I love sailing little boats. I sail on the local lakes as well
as the nearby straits. The ocean frequently whips up some steep
seas that concern me and would terrify my friends and the special-needs
adults I work with.
A year ago, I began building a Seaclipper 16 trimaran, designed
by John Marples. I chose this trimaran for its stability yet speed.
I also wanted this seating arrangement where the crew needn't
scramble from side to side while tacking. It is also wonderful
that the boat and sails can be controlled from both cockpits.
John Marple's plans are wonderfully clear and easy to follow.
I was able to do most of the building inside an unheated shop,
so work could continue most days through the winter.
Here, one of the amas is about ready to be
turned over to work on the decking.
The work on the main hull moved to a car port
just before it got too wide to make it out of the shop door.
Also in time for warmer spring weather.
I am using a Hobie 14 mast and sails. All the information for
using that rig as well as using optional aluminum tubing for the
cross beams is included in John's plans.
The boat folds easily for trailing.
I can assemble the boat by myself, though it is nice to have
a hand flipping the amas into sailing position. I use the trailer
winch to raise the mast with no trauma.
This picture was taken the day of the launch.
The boat sails nearly flat and easily reaches 6 knots in light
winds. I've reached nearly 10 knots in moderate winds.
On Father's Day, I went for my first sail in a protected strait
near Comox, BC, Canada. The water was very choppy and the winds
were 10 - 15 knots. The boat rocked with the waves, but didn't
do any rolling
other than in the wake of big boats. That sail was exciting, but
not scary. Like downhill skiing. I was recording speeds of 6 knots
in the chop, and up to 8 knots when I got into a harbour where
the water was
calmer, but the winds not diminished.
Back in the choppy water, I tied in a reef and all the action
settled down, perfect for touring. Also great for touring is the
amount of storage space ahead and behind the cockpits.
I made a short video that day from the cockpit. Full sail and
beating into the wind at about 6 knots.
I am streamlining my assembly and I still have too many lines
to sort out, including the great pedal steering. Once I am on
the water and sailing along I realize the nuisance of getting
there is well worth it. I am looking forward to taking my friends
and special-needs clients on some adventures they never dreamed
of.
