Henriques Yachts Classic Models
The Early Era boats from Henriques, like those of other builders give a good background view on the future boat line. In the case of Henriques, the company only began in 1977, so this is a short history. But the history is useful.
For one thing, Henriques didn't begin with wooden boats, as so many did, since fiberglass was already the standard by 1977. Rather, Jack Henriques was influenced by his native Portugual and some time working on boats in Maine. The company's first couple of boats reflect that influence.
35 Maine Coaster Sedan
1977- 1985. Henriques' first boats were built on a 35 foot hull. They produced both the Sedan model, shown here, and a flybridge model, built on the same hull. Both were simple fishing boats designed almost exclusively for fishing, with large cockpit areas and sparse accomodations inside. But they were sound fishing machines used by both professionals and sport fisherman. This was a single level design with a small enclosure on the cockpit deck and a small cabin forward. Early models, especially in the Sedan were single engine straight inboards with a large keel, skeg and attached rudder. So the prop was very protected.
35 Maine Coaster Flybridge
1977-1991. The 35 Maine Coaster was Henriques' first production boat. It wasn't even a Jersey Design boat, but rather a Downeast design popular in Maine and other areas. It too is a time-proven, seaworthy design that still survives well. The bow had a sharp entry that handled seas and waves. The aft sections of the hull were quite flat and shallow, but a substantial keel kept the boat running straight. This model was also characterized by a substantial and unobstructed cockpit which would become a prime characteristic of Henriques Yachts. Early models were single diesel designs with the prop protected by the large keel and a skeg to the rudder. Dual engine models were also produced and were probably made available later. Cruising speed was only about 14 knots for single engine models and 20 knots or more for dual engines, although most engines were small by today's standards. This model was popular with commercial fishermen, with six-pack charters, as dive boats and as general workboats, as well as for sportfishing. This was Henriques' only boat model for the first 5 years or so, and it was the primary reason for the company's success.
38 Sportfisherman
1987-Present. The 38 Sportfisherman was introduced in 1987, about 4 years after the 44. The 44 was now being called a Sportfisherman. The 38 was called a Sportfisherman from day 1. Henriques was onboard with the Jersey Design! The 38 was a Jersey fishermans boat. It was fast, making 23-25 knots, had a sharp entry with a flared bow, and a low cockpit. The cockpit, at 140 square feet, was large for a 38, but typical for a Henriques. Power was provided by twin diesels from Volvo or Caterpillar of 375-400 HP.
44 Maine Coaster
1983-2004. The 44 Maine Coaster came on the market about 1983 as the second offering from Henriques Yachts and would also be a successful model. Although originally named a Maine Coaster, building on the company's first product, this boat obviously reflects the influence of the company's New Jersey location. It would gradually be renamed a Maine Coaster Sportfisherman then just a Sportfisherman. The 44 Maine Coaster was designed from the beginning to be a dual engine boat with much faster speeds than the original 35 model, cruising at a reported 25 knots. This model was designed with an original flybridge, including the control station, leaving the cabin clear for interior design purposes. Still this model retains a very large cockpit, a Henriques standard attribute and a Maine Coaster feature.