The GOLDENEYE is a sailing boat designed by Nathanael Herreshoff, a renowned American naval architect. It is a classic racing yacht that was first launched in 1934. The boat was commissioned by a wealthy American businessman named William Ziegler Jr., who wanted a fast and competitive racing yacht.
The GOLDENEYE is a 38-foot sloop, which means it has a single mast and a fore-and-aft rigged sail plan. It features a sleek and elegant design, with a long overhang at the bow and a graceful sheer line. The boat's hull is made of wood, typically mahogany, which gives it a beautiful and timeless appearance.
One of the notable features of the GOLDENEYE is its innovative rigging system. Herreshoff designed a unique self-tacking jib system, which allows the boat to easily maneuver and tack without the need for crew members to handle the jib sheets manually. This feature was ahead of its time and contributed to the boat's exceptional performance on the racecourse.
The GOLDENEYE gained fame for its racing success. It competed in various prestigious regattas and won numerous races, including the Newport-Bermuda Race in 1936. The boat's speed and maneuverability made it a formidable competitor, and it became a symbol of Herreshoff's design prowess.
Over the years, the GOLDENEYE has undergone several restorations to maintain its original beauty and performance. Today, it is considered a classic yacht and is highly sought after by sailing enthusiasts and collectors. The boat's timeless design and racing pedigree continue to captivate sailors and admirers alike.
