1907 Herreshoff P-Boat, US $x, Chester Yacht Club, Nova Scotia
DESCRIPTION
A Legendary Racing Yacht with an Unmatched Heritage
SENECA is an historic Herreshoff P-Boat, HMCo. #670. Few classic yachts can match the storied pedigree and modern readiness of the 1907 Herreshoff P-Class SENECA. Conceived by the “Wizard of Bristol” Nathanael G. Herreshoff—famed designer of multiple successful America’s Cup defenders—SENECA was built to defend the prestigious 1907 Canada’s Cup. Her daring lines and rapid acceleration astounded the competition as she defeated the Canadian challenger ADELE in a resounding 3–0 series victory.
Renowned for her ability to continue winning races, SENECA offers the thrilling helm balance that made Herreshoff designs legendary. Her moderate displacement, fine entry, and modern rig yield performance akin to a much younger racing yacht—yet every sailing experience is imbued with a century of tradition.
Today, SENECA stands as an enduring icon of early 20th-century yacht design and racing innovation. Extensively restored and upgraded while preserving her authentic spirit, she is that rare combination of a proven historic competitor and a ready-to-sail treasure.
Historical Significance:
Nathanael G. Herreshoff Masterpiece: Built in 1907 at the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company (HMCo #670).
Triumphant Defender: Successfully defended the 1907 Canada’s Cup in a best-of-five series, earning her a lasting place in sailing lore.
Distinguished Provenance: Changed hands among notable yachtsmen; she spent time with the Royal Canadian Yacht Club and continued to excel in Great Lakes and East Coast events.
SENECA’s Half Hull is displayed in the New York Yacht Club’s Model Room
Click here to read more history.
DIMENSIONS
LOA: 47 ft
LWL: 32 ft 4 in
Beam: 9 ft
Draft: 6 ft 8 in
Ballast: 10,000 lb lead keel
Displacement: ~12 tons
CONSTRUCTION & COMPLETE REFIT IN 2007:
In 2005 a syndicate headed by Lee Sweet of Chester, Nova Scotia, brought SENECA to Tern’s Chester Basin shop to start an extensive refit. Tern Boatworks refastened the keel, completely rebuilt the deck, replaced garboard planks, strakes, her stem, and other areas weakened by her age. She was repainted, refit with new deck hardware, rigged and launched in time for her 100th birthday.
Hull Material: Yellow pine over white oak; rebuilt areas finished with double-planked cedar topsides and fiberglass-sheathed deck.
Complete Structural Rebuild: Major hull restoration, fresh fasteners, and new finishes throughout.
Modern Carbon Rig (2016): Carbon-fiber mast and aluminum boom combine classic style with state-of-the-art performance and weight savings.
Vetus 32HP Diesel Engine: Reliable inboard diesel with 20-gallon fuel capacity for fuss-free maneuvering and cruising.
Ongoing Upgrades & Maintenance: Her 2022 liability insurance survey notes Seneca has had consistent care and improvements.
ON DECK & BELOW:
Flush Deck Sloop: Clean lines and ample working space, with Harken hardware and self-tailing winches for efficient sail handling.
Classic Cockpit: Self-draining and comfortable, with a teak grate for style and practicality.
Minimalist Interior: True to her racing heritage, basic accommodations and a spacious engine bay.
Modern Safety & Systems: Updated electrical panel, battery banks, and engine installation meet contemporary standards while respecting her classic design.
EQUIPMENT:
Sails & Rig: Carbon Fiber
Mast & Boom 2016
Shrouds & Stays new 2016Harken furling system (Jib)
Mainsail & Jib
Wooden Tiller
ARCO HUTTON 56 Winch
2 ARCO HUTTON 50 Winches
ARCO HUTTON 20 Winch
Old Aluminum mast available
Instruments:
Tack Tick - Speed/Depth/Wind
Ground Tackle:
Aluminum Fortress
Why Seneca?
The next owner of SENECA will become a steward of a living piece of American yachting history. Her proven record on the racecourse, combined with her extensive restorations, makes her equally at home chasing silver or embarking on spirited coastal cruises.
For those seeking a rare Herreshoff with documented provenance, museum-worthy significance, and turn-key readiness, SENECA is an unparalleled opportunity. Inquire now to schedule a viewing and begin the next chapter in this champion yacht’s extraordinary story.
Survey available upon request (March 2022).
Disclaimer
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.