Fowey, Cornwall boat builder Marcus Lewis has sent in some photos of his latest project, a 14ft Mayflower dinghy that he’s currently building to take to the Southampton Boat Show.
Mayflowers, which are gunter-rigged and have steel centreplates, were formerly made in Plymouth by Skentlebery’s. If this sounds like the boat you’re looking for, I’d contact him soon as it might well sell at the show!
Meanwhile, those who saw the last set of photos from Marcus may be pleased to know that the newest Fowey River dinghy, No 61, swept the board in its class with eight wins in eight races. We were told that the folks that commissioned the boat were experienced racers, but Marcus will have every reason to be delighted with such success.
PS On the 4th September local small boat sailors have organised their two-yearly Try a Troy Day. Everyone’s invited to turn up to the Fowey Gallants Sailing Club between 10.30 and 2.30 to be taken out for a sail in a Troy, completely free – donations to junior sailing at the club will be accepted however! Marcus says that they usually get 100-120 people turning up, and that it’s a really great day, weather permitting!
Gavin, glad to find you again. Love your "in the boat shed".
At last, photos of a fabulous, traditional clinker boat, built by a craftsman rather than yet another clinker/ply job masquerading as the real thing. Steamed timbers and copper roves all in a row, against the warm glow of solid timber. Feast your eyes…
I know I am biased, but can anything really compare with a thing of such beauty and necessary complexity?
It's always a great pleasure to post something like this – but I can only publish what I'm given or manage to photograph myself…