by William Garden, N.A.
This little ketch was designed originally for the Portland Sea Explorer Association in response to the need for an all-around boat to replace the whaleboats and other miscellaneous types. The old boats had turned in years of good service, but in view of repair costs and difficulties in racing as a class, they were a losing proposition for low budgets, plus a widening realization by the Association of the training value in class racing. Several possibilities were examined and the final result was dictated by requirements for light weight and the use of marine plywood. In studying the plans it will become apparent that this is a specialized boat suitable for beaching to unload a crew of boys and their gear as well as affording performance under sail or oars. Eight or ten boys could have a wonderful two weeks cruising with such a boat along an interesting coast line. You will note that there is no provision for a motor, but it has three pair of oarlocks. In calm weather she can be rowed at a fair speed to make an anchorage and the crew can sleep on board or come ashore. Under sail she will be an excellent performer with the lead shoe plus live ballast. Eight boys to windward will provide stability in a real breeze and the rig can be shortened down readily by pulling the mizzen or tucking a reef in the main. Two headsails are shown; in light weather the 270 Genoa Jib will give a lot of power to keep her competitive and a spinnaker may be fitted. The basic reasoning behind the shoal draft was to make the boat portable with the ability to be trucked into other areas for exploring and for regattas. As she is designed, the concept fits in with a summer came use and other specialized service.
HOME PAGE
