Between the group they were ready to place orders for 10 of the suddenly popular Tripp design to be built in the new radical method and material, fiberglass.

This was enough of an enticement for Hinckley to consider the enormous task of converting much (soon nearly all) of their world class wooden boatbuilding skills and operation to the new material.

That must have been a brave move in it's day, but not for too many days, as we would soon see.

10 orders were signed for Hinckleys Bermuda 40's to be delivered for the then princely sum of $31,625.00, without sails.

I often refer (above) to this little history book of the Hinckley company written by Henrys brother Benjamin.

As the boat design/building industry and the buyers moved away from this type of design asthetic (who was was chasing who?) sailboat design changed quickly for more speed, increased "dwelling" volume in the same length, and a whole new style on the water.

Now as the Hinckley company approaches their next phase, post Picnic motoryacht builder, the 100 or so B40's that were built over many years, are still one of the most popular boats in their class and if anything, are growing in their appeal.

There's a certain irony in that.