the perfect 20'' cruising boat?

[JeffC_]

James, was your question theoretical, or are you thinking of ways to maximize <em>Josie</em>? If so, this thread could provide more practical suggestions, since its design and capabilities are already givens.

[msl]

James, there may be several answers to your design question. One might be the Sharpie.
There is a truly wonderful book, "The Commodore''s Story" by Ralph Munroe, of Key Biscayne, Florida.
There are accounts of some amazing voyages up and down the Atlantic coast as well as gunkholing adventures in that particular hull form.
If you happen to visit Miami, Florida, his home and workshop are maintained as a state historic site (known as "The Barnacle").
One of his innovations was a round bilged version of a New Haven Sharpie design - known as the "Presto". It is reputed to be very capable for shoal draft cruising, yet very seaworthy in open water.
Any way, James, find the book at a library. The text and pictures are very rewarding to read. I think the Sharpie designs are but one of many possible answers to the question.

I once rented a dhow (and skipper) on a very breezy day on the Nile river... steel hull, hand sewn cotton sails, a "wild" gaff design if ever there was one. It was very efficient maneuvering around obstacles (other craft, shoreline and docking. This dhow had no engine, either. There are stories of the "ancients" sailing dhows across oceans.

There are, I think, many designs which answer your question. New discoveries are always rewarding.
Regards,
Mark L.

[jbarros]

I appologize for my ignorance, but I thought that one of the defining factors of a sharpie was the flat bottom. What exactly is a round bilge sharpie?

On a side note, this was in part to get ideas for josie, but also to come up with more food for thought as I continue to talk myself into building the perfect boat (for me) at some point in the future.

Thanks agian everyone.

-- James

[msl]

James, Munroe designed and built many boats. The "Presto" was just a variation of the basic sharpie design. Rounded bilges, yet still shoal draft.
"Google" Ralph M. Munroe, or Presto or Egret and you''ll see.

[msl]

James... where we live and sail there are long Winters to endure. Reading keeps us focused, informed and entertained.
Another interesting story about an offshore adventure in an 18 foot DRASCOMBE LUGGER is the book, "A Single Wave" by Webb Chiles.
It just amazed me what this sailor put(s) himself through...and what the Drascombe Lugger could (and later, couldn''t)handle.
Check it out.
Mark L.