1 Hinckley Sailing Yachts for Sale
Browse our 1 Hinckley sailing yachts listing and learn more about Hinckley, the company that built them
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Hera - Hinckley Sou'wester 42
About Hinckley
Hinckley is one of the most respected names in American boatbuilding, with a heritage that stretches back nearly a century to the coast of Maine. Founded in 1928 by Henry R. Hinckley in Southwest Harbor, the company began as a small boat shop serving the yachting community of Mount Desert Island — the same waters that draw some of the most discerning sailors in the world.
The company's reputation was cemented in the 1960s with the Bermuda 40, a Bill Tripp-designed sloop that became the gold standard for offshore cruising sailboats. The B-40, as it's known, combined elegant lines, robust construction, and genuine bluewater capability in a way that few production boats had achieved before. It remains one of the most sought-after classic sailboats on the secondary market, with well-maintained examples commanding strong prices decades after leaving the factory.
In 1994, Hinckley made a bold move that would define the modern company: the launch of the Picnic Boat, a jet-drive day boat that combined the company's traditional craftsmanship with innovative propulsion technology. The jet drive eliminated the exposed propeller and rudder, creating a boat that could operate in shallow waters, approach beaches, and dock with remarkable manoeuvrability. The Picnic Boat line expanded into a range of sizes and became Hinckley's best-selling product, attracting a new generation of owners who valued the combination of luxury, safety, and ease of handling.
Today, Hinckley operates yacht yards in Maine, offering new boat sales, brokerage, full-service maintenance, and winter storage. The brand occupies a unique position in the American market — a boutique builder with the prestige of a European luxury brand but deeply rooted in New England maritime tradition. Hinckley boats are built to a standard that justifies premium pricing, and their resale values reflect the enduring demand for quality craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hinckley
Where are Hinckley boats built?
Hinckley boats are built in Southwest Harbor, Maine, where the company was founded in 1928. The Hinckley Company also operates yacht service yards along the Maine coast and in other locations. The Maine boatbuilding heritage is central to the brand's identity and reputation for craftsmanship.
What is a Hinckley Picnic Boat?
The Hinckley Picnic Boat is a luxury jet-drive day boat introduced in 1994. It uses waterjet propulsion instead of a traditional propeller, allowing shallow-water operation, beach approaches, and exceptional low-speed manoeuvrability. The line ranges from about 34 to 42 feet and is Hinckley's most popular product.
Why are Hinckley boats so expensive?
Hinckley boats command premium prices because of their exceptional build quality, hand-crafted construction, premium materials, and the brand's nearly century-long reputation. Each boat involves significant hand labour and attention to detail. The jet-drive Picnic Boats also incorporate sophisticated propulsion technology. Strong resale values help offset the initial cost.
What is the Hinckley Bermuda 40?
The Bermuda 40 (also known as the B-40) is a Bill Tripp-designed cruising sloop built by Hinckley from the early 1960s. It is widely regarded as one of the finest offshore cruising sailboats ever built, combining elegant design with robust construction and genuine bluewater capability. Well-maintained examples remain highly sought after on the brokerage market.
How do Hinckley boats hold their value?
Hinckley boats generally hold their value exceptionally well compared to most production boats. The brand's prestige, build quality, and limited production numbers create sustained demand on the secondary market. The Bermuda 40 and Picnic Boat lines are particularly strong performers for resale value.