Rowhedge Raider

I designed this boat for a Classic Boat Magazine design competition for a "raid boat" - my original inspiration was Phil Bolger's "Thomaston Galley" which I had recently built and that is where the basic hull form comes from - however from that point on, as well as making a much bigger boat with a canoe stern, I have incorporated quite a few ideas which are not common - so perhaps that's why the design disappeared without trace! I think it would be an interesting project but not appealing to everyone - one aspect is that stiffness is compromised for rowing qualities. However I think the boat would "feel" rather like a Swampscott Dory, and is definitely a seaworthy type - anyway it is offered here for interest

The Plan Price is £55 - this reflects a current absence of building instruction. The plans consist of 3 A1 sheets: lines and offsets; construction; sail plan (scale 1:10). Lofting required for best results........

This design for a crew of two (when “raiding”) is developed within the constraints of reasonable economy and “ease of use” - including provision for reasonable comfort, accommodation and endurance as an independant camping cruiser. The design is aimed to attract the competent amateur boatbuilder and sailor – it's probably not a beginner's boat!
The hull is easily driven, relatively long and directionally stable, acceptable for two rowers with single oars, and with average sail area. The interior layout and rig are conceived so that all spars will stow in the boat, and there is stowage room for other equipment needed for cruising. A small outboard may be used, and there is room to stow it - but this is not a feature of the design.
The size of the boat gives a versatile craft and her weight and length will give a fairly sedate ride despite the initial tenderness of the hull form. The plywood construction retains a certain traditional aesthetic appeal and the plans allow the thoughtful builder choices over details, and to reduce weight, without affecting the overall concept.
The gunter yawl rig, chosen to stow easily, allows different sail combinations for different conditions and purposes. The sprit-type mizzen can be brailed up easily and quickly. The mainmast is deck-stepped but light, so a tabernacle is not required. The mainsail “boom” gooseneck arrangement maximises the possible sail area. The sail area achieved should drive the boat well except in light airs to windward when recourse to the oars may be a faster option.

As designed there is a double tiller - The principal (upper) tiller pivots up for rowing and camping. The lower tiller allows for the helm to be controlled when both crew are rowing through tiller lines. The rudder is shallow but powerful, balanced, and justified by the directional stability and draught of this hull form - the choice simplifies other elements of the design (and it is not difficult to make). The rudder can be easily removed by unbolting the tillers, though it should not normally impede launching and beaching.
The daggerboard is chosen for light weight and simplicity, and is offset to keep cokpit sole clear - on one tack water ingress is possible when the boat heels too far at speed - a suitable sponge in the top will ameliorate this and performance variation from tack to tack will be negligible.
Looking at safety rules: the boat should be self-rescuing (from upside down) with two crew; a single-hander might have difficulty if the boat turns turtle. There is provision for water ballast in compartments under sole (or metal ballast for that matter) for single-handing and extra stability. Substantial rubbers are provided on the bottom of the boat not only for beaching but also for helping the crew climb onto an upturned boat.
Four fenders are planned to function variously as: buoyancy, beach rollers, and “stabilisers” for the hull when beached or afloat (tucked under bilges). A tent can be slung between the stepped masts - a hooped tent would also fit well, and a fabric sprayhood/cuddy could be added. Slats can be set up between the side benches to form a raised sleeping platform.