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Drake 17
Osbert’s new ‘Selkie’ (the old ‘Selkie’ was a Selway-Fisher Waterman 16 which is currently being accquired by Barnacle Bill Magazine- Ed.) is a Drake 17 designed by
Clint Chase. If you are looking for a row-boat with auxiliary sail power, you need to
consider the Drake. Clint tells us why.
LOA 17’5”
Beam (max) 50”
Waterline length 15’ 2”
Waterline beam 34”
Capacity (DWL) 350 lbs
Draft 6” max
Depth amidships 12 1/2”
Drake is stable and fast
Drake is a faering-type, double ended rowboat designed and built for rowing safely in open water or for
exploring protected waters solo with camping gear. I used my hull #1 for exercise, exploration, and racing.
It did not take long to realize that I had a fast boat that was also stable. New rowers were not put off by the
sometimes tender nature of a fast rowboat. Experienced oarsman are impressed with how easy-pulling she
is and the way the hull slices through the water with no slamming no matter how choppy the water.
Drake is safe and seaworthy
One of the most important attributes I
was looking for is a boat that was safe
and seaworthy enough that I could do
some real ocean rowing. I wanted out of
sheltered waters and into the swell and
waves. Below is a map of some of the
rows I have done in Drake. The courses
outside the innermost islands can present some rather interesting conditions
and Drake has been the boat up to the
challenge. However, it is important to
note that I took a great deal of preparation and care in planning these rows, always had a float plan, and back up plans
should the weather turn foul.
Drake can sail!
It’s hard to imagine a more versatile boat and one that
will bring hours of endless joy in rowing. Add to the fun
a downwind sail rig: a gorgeous 60 square foot lugsail
(built by our favorite sailmaker Todd Bradshaw) for sailing home on a fair breeze. Drake will actually sail well
on a beam reach with no daggerboard trunk to weigh
her down. You can have a superior row boat that sails
great as long as you row upwind and sail downwind.