In 2023–2024 the iconic New York 40 Rowdy underwent a complete spar and rig renewal, returning the yacht to a configuration that closely reflects her original Nathanael G. Herreshoff design while meeting the structural and performance demands of modern classic racing.
After the loss of her Bermudan rig during a severe squall at the Imperia Regatta in 2022, Rowdy’s owners elected not simply to replace the spars, but to undertake a historically informed reconstruction of her original gaff rig. This decision marked a significant step in preserving both the yacht’s authenticity and her long‑term future as a competitive and seaworthy classic.

Research‑driven design
The project began with extensive archival research in collaboration with the Herreshoff Maritime Museum and MIT, where Herreshoff’s original plans are held. Particular attention was paid to the evolution of the New York 40 rig, including Herreshoff’s early design revisions that introduced a bowsprit and increased headsail area to reduce weather helm.
While the external geometry of the spars follows the original drawings with great accuracy, modern naval‑architectural analysis was applied to ensure structural integrity under contemporary sailing loads. Adjustments were made internally—without altering the yacht’s appearance—to account for modern sail materials, running rigging, and racing use.

Spar construction by Brasker
Brasker was commissioned to build the new mast, boom, and gaff. Sitka spruce was selected for its strength‑to‑weight characteristics, with all timber mechanically tested to ensure consistent structural performance.
The spars were traditionally built using multi‑stave hollow construction—eight staves for mast and boom, and six for the gaff—allowing precise control of stiffness and weight. Where required, internal reinforcement and locally harder timber species were incorporated in high‑load areas, ensuring durability while preserving the visual and structural character of an early 20th‑century racing yacht.

Authentic form, modern reliability
The result is a rig that is visually and proportionally faithful to Rowdy’s original appearance, yet engineered to safely withstand modern sail loads and offshore conditions. The new gaff rig enhances both performance and handling, while restoring the yacht’s historical balance and sail plan.

A benchmark classic refit
This project stands as an example of how deep historical research, traditional craftsmanship, and modern engineering can be successfully combined. The new rig not only renews Rowdy’s identity as one of the most significant surviving New York 40s, but also allows her to continue racing and cruising at the highest level of the classic yacht world.