Pen-Hir 25ft Coastal Cruising Sailboat

The Pen-Hir is a compact coastal cruising sailboat inspired by the traditional working boats of Brittany’s coastline and thoughtfully adapted for modern recreational sailing. With a well-balanced hull, gentle sheerline, and practical deck layout, the Pen-Hir combines timeless maritime character with dependable handling and comfortable performance on the water.

Designed for day sailing and short coastal cruises, the Pen-Hir is well suited for exploring sheltered bays, estuaries, lakes, and protected coastal passages. Equally capable under sail or oars, it offers a responsive yet forgiving experience for sailors of different experience levels.

Traditional Craftsmanship, Modern Reliability

Each Pen-Hir is handcrafted in our workshop using carefully selected marine-grade timbers, including Western Red Cedar, Mahogany, and Teak. Structural areas are reinforced with premium composite materials where appropriate, while the hull is sealed and protected with high-quality marine coatings for long-term durability in freshwater and sheltered coastal environments.

Built using traditional plank-on-frame construction, every hull retains the authentic character of a wooden boat while incorporating modern materials and construction methods where needed.

The hull is designed to provide reassuring initial stability, efficient rowing performance, and lively yet controlled sailing characteristics. The Pen-Hir responds naturally to the helm, tracks confidently upwind, and performs smoothly in moderate conditions.

Specifications

• Hull Length: 25 ft

• Waterline Length: 22.47 ft

• Beam: 8.2 ft

• Waterline Beam: 6.79 ft

• Draft: 3.77 ft

• Lightweight (including motor): 4,078.55 lbs

• Lead Ballast: 1,322.77 lbs

• Sail Area: 363.82 ft²

• Recommended Outboard: 6 hp

• Maximum Outboard: 10 hp

Performance & Intended Use

The Pen-Hir is equally comfortable under oars or sail. Its efficient hull moves smoothly across calm lakes and sheltered waters, while its balanced sailing characteristics provide confident handling in protected coastal conditions.

Under sail, the boat offers:

• Balanced and predictable heel characteristics
• Steady upwind tracking
• Responsive maneuverability
• Efficient performance in moderate breezes
• Comfortable and secure cockpit handling

The cockpit layout is designed for relaxed day sailing while maintaining practical and ergonomic helm control.

Custom-Built to Your Preferences

Customization is an important part of every Pen-Hir commission. Depending on the configuration, owners can select:

• Wood species and finishes
• Interior and exterior trim
• Cockpit layout
• Rig configuration
• Hardware and fittings
• Storage solutions
• Other custom details
• Each boat is built to order, allowing the finished vessel to reflect the owner's intended use, preferred style, and cruising environment.

Construction typically takes 4–6 months, depending on the selected specifications and finish. Kit options may also be available for experienced builders.

A Design Rooted in Brittany's Maritime Heritage

The Pen-Hir takes its name from Pointe de Pen-Hir, a dramatic headland on the western coast of Brittany, France. The region has a long maritime tradition shaped by powerful Atlantic conditions, changing tides, rocky shores, and generations of coastal seafaring.

Traditional Breton working boats were valued for their sturdy construction, balanced hulls, and dependable handling in challenging coastal environments. The Pen-Hir draws on this heritage while adapting its character and proportions for modern recreational sailing.

The result is a small coastal sailboat that combines traditional wooden-boat character, practical performance, and modern craftsmanship.

Design & Authorized Construction

Our Pen-Hir boats are constructed based on authorized plans and drawings from Vivierboats, with appropriate credit given to the original designer and design source.

Each vessel is built to order in our workshop according to the applicable plans and specifications. We can also produce finely detailed scale models for customers interested in a miniature representation of the design.

For technical details, available configurations, customization options, and current lead times, please contact us to discuss your Pen-Hir project.

Pen-Hir — a compact wooden sailboat with timeless Breton character, built for exploring th