This is the first record of an ocean-race, and we all know that the waters between Dublin and Holyhead, in a gale of wind, are a severe test of any vessel's qualities as a sea-boat.
That she was "built upon two keels" is at first sight somewhat confusing. We remember, however, that the Saxons made their descent on Britain in boats covered with leather that they called "caele," from which is derived the English word "keel,"—a boat or barge used in the north of England,—carrying 21 ton 4 cwt. or a "keel of coals." It is probable that Petty may have taken two of these keels, and connected them, or he may have constructed two new keels for this purpose.
Pepys again writes "January 22nd, 1664: To Deptford, and there viewed Sir W. Petty's vessel; which hath an odd appearance, but not such as people do make of it"; and February 1st: "Thence to White Hall; where, in the Duke's chamber, the King come and stayed an hour or two laughing at Sir W. Petty, who was there about his boat; and at Gresham College in general; at which poor Petty was, I perceive, at some loss; but did argue discreetly, and bear the unreasonable follies of the King's objections, and other bystanders, with great discretion; and offered to make oddes against the King's best boates; but the King would not lay, but cried him down with words only."
It does not appear that the Experiment ever raced again. Eventually she was lost with all hands, during a violent gale in the Bay of Biscay.
