Henriques Yachts Classic Models
The Early Era boats from Henriques, like those of other builders give a good background view on the future boat line. In the case of Henriques, the company only began in 1977, so this is a short history. But the history is useful.
For one thing, Henriques didn't begin with wooden boats, as so many did, since fiberglass was already the standard by 1977. Rather, Jack Henriques was influenced by his native Portugual and some time working on boats in Maine. The company's first couple of boats reflect that influence.
35 Maine Coaster Sedan
1977- 1999. Henriques' first boats were built on a 35 foot hull. They produced both the Sedan model and a Flybridge model, built on the same hull. The hull form is a fairly deep hull with a substantial keel, but it flattens out toward the aft end. It was produced in both single and dual diesel models, allowing the buyer to favor performance or economy and range. The Sedan model is a single level design with a small enclosure on the cockpit deck and a small cabin below and forward. This is a sound fishing design used by both professionals and sport fisherman, with a large cockpit area and sparse accomodations inside. A simple V-berth forward, an enclosed head, and a galley provided the necessities. The reported displacement increased over time, probably due to increased strength to support larger diesels in later models, as well as a few improved amenities. While originally fitted with a 200 gallon fuel tank, this increased to 320 gallons in later models, to supply larger engines and to extend the range. Early models were single engine straight inboards with a large keel, skeg and attached rudder keeping the prop protected. Power is provided by a single diesel of 250-350 HP or twins of 200-220 HP, with speeds varying greatly from 12-26 knots.
35 Maine Coaster Flybridge
1977-1999. The 35 Maine Coaster was Henriques' first production boat. It wasn't even a Jersey Design boat, but rather a Downeast design popular in Maine and other areas. It too is a time-proven, seaworthy design that still survives well and would contribute to the Jersey Design. The bow has a sharp entry that handles seas smoothly. The aft sections of the hull are quite flat and shallow, but a substantial keel keeps the boat running straight. This model is also characterized by large cockpit which would become a prime characteristic of Henriques Yachts. Early models were single diesel designs with the prop protected by the large keel and a skeg to the rudder. Dual engine models were also available. Cruising speed was only about 14 knots for single engine models and 20 knots or more for dual engines, although most engines were small by today's standards. This model was popular with commercial fishermen, with six-pack charters, as dive boats and as general workboats, as well as for sportfishing. The interior was constructed in teak, including an open saloon with seating and dining table. A small but complete galley down a step, as well as an enclosed head. The forward stateroom is enclosed with a double berth offset on the port side. This was Henriques' only boat model, in Sedan and Flybrige, for the first 5 years or so, and it was the primary reason for the company's success. Power is provided by a single diesel of 250-350 HP or twins of 200-220 HP.
44 Sportfisherman
1983-2004. The 44 Sportfisherman came on the market about 1983 as the second offering from Henriques Yachts and would also be a very successful model. Although originally named a Maine Coaster, building on the company's first product, it would gradually become known as the Sportfisherman. This model is a true Jersey Design, rather than the Downeast design of the original Maine Coaster. The 44 Sportfisherman was designed from the beginning to be a dual engine boat with much faster speeds than the original 35 model, cruising at a reported 25 knots. The hull is redesigned without the deep keel, and only a small keel for tracking, while retaining flatter sections aft to improve performance. Above deck, the freeboard is high in the bow and tapers to a much lower level at the transom for easy fish handling. This model was designed with a flybridge and a single control station and a solid windshield even in early models, leaving the cabin clear for interior design purposes. This model was available in 1 and 2 stateroom layouts. The interior was originally constructed in teak, and later in white ash, for a lighter look. This model retains a very large cockpit of 170 sq. ft., a Henriques standard feature. Power was provided by twin diesels from Detroit and Caterpiller of 500-660 HP, providing a cruise of 24-28 knots and full speed over 30 knots.