sailboats classic plastic

18. Whitby 42 A husky, voluminous 42-footer that nicely addressed the sometimes conflicting requirements of long-distance voyaging and long-term living aboard, the ketch-rigged Whitby 42 has been a fixture in far-flung anchorages since it was first launched in 1942. Originally built in Canada with a long, fixed keel, in later years a centerboard version was introduced and named the Brewer 12.8. Read a review of the Whitby 42.

Whitby 42

Spacious and sturdy, this cruiser is no slouch when it comes to sailing performance. “Classic Plastic” from our May 1998 issue.

Ericson 35 Mark II

Fine looks and a sweet sailing disposition ensure enduring popularity for the Ericson 35 Mark II. From “Classic Plastic” in our August 2008 issue

Stevens Custom 47

A cruising legend is born from a confluence of talents. From “Classic Plastic” in our March 2008 issue

Cape Dory 28

Attractive and well-mannered, the Cape Dory 28 offers the promise of a rewarding relationship. From “Classic Plastic” in our June 2007 issue.

A seakindly design and plenty of storage make both aft- and center-cockpit versions of the Island Trader 41 a good choice for extended cruising.

Island Trader 41

Beneath this ketch’s classic styling, comforts aplenty appease the cruising sailor. “Classic Plastic” from our April 2008 issue.

Passport 37

Both well built and well mannered, the Passport 37 can open the door to bluewater cruising. “Classic Plastic” from our September 2007 issue.

Tanton 43

Eschewing design dogma, the Tanton 43 sails on wings of innovation.”Classic Plastic” from our August 2007 issue.

The author's well-loved Pearson 303 shows off her pretty sheer line and unpretentious good looks.

Pearson 303

The sequel to a popular precursor, this sailboat proved to be another Shaw thing for builder and customer alike. “Classic Plastic” from our November 2007 issue.

Thanks to the generous sail plan, the Balboa 26 can make good use of light breezes.

Balboa 26

From sea to shining sea, this classic cruiser makes the transit by highway. “Classic Plastic” from our February 2008 issue

John Cherubini Is a Designer In Motion

In this piece from Cruising World‘s 1980 Sailboat Show Annual, Deborah Luhrs profiles the naval architect behind classic plastics like the Raider 33 and Cherubini 44.

Though the rig looks a little short, there's plenty of sail to push the Mariner 39 along in light airs.

Mariner 39

Ruggedized for life as a bareboat, the Mariner 39 wears well enough for blue water. “Classic Plastic” from our May 2007 issue.

The CSY 37 is sturdy and comfortable, whether in coastal waters or headed for blue water.

CSY 37

The CSY37 was built for casual charter roaming and proved capable of much more.

18. Whitby 42 A husky, voluminous 42-footer that nicely addressed the sometimes conflicting requirements of long-distance voyaging and long-term living aboard, the ketch-rigged Whitby 42 has been a fixture in far-flung anchorages since it was first launched in 1942. Originally built in Canada with a long, fixed keel, in later years a centerboard version was introduced and named the Brewer 12.8. Read a review of the Whitby 42.

Whitby 42

Spacious and sturdy, this cruiser is no slouch when it comes to sailing performance. “Classic Plastic” from our May 1998 issue.

Ericson 35 Mark II

Fine looks and a sweet sailing disposition ensure enduring popularity for the Ericson 35 Mark II. From “Classic Plastic” in our August 2008 issue

Stevens Custom 47

A cruising legend is born from a confluence of talents. From “Classic Plastic” in our March 2008 issue

Cape Dory 28

Attractive and well-mannered, the Cape Dory 28 offers the promise of a rewarding relationship. From “Classic Plastic” in our June 2007 issue.

A seakindly design and plenty of storage make both aft- and center-cockpit versions of the Island Trader 41 a good choice for extended cruising.

Island Trader 41

Beneath this ketch’s classic styling, comforts aplenty appease the cruising sailor. “Classic Plastic” from our April 2008 issue.

Passport 37

Both well built and well mannered, the Passport 37 can open the door to bluewater cruising. “Classic Plastic” from our September 2007 issue.

Tanton 43

Eschewing design dogma, the Tanton 43 sails on wings of innovation.”Classic Plastic” from our August 2007 issue.

The author's well-loved Pearson 303 shows off her pretty sheer line and unpretentious good looks.

Pearson 303

The sequel to a popular precursor, this sailboat proved to be another Shaw thing for builder and customer alike. “Classic Plastic” from our November 2007 issue.

Thanks to the generous sail plan, the Balboa 26 can make good use of light breezes.

Balboa 26

From sea to shining sea, this classic cruiser makes the transit by highway. “Classic Plastic” from our February 2008 issue

John Cherubini Is a Designer In Motion

In this piece from Cruising World‘s 1980 Sailboat Show Annual, Deborah Luhrs profiles the naval architect behind classic plastics like the Raider 33 and Cherubini 44.

Though the rig looks a little short, there's plenty of sail to push the Mariner 39 along in light airs.

Mariner 39

Ruggedized for life as a bareboat, the Mariner 39 wears well enough for blue water. “Classic Plastic” from our May 2007 issue.

The CSY 37 is sturdy and comfortable, whether in coastal waters or headed for blue water.

CSY 37

The CSY37 was built for casual charter roaming and proved capable of much more.

Email Newsletters and Special Offers

Sign up for Cruising World emails to receive features on travel destinations, event listings and product reviews as well as special offers on behalf of Cruising World’s partners.

By signing up you agree to receive communications from Cruising World and select partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy. You may opt out of email messages/withdraw consent at any time.

Most Recent

SUBSCRIPTIONS
ABOUT US
FOLLOW US
FIRECROWN BRANDS
Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. Cruising World may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site. Copyright © 2026 Cruising World Firecrown. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.