LF Herreshoff's Design #74

[Roger Cumming]

I would be interested in the opinion of experienced sailors of LFH's Desigh #74 "Diddikai", shown in Sensible Cruising Designs p. 282-5. Diddikai is 36'-6" LOA, 31'-0" LWL, 8'-8" B, 4'-9" D, 510 SF of SA, 17,843 lbs displacement, ketch-rigged, sharp stern. The boat would be used mostly by a crew of two, sometimes one, for sailing along the Atlantic coast Maine to Florida. What attracts me to this design is its easily-driven hull, ability to carry a tender on deck (although a small one), simple moderately-sized rig and ample accommodations for two. And of course I love the looks of this boat.

I am interested in your estimate of her speed, seaworthiness as a coastal cruiser, ability to be singlehanded. Several boats were built to this design, one written up in WB 10 or so years ago. I would be interested knowing if anyone has firsthand experience with this Diddikai design.

My last boat was a 9,000 lb. gaff-rigged yawl which I was comfortable singlehanding.

[Lance F. Gunderson]

There used to be a very nice one in South Bristol, Maine. I can't recall the owner's name at the moment but his wife's name was Tina Alley and she was a nurse. He painted houses. They loved the boat and sailed it south every winter. They found me becalmed off Barnegat Inlet, New Jersey and very kindly gave me a tow as my engine had quit. We had a good gam. They later sailed on to Florida, and so did I; on my way back I met them again near Norfolk, VA. They had me aboard and fed me very well; they were on their way back to Maine for the summer. The boat was in great shape and very simple and open below; very thoughtfully laid out for living aboard and extended cruising. She was painted grey and green. I think his name was Sam Jones. Perhaps he's still in Maine! I had the impression they loved the boat...they certainly took good care of her, and were happy with her performance.

[Jay Greer]

There is a "Diddikai" in Long Beach CA. I vistited with the owner about a year ago. He lives aboard and single hands the boat most of the time as his wife is passed on. Albiet; though the boat is fitted out in utilitarian manner it is very smart in appearance. All in all, the owner is very comfortable and loves the boat.
Jay

[peb]

This is a boat I have always dreamed about. How does this boat handle in light air? It seems like its sail plan is a little small.

[Roger Cumming]

Many thanks for your comments. They encourage me to pursue constructing a boat to this design.

[zenda]

Roger,
If you do, post lots of pictures. I recently acquired "Sensible Cruising Designs" and immediately fell in love with Diddikai. If . . . well, several things. But, I'd love to build her myself one day!