Sailing pilot boats were the most highly evolved vessels of their time. Of these the Bristol Channel pilot cutters were surely the pinnacle of seaworthiness and performance.

Pilotage in the Bristol Channel was intensely competitive and also lucrative for successful crews (which often numbered just one man and a boy). This drove design to balance and optimise speed, ease of handling and most importantly sea keeping.

The cutters would race down channel in all weathers, often 100 miles to Westward of their homeports. Their ability to 'heave to' comfortably in a very heavy sea, whilst waiting for an inbound ship is a quality which will be equally appreciated by modern owners of our newly built pilot cutters.

Their speed will come as a surprise to many, but their heavy displacement enables them to cut through a choppy sea that would stop many more modern boats. They are truly excellent passage makers, with their kindly motion often leaving the crew more rested than might be the case after a rough trip.

In building new cutters, we embody all the virtues of the old working craft then add the modern comforts required by individual clients. The large internal volume of a cutter allows considerable scope when designing a bespoke interior, be it for an ocean bound couple or a hard working charter outfit.

To own one of these magnificent craft is to own the best of our historic sailing heritage and a boat you will always take another look at as you walk away after a sail.

We have lines for historic pilot cutters ranging from 38' to 60' alternatively call us to discuss the design of a new and unique pilot cutter hull.