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Sailboat Specifications

M 16 Scow

Frac. Sloop (Rotating Spar) · Scow Twin Cbrd.

Designed by Johnson/Melges Boat Works · Built by Windward Boatworks · First built 1950

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LOA 16.00 ft  ·  Beam 5.80 ft  ·  Displacement 440.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 147.00 ft²  ·  Frac. Sloop (Rotating Spar)  ·  Scow Twin Cbrd.
About the M 16 Scow Sailboat

Scow designs have carved out a distinctive niche in sailing, and this particular model represents the traditional characteristics that define this unique hull form. Built for speed and shallow-water sailing, scows feature their trademark wide, flat-bottomed hull with hard chines that create exceptional stability and impressive performance in moderate conditions. This design excels in protected waters, inland lakes, and coastal areas where shallow drafts prove advantageous. The scow's generous beam provides remarkable initial stability, making it confidence-inspiring for sailors transitioning from smaller boats. When conditions are right, these boats can achieve exhilarating speeds that often surprise newcomers to the type. The M 16 Scow suits recreational sailing and informal racing, particularly appealing to sailors who appreciate responsive handling and the ability to access shallow anchorages inaccessible to deeper-draft vessels. However, potential owners should understand that scows perform best in their intended environment of relatively protected waters rather than challenging offshore conditions. While detailed specifications remain limited, the fundamental scow characteristics suggest a boat that rewards active sailing with engaging performance, offering an authentic connection to a time-honored design philosophy that prioritizes speed and shallow-water capability over heavy-weather ocean sailing.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 16.00 ft / 4.88 m
Beam 5.80 ft / 1.77 m
Displacement 440.00 lb / 200 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 147.00 ft² / 13.66 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Scow Twin Cbrd.
Rigging Type Frac. Sloop (Rotating Spar)
Construction FG
Designer Johnson/Melges Boat Works
Builder Windward Boatworks
First Built 1950
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the M 16 Scow's sail area to displacement ratio?

The M 16 Scow has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 40.71. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

Is the M 16 Scow safe for offshore sailing?

The M 16 Scow has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 3.05. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

How much does a M 16 Scow weigh?

The M 16 Scow has a displacement of 440.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 16.00 ft.

Who designed the M 16 Scow?

The M 16 Scow was designed by Johnson/Melges Boat Works, first built in 1950.