Rowena is a true classic sailing yacht designed by renowned American naval architect Philip L. Rhodes. A sister ship to the celebrated Thunderhead, Rowena combines timeless beauty with the sure-footed, sea-kindly sailing qualities for which Rhodes designs are known. Built by the esteemed Lester Stone Yard of Alameda, California, Rowena is constructed of solid mahogany planking; bronze fastened throughout and reflects the highest standards of traditional American yacht building. Her comfortable, open interior plan is well suited to extended cruising, while her proven offshore pedigree inspires confidence in both heavy weather and light airs. 

With well over 100,000 ocean miles beneath her keel, Rowena has demonstrated herself to be a fast, safe, and remarkably comfortable cruising yacht. Her deep cockpit, protected by a substantial hard dodger, is thoughtfully arranged for shorthanded sailing. Large primary winches, lazy jacks for the mainsail, and a Profurl roller-furling genoa make sail handling straightforward and efficient. Her clipper bow, cutter rig, and graceful sheer continue to turn heads under sail and at the dock alike. 

Over six decades, Rowena has benefited from a succession of dedicated owners who sailed her extensively and maintained her with exceptional care. Her distinguished history includes the Transpac races of 1965, 1969, 1971, and 1973; a second-place finish in the 1991 San Diego to Maui Race; and third place in the Ocean I Division of the 1992 Master Mariners Regatta. 

In recent years, Rowena has continued to fulfill her purpose as a serious cruising yacht, exploring the waters of British Columbia, Southeast Alaska, Haida Gwaii, and the rugged outer coast of Vancouver Island. She is not a museum piece, but a proven cruising vessel that remains active, capable, and ready for her next adventure. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a classic yacht of exceptional pedigree, enduring beauty, and demonstrated capability. Rowena is ready to carry her next steward on a voyage of their own.

Rowena will be out cruising this summer in the Pacific Northwest, please contact Swiftsure Yachts broker for details and to arrange a showing.

"See Rowena at the 2026 Port Townsend Wooden Boat Show September 11-13, 2026"