Description:
The Pen-Hir is a compact coastal cruising sailboat inspired by the traditional working craft of the Brittany coastline yet thoughtfully adapted for modern recreational sailing. Its well-balanced hull, gentle sheerline, and practical deck layout create a classic silhouette that is both elegant and purposeful on the water. Designed for day sailing and short coastal cruises, the Pen-Hir blends traditional maritime character with dependable handling and comfort, making it well suited for exploring bays, estuaries, and sheltered coastal passages.
Crafted in our workshop with dedication to fine boatbuilding, the Pen-Hir is constructed from carefully selected marine timbers such as Western Red Cedar, Mahogany, and Teak. Structural areas are reinforced where necessary with premium composite materials, while the entire hull is sealed and protected using high-grade marine coatings to ensure durability in both freshwater and sheltered coastal environments. Built using traditional plank-on-frame techniques, each hull reflects authentic wooden character combined with modern reliability.
The hull geometry is designed to deliver reassuring initial stability, smooth rowing efficiency, and lively yet controlled sailing performance. The Pen-Hir responds willingly to the helm, accelerates cleanly in moderate breezes, and remains forgiving for sailors of varying experience levels. Depending on finish and configuration, construction time typically ranges from 4 to 6 months, with kit options available for dedicated builders.
Customization is at the heart of every Pen-Hir. Owners may select wood species, trim finishes, cockpit layout, rig configuration, hardware detailing, and storage solutions to suit their sailing style and cruising grounds. Each boat is built to order as a distinctive commission, reflecting the personality and ambitions of its future owner.
Specifications
- Hull length : 24.57 ft
- Waterline length : 22.47 ft
- Breadth : 8.20 ft
- Waterline breadth : 6.79 ft
- Draught: 3.77 ft
- Lightweight (incl. motor): 4,078.55 lbs
- Lead ballast: 1,322.77 lbs
- Sail area: 363.82 ft2
- Recommended outboard motor: 6 hp
- Max outbord motor: 10 hp
Performance and Use
Equally at ease under oars or sail, the Pen-Hir glides efficiently across calm lakes, explores winding estuaries, and handles protected coastal waters with confidence. Under sail, it offers balanced heel characteristics, steady upwind tracking, and responsive maneuverability. The thoughtfully arranged cockpit encourages relaxed social sailing while maintaining secure and ergonomic helm control.
Every wooden boat we craft is built from Vivierboats, with full credit given to the original designers where applicable. For each commission, we obtain authorized drawings and construct the vessel to order, offering both full-size boats and finely detailed scale models.
Contact us to discuss configuration options, technical details, and scheduling for your Pen-Hir - a small boat with a remarkably enduring spirit.
History:
The Pen-Hir boat takes its name from the dramatic headland of Pointe de Pen-Hir on the western coast of Brittany, a region shaped by powerful Atlantic swells and centuries of seafaring tradition. Local fishermen and sailors depended on strong, seaworthy boats capable of handling rough coastal waters, rocky shores, and shifting tides.
Traditional Breton craft were built with deep respect for the sea, combining sturdy construction with balanced hull lines for stability and control. The Pen-Hir design reflects this maritime heritage, drawing inspiration from small coastal working boats that were both practical and resilient.
Today, the Pen-Hir honors Brittany's boatbuilding legacy, blending historic character with modern craftsmanship to offer dependable performance and timeless coastal elegance.