I read with interest Peter Bick’s piece in the summer Bulletin concerning the idea of a DCA single-hander.

I had, ever since the idea was ‘floated’ meant to ‘put my oar in’ on the issue (sorry!) as I had been mulling over the idea of building a replacement for my WW Potter which would allow me to incorporate some ideas which I had about what a boat needed for cruising, without taking a saw to the aforementioned Potter. I have to say that although the Stornaway suggested seemed a very good boat, I believe that something a bit larger, about 14 feet, and more cruising-oriented is called for. Something which draws on what we have in the way of modern materials, but which retains some of the simplicity and aesthetics of traditional craft.

Firstly, I personally have this dislike about getting wet unless I choose to, which means that I prefer something fairly stable, self-righting if possible, which I can move around in while I am sailing, and which has a fixed cuddy for gear and bunk. A cuddy of sorts also means you have something to shelter behind, and children can shelter inside if needed, especially when beating. The Potter has this, but the centreplate case gets in the way a great deal, and reduces access. So let’s not have one centreplate, but two under the bunks, leaving the access clear.

I like gunter rig, it has many advantages, is fairly efficient to windward, and with the addition of a self-tacking foresail would continue to be my choice for a single-hander.

Ply-epoxy clinker or strip planking would make for nice shapes and strength with minimum weight. We could perhaps as an alternative find someone who would supply a suitable GRP hull which could be finished in wood for people who would prefer to work that way.

There should be easy access to lockers from the (self-draining?) cockpit, which should be comfortable. Small boats take a long time to get places and if the wind is not too strong I like to put my feet up and relax. After all, I sail to enjoy myself, not to suffer.

I remember reading somewhere that, ‘the place for the galley in a small boat is in the cockpit’. This I agree with, but why not make life easier by building the side benches/lockers with this in mind so that it is possible to put the kettle on by just lifting a cover, rather than engaging in Boy Scout manoeuvres on a moving floor?

Finally, as I use an outboard, I would prefer it to be sited in a well where I can get at it. Fiddling with an outboard over the pitching stern of a small boat is not easy, also it would help reduce the incessant cavitation which occurs in rough water.

One option might be the hull shape of the Roamer, but modify the sheerline, rig and internals to give a lighter boat with pleasanter profile. I’m still thinking, but if anyone knows of plans for a boat similar to my sketch, please let me know.