1962 Rhodes 19 - does it float?

Jul 24, 2020
15
Oday Rhodes 19 Lake George
I'm working on fixing up my new-to-me 1962 Rhodes 19 centerboard. The previous owner said it almost went over once when the wind changed directions - the wood frame on the top cabin edge was in the water but he managed to release the jib before it went fully over. I've only gone over in my dad's Hobie Holder 12 which has flotation somewhere in it.

I see that the seats hold air and the front can more or less be closed off, but does this float if swamped?
 
Jun 2, 2004
1,923
Oday Day Sailer Wareham, MA
It should! The seats do hold air, but are also partly filled with foam, which may be a bit waterlogged after all these years.
 
Oct 19, 2017
7,732
O'Day 19 Littleton, NH
They are suppose to have positive floatation, but I wouldn't count on the floatation from 1962. The Rhodes 19 is a very capable boat. My Mariner 19 is the same boat with a cabin and modified rigging. You needn't worry about going over, unless you are really pushing her or you sail where threw winds are very unpredictable.

-Will (Dragonfly)