fuel Efficiency and Capacity

The fuel efficiency and capacity of the Bristol Channel Cutter can also vary depending on the model and year. According to Sailboat Data, the ballast/displacement ratio of the Bristol Channel Cutter is 40 or more, making it a stiffer, more powerful boat that can better stand up to the wind. The fuel capacity is typically around 35 gallons, which can provide a range of up to 500 nautical miles, depending on the speed and conditions.

It is important to note that fuel efficiency can be affected by a variety of factors, including the condition of the engine, the weight of the boat, and the speed at which it is traveling. Therefore, it is recommended that buyers consult with a qualified marine mechanic or surveyor to assess the fuel efficiency and capacity of any Bristol Channel Cutter they are considering purchasing.

Pricing and Value

Cost Analysis

The Bristol Channel Cutter is a highly sought-after boat due to its classic design and exceptional craftsmanship. As of May 2024, the prices of these boats range from $53,000 to $167,900, depending on the model and condition. While some may consider this price range to be on the higher end of the spectrum, the Bristol Channel Cutter is known to hold its value over time, making it a wise investment for those who want a quality boat that will last for years to come.

Depreciation and Resale

When it comes to depreciation and resale value, the Bristol Channel Cutter is a solid performer. Due to its timeless design and reputation for quality, these boats tend to hold their value well over time. While there may be some depreciation in the first few years of ownership, the resale value of a well-maintained Bristol Channel Cutter can still be quite high.

It is important to note that the resale value of a Bristol Channel Cutter can vary depending on a number of factors, including the age of the boat, the condition of the hull and sails, and the level of maintenance and upkeep. To ensure the best possible resale value, it is important to keep the boat in top condition and make any necessary repairs or upgrades as soon as possible.

Overall, the Bristol Channel Cutter is a boat that offers excellent value for its price. With its classic design, exceptional craftsmanship, and reputation for quality, it is a wise investment for those who want a boat that will last for years to come.

Competitors and Alternatives

Comparable Models

The Bristol Channel Cutter is a popular model for offshore cruising, but there are a few comparable models that potential buyers may want to consider. One such model is the Catalina 38. This boat is slightly larger than the Bristol Channel Cutter, with a length overall of 38 feet. It is also designed for offshore cruising and has a reputation for being a comfortable and seaworthy vessel. Another comparable model is the Beneteau Oceanis 38. This boat is a bit larger than the Bristol Channel Cutter, with a length overall of 38 feet, and is designed for both offshore and coastal cruising. It has a modern design and is known for being easy to handle.

Another option to consider is the Falmouth Cutter. This boat is similar in size to the Bristol Channel Cutter, with a length overall of 22 feet, and is also designed for offshore cruising. It has a traditional design and is known for its seaworthiness and simplicity. However, it may not be as comfortable for extended periods of time as some of the larger models.

Market Positioning

The Bristol Channel Cutter is positioned in the mid-range of the offshore cruising sailboat market. It is more expensive than some of the smaller models, such as the Falmouth Cutter, but less expensive than some of the larger models, such as the Catalina 38 and Beneteau Oceanis 38. While it may not be the most affordable option, it is known for its quality and seaworthiness, which makes it a popular choice for serious offshore cruisers.

When considering competitors and alternatives, potential buyers should take into account their specific needs and preferences. Factors such as size, comfort, and price will all play a role in the decision-making process. Ultimately, the Bristol Channel Cutter may be the best choice for some buyers, while others may find that one of the comparable models is a better fit for their needs.

Ownership Experience

Maintenance and Upkeep

Owning a Bristol Channel Cutter requires a certain level of commitment to maintenance and upkeep. The boat is built with high-quality materials such as balsa-cored decks, bronze fittings, and cast lead ballast, which require regular attention to maintain their integrity. Additionally, the cutter rig demands careful tuning and attention to ensure proper sail shape and performance.

Owners should be prepared to spend time and money on maintenance and repairs. However, the payoff is a vessel that is well-suited for bluewater cruising and capable of withstanding the rigors of extended voyages.

Community and Support

Bristol Channel Cutter owners are part of a tight-knit community of sailors who share a passion for these classic vessels. Owners can find support and camaraderie through online forums, local sailing clubs, and gatherings of like-minded sailors.

In addition to the community aspect, owners can also benefit from the support of experienced boatbuilders and marine professionals who are familiar with the Bristol Channel Cutter and its unique characteristics. This network of support can be invaluable when it comes to tackling maintenance and repair projects, as well as sourcing parts and materials.

Overall, owning a Bristol Channel Cutter can be a rewarding experience for those who are willing to put in the time and effort required to maintain these classic vessels. With a strong community of owners and support from experienced professionals, owners can feel confident in their ability to keep their boats in top condition for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the specifications of the Bristol Channel Cutter 28 model?

The Bristol Channel Cutter 28 is a renowned cruising sailboat that has been in production since 1976. The boat has a length overall (LOA) of 28 feet, a beam of 9 feet, and a draft of 4 feet. It has a displacement of 17,000 pounds and a ballast of 7,000 pounds. The boat is equipped with a long keel and transom-hung rudder, and it has a sail area of 480 square feet. The boat is made of hand-laid fiberglass and is known for its seaworthiness and classic lines.

How does the Bristol Channel Cutter compare to its closest competitors in terms of performance and quality?

The Bristol Channel Cutter is a high-quality cruising sailboat that is known for its seaworthiness and classic design. Its closest competitors include boats such as the Falmouth Cutter and the Westsail 32. While the Bristol Channel Cutter is slightly smaller than these boats, it is known for its superior sailing performance and better handling in rough seas. The boat is also known for its quality construction and attention to detail.

What is the price range for a new or used Bristol Channel Cutter?

The price of a new Bristol Channel Cutter can vary depending on the options and features selected, but it typically ranges from $250,000 to $350,000. Used Bristol Channel Cutters can be found for sale in the range of $100,000 to $200,000. The price can vary depending on the age, condition, and location of the boat.

Where can I find a Bristol Channel Cutter for sale by owner?

Bristol Channel Cutters can be found for sale by owner on various online platforms such as YachtWorld, Sailboat Listings, and Craigslist. Interested buyers can also check with local boat dealers and brokers who may have listings for Bristol Channel Cutters.

Can you provide a review summary of the Bristol Channel Cutter from owners and experts?

The Bristol Channel Cutter is highly regarded by owners and experts alike for its classic design, seaworthiness, and quality construction. Owners praise the boat for its sailing performance, comfortable interior, and attention to detail. Experts note that the boat is well-suited for offshore cruising and is a proven design that has stood the test of time.

Are there any detailed plans available for the Bristol Channel Pilot Cutter for those interested in design and construction?

Yes, detailed plans for the Bristol Channel Pilot Cutter are available from various sources, including the designer Lyle C. Hess. These plans include detailed drawings and specifications for the boat's construction, and they are suitable for experienced builders who are interested in constructing their own Bristol Channel Cutter.