The FEATHER is made using "C-FLEX" fiberglass planking. The strips of fiberglass planking are laid around and stapled to a framework and covered with fiberglass laminate. This is one of the processes specified on larger "one-off" fiberglass designs. The FEATHER makes an excellent "first" project for those interested in building a larger boat using this method. Most of the form members are removed from the boat after the hull is built, leaving an all-fiberglass hull free of exposed frame members. This boat, like the FOAMEE, looks so "molded" that people who see it will find it hard to believe you built it.
The slippery shaped round bilge hull coupled with a generous sloop rig means that FEATHER is a real performer. The daggerboard trunk is formed "in place" to insure that it is leak-proof and offers minimal resistance. Molded-in flotation chambers make the boat unsinkable and form the sitting areas along each side of the cockpit.
The compact size means you can carry the boat in a station wagon, pick-up truck, or even on the car top. The detailed pictorial instructions, based on prototype testing, make construction virtually fool-proof so that it is both possible and practical for the homebuilder to make his own fiberglass sailboat.
Note: This design could also be built using the cold-molded method, but no details are given.
- Length overall:
- 11'-0"
- Beam:
- 4'-6"
- Depth amidships:
- 21"
- Average passengers:
- 2-3
- Weight (approx.):
- 150 lbs.
- Sail area:
Main - 50 sq. ft.
Jib - 30 sq. ft.
Total - 80 sq. ft.- Hull type:
- Round bilge hull form, designed for fiberglass planking with fiberglass laminate.
- Sail type:
- Sloop rig with daggerboard.
- Power:
- Short shaft outboard motor to 3 hp.
- Trailer:
- Designed for use with Glen-L Series 650 boat trailer plans.
