Two years after the launch of the Yawl, Devoncraft, the original builder, saw a need for a version of the Yawl with a cuddy, and in 1970 the first Devon Dayboat was launched.

The concept was based on keeping the same hull and sailplan, and therefore the sailing performance of the Yawl, but to offer added comfort in blustery weather; somewhere to put the children out of the wind; somewhere to brew up during a long day’s fishing; somewhere dry and snug to sleep when dinghy cruising.

The Dayboat has proved itself time and time again, and over time detail improvements to the rig and fittings have increased the benefits associated with the design.While the early version of the Dayboat may be an ugly duckling to some eyes, it does have a tendency to grow in one’s affection.

The Mark 2 version with square cuddy is easier on the eye and also offers less wind resistance and as a result better sailing performance, yet retains all the practicalities associated with the earlier version.