JUST ADD SIMPLICITY

We have produced a type eminently fit or racing or cruising in all waters, and we anticipate a demand which will enable us to lay down boats in batches during that slack season inevitable in the Yacht-Building industry, and thus provide continuous employment throughout the year for our best hands. These boats have been before the public for four seasons. And their performances have justified our confidence in the design. Their all-round excellence under all conditions of wind and weather has been endorsed by every Owner and helmsman. Notwithstanding the very moderate sail-plan, they are surprisingly fast in light weather, while the ample free-board ensures buoyance and dryness in a seaway. They are beautifully balanced and easy to steer.”

So reads the brochure for the West Solent Restricted One Design Class from the builder, Berthon Boat Company, in the sort of prose you only find today in the footnotes of your insurance renewal. But never mind the copywriting: the class was successful with 39 built, at least a third of which remain in commission to this day. And the boasts weren’t idle ones. The W boats have won races consistently for the near-century of their existence, and continue to do so to this day. The idea that they might prove to