Description
First Mate has the same rigs and layout as the very successful Phoenix III, but uses an easy-to-build stitch-and-glue hull. Primary dimensions are 15ft x 5ft x 5-1/2inches.
- Three rig options are included in the plans
- 65 page colour-illustrated instruction manual
- Plans contain 31 sheets of A3 drawings, plus 1 A4 drawing
- Designed to be sailed, rowed, or powered by a small outboard
- Lightweight "Stitch-and-Glue" wood/epoxy construction
- Built-in buoyancy tanks
- Pivoting centreboard and rudder
- Rig stows within length of boat for trailering
Some years ago, I designed a 15ft x 4-1/2ft glued-lapstrake (clinker) beachcruiser called Phoenix III. This boat came about in response to an enquiry I had received from Paul Hernes, of Caloundra, Queensland, Australia. Paul wanted a boat which would operate well under sail, oars, and very small outboard motor, and he was keen to build a round-bilged lapstrake (clinker) hull.
For many years prior to this request, I had agonized over what I considered to be the optimum dimensions for a boat which could be used for serious beach-cruising with one, and very occasionally, two people. However, as day-sailing is the most frequent mode of operation for any boat, I hoped the chosen dimensions would be suitable for casual day outings as well.
As good performance under oars was a high priority, the dimensions I selected promised a fairly slim boat, which suited my purpose well, as it also promised to give a nice, fine entry at the bow, which would help to produce a soft and dry action in a head sea. My final selection came out at 15 feet x 4-1/2 feet, with a draft of somewhere near six inches.
Paulâs boat has proved to be an exceptionally successful craft, and she now has a number of sisters sailing the waters of the world.
The internal layout of Phoenix III works extremely well in use, and the versatility of having a number of different rig options in addition to rowing and powering have made her a popular design. However, it seems that many people are intimidated by the prospect of building a lapstrake (clinker) boat. Therefore, I designed a stitch-and-glue plywood hull with an identical internal layout, using the identical rigs. This boat became First Mate.
First Mate is a much quicker boat to build due to the fact that a strong-back and mold arrangement is not required for the hull. Panel shapes and frames are marked-out directly on the plywood from accurately dimensioned drawings, and are simply assembled using electrical cable-ties or twisted copper wire. The resulting structure is checked for any un-wanted twist, and is then locked together permanently with glass tape set in epoxy.
You will discover that First Mate, at 5 feet,is slightly wider than her predecessor. This is because of her cross-sectional shape, and is necessary to retain the stability of Phoenix III - in fact, First Mate is slightly more stable and the wider side decks add to the effectiveness of crew weight in a blow.
All of the rigs designed for Phoenix III work perfectly in First Mate, and the internal layout is the same.
Ross Lillistone
Video:
Additional Information
Measurements: |
Metric & Imperial |
Plans: |
Include 65 pages of 8-1/2 x 11 instruction manual plus 32 drawings set to print at 11 x 17 |
Designer Name: |
Ross Lillistone |
Product Name: |
First Mate Plans PDF |
Sail area (Imperial / Metric): |
76 sq.ft / 7.06 sq. m to 104 sq.ft / 9.66 sq. m |
Rig Type: |
Lug, Sloop, Sprit |
Ballast Weight: |
Human |
Keel Type: |
Centerboard |
Rudder: |
Kick-up |
Length (range): |
8' - 15'11"' / 2.44m - 4.85m |
LOA: |
15' 0-1/4" / 4.58m |
Length at Waterline: |
13' 3-1/2" / 4.052m |
Beam: |
5' / 1.524m |
Hull Weight: |
85 - 199 lbs / 38.56 - 90.27kg |
Estimated Hull Weight: |
165lbs / 75kg including rig |
Draft: |
Under 6" / 15.24cm |
Unloaded Draft: |
5-7/8" / 148mm |
Weight Capacity: |
702lbs / 319kg |
Primary Material: |
Marine Plywood |
Method of Construction: |
Stitch and Glue |
Hull: |
Monohull |
Hull Type: |
Displacement |
Hull Shape: |
Flat bottom |
Power Source: |
Electric, Human, Internal Combustion, Wind |
Motor: |
Outboard |
Horsepower Rating: |
2.5hp |
Built-in Floatation: |
Yes |
Trailerable: |
Yes |
Cartop: |
No |
Unit of Measure: |
Both |
Instruction Manual: |
Step-by-Step Instructions |
Lofting Required: |
No |
Recommended Experience Level: |
Intermediate |
Designer's Thoughts on Experience Level: |
Intermediate level, but a determined beginner can build this boat |
Boat Type: |
Sailboat |