Skimmer

Designed by William Crosby in 1933, this compact centerboard dinghy represents classic small boat design from sailing's golden age. Built from plans intended for amateur constructors, the Skimmer features traditional wood planked construction with single chine hull form that balances simplicity with seaworthiness. At just under 11 feet overall, this nimble dinghy excels in protected waters, harbors, and coastal sailing where its shallow 1.83-foot draft allows exploration of thin water areas larger boats cannot access. The catboat rig with its single sail configuration makes the Skimmer particularly appealing for solo sailing or teaching new sailors, eliminating the complexity of managing multiple sails while maintaining excellent control. With a displacement of only 300 pounds and 65 square feet of sail area, the boat delivers spirited performance in light to moderate conditions. The generous beam of 4.5 feet provides stability despite the compact size, while the centerboard design allows for easy trailering and beach launching. The Skimmer's capsize screening formula of 2.69 indicates reasonable stability for a small dinghy, though like all boats of this size, it requires attentive seamanship. This design suits recreational sailors seeking an affordable, manageable boat for day sailing adventures in sheltered waters.

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