I like it:
(Photos courtesy Ross Lillistone)
I haven’t written about Ross’ designs recently, but I’m a regular follower via his blog, http://rosslillistonewoodenboat.blogspot.com/.
And I’ve been following his progress with FLEET. Her launching was on April 22nd.
From his blog:
“The hull shape is similar to the designs of the late William H. Hand, said to have been the inventor of the vee-bottomed motorboat. What made the William Hand designs significant was the way they would handle well at lower speeds when throttled back. Weston Farmer said of them, ”They were steerable throughout their entire range of speed in following seas. The full planing boat is a dog in this department. Unless they are banging along full bore, you cannot steer them. And full bore in some seaways with this type of boat, demands Polident for the helmsman’s teeth and metal brassiers for the ladies.” (“From My Old Boat Shop” International Marine 1979.) Now, I think planing hull design has come some way since Weston Farmer formed his opinion, and there are some very fine designs around for full planing hulls, but the fact remains that for moderate planing and semi-planing speeds, a long, narrow Hand-style hull can be superb.”
Ross’ design brief:
“As I mention previously, I believe that there is a genuine need for small powerboats which have been optimised for operation under the urge of very small outboards. I nervously await the performance report from the first outing, which will be within the next three days. This example with be pushed by a 5hp Mercury, and has been built a little heavier than initially planned due to the rugged duties expected of her. A very light version, built in a manner similar to Flint, should go well with 2-1/2 to 4hp.”
And a look at her lines:
There aren’t any details yet (that I can find) on the specs of the boat herself, or the cost of plans. I’m guessing she’s similar to Ross’ FLINT design, at 14′-something. FLEET is designed to be built stitch-and-glue.
Here’s the url of Ross’ blog:
http://rosslillistonewoodenboat.blogspot.com/2012/04/low-powered-planing-hull-lessons-learnt.html. There’s a pretty funny story of Ross finishing the plans and sending them off, hours prior to leaving on holiday.
And his main website:
http://www.baysidewoodenboats.com.au/
I think I like this design — a lot. I’m looking forward to following her evolution.
What do you think? Please post your comments below.
Thanks, Carl