Online Exclusives is an eclectic mix of current news, curiosities, articles, and extended content related to WoodenBoat magazine features and departments.
I have developed a “new” mast construction method for use on light- to moderate-displacement sailboats having a Marconi rig, and for motorsailers. I put “new” in quotes because I am sure it has been thought of before now.
In early 1985 I searched South Florida for a place to set up a small informal boatyard—really just a place to build my newly-designed Exuma 44 cat schooner in cold-molded wood.
For over 35 years I have lived, on and off, as a cruising sailor. In addition to designing, building and restoring wooden boats, this has been my life. In all those years, I have learned a lot, and made a lot of observations.
Around 1991, Jon Eaton (my editor at International Marine Publishing) suggested that I write a book about sharpies. He knew I was a fan of the type (inshore fishing/oystering/crabbing boats), and I gladly accepted the assignment.
17' 9" glued lap strake sapele plywood with ribbon Sipo mahogany bright work.
Mahogany planked on oiled oak frames. Spruce spars and stainless rigging.
SUNDANCE II "Colonia" sailing dinghy designed in 1901 by Nathanael G. Herreshoff.
Restored in ME by Jonathan Minott (seen in WB "Launchings" July/Aug 2009).
