SCAMP envy/lust

[James McMullen]

For remarkably effortless and docile heaving-to in an instant there is a proven solution. One word, two syllables: "mizzen".

Have you considered the yawl option, Mr. Welsford? In my own experience, two sticks is way more than twice as useful as one in little open boats. Also for bigger boats, come to think of it. At least in my own preference.

[kenjamin]

SCAMP's wide stern and offset centerboard almost invites an offset rudder with an offset mizzen mast. Then of course you are adding three additional sticks to a simple handy rig – a boomkin, a another boom, and a mizzen mast. It all depends on how the boat will be used, right?. For solo adventure voyages such as Howard is pursuing, a yawl rig seems to make a lot of sense. On the other hand, the average day sailing SCAMP owner probably doesn't need or want the complications. The yawl rig can be a bit intimidating at first but then as you get used to it and see what it can do for you then it becomes more appealing. At least that's how it was for me.

[Howard Rice]

SCAMP's wide stern and offset centerboard almost invites an offset rudder with an offset mizzen mast. Then of course you are adding three additional sticks to a simple handy rig – a boomkin, a another boom, and a mizzen mast. It all depends on how the boat will be used, right?. For solo adventure voyages such as Howard is pursuing, a yawl rig seems to make a lot of sense. On the other hand, the average day sailing SCAMP owner probably doesn't need or want the complications. The yawl rig can be a bit intimidating at first but then as you get used to it and see what it can do for you then it becomes more appealing. At least that's how it was for me.

I am building two Scamps. #3 will be quite close to the stock design including the rig. #2 will be a different boat in a number of ways one of which is the rig. I am weighing all options including yawl.

[skaraborgcraft]

Schooner Scamp has a certain ring to it......

[kenjamin]

Hey Howard,

Just for fun, I thought I'd show you how the birdwing rig looks when it's reefed. The sail rotates downward along the curved luff and ends up looking almost like a crab claw. The sail area becomes not much bigger than a handkerchief but doesn't the balance look pretty good?



The mast can rotate 360° and the rig could be depowered at anytime so I suppose it could also look like this if you were hove to and the sea anchor were deployed from the stern. I've got no idea how well it will all work in actual practice but I'm curious to find out.



A possible plus about the birdwing is that the mast wants to get stepped so far aft of the lug rig that it opens up the cabin space where the as-drawn lug mast and lockers were drawn. In order to utilize that space and increase the sail area for light conditions I've been entertaining the use of a removable bow sprit. In playing with it in Adobe Illustrator this morning I realized that the end of the curved bowsprit I would like to use would intrude into the free bonus space that the new mast step had just freed up. After reading about James McMullen's gimbaled stove on another thread, it occurred to me that maybe the end of the bowsprit might be the ideal place to hang that stove. The stove could swing all kinds of ways and never hit anything.

[john welsford]

For remarkably effortless and docile heaving-to in an instant there is a proven solution. One word, two syllables: "mizzen".

Have you considered the yawl option, Mr. Welsford? In my own experience, two sticks is way more than twice as useful as one in little open boats. Also for bigger boats, come to think of it. At least in my own preference.

I had, and if you are familiar with my small open cruisers you'll know that I use variations on the yawl rig on quite a few of my designs. But in this case the brief was for the simplest possible solution consistent with the boats expected use. That expected use did not include blue water voyages.
As a daysailer rigging time is important, adding a mizzen doubles the rigging time, the number of spars, sails, pulleys and lines and adds considerably to windage and weight thus degrading performance.
The only advantage is the ability to heave to for long periods which is really only of real importance to someone sailing outside the normal range of a small boat. SCAMP is after all only 12 ft long, and very few people are going to use her in an open ocean situation and those people are generally smart enough to work out alternative methods of sitting stable and quiet when it blows up.

But yes, a mizzen would do just as you say.

John Welsford

[skaraborgcraft]

Kenjamin, interesting views for the birdwing mast set up. I really think you need a lid on that saucepan though to avoid any spillages.

As the mast is able to rotate thru-360, does the foot and collar at cabin support have to have any paticular "bearings" to function? My sprit rig pole mast,spins on a washer on the base and is free to rotate in a loose hole in the thwart, same kind of thing or more sophisticated? Cheers

[keyhavenpotterer]

Ken, rather than fore and aft, if you were to choose to build a lug rigged Scamp, but position your bird wing mast to arc transversely accross the boat instead, it will give you, uniquely, clean, non turbulent airflow over the front of your lug rig sail, to your advantage upwind and on a reach, if all else was equal (mast would have to be built very stiff to allow a good downhaul tension without bending, without being heavier than standard, or be able to go adaquately stiff when tensioned like a bow).

Ed

[Howard Rice]

A note: I apologize for this long winded post but think it important.

My nephew is preparing for his honeymoon. He and his wife to be are headed into the mountains with backpacks. Nice. They are a great young couple, smart and healthy but lacking in travel experience, specifically backpacking. Since I am stateside he asks me many questions about gear after getting an ear full from big box and specialty shop outdoor gear salesmen. I think I may be a bit of a let down for him as he queries me on the finest most complex extra gear one can imagine, "can't go without stuff" in salesman jargon. I counsel my nephew to select the absolute simplest, high quality, field proven gear possible and less of it at that, gear that is "suitable for the task at hand."

Lesson for Steve, don't get complex, keep it simple, go with minimal items of the highest quality. Make sure the gear you select is suitable for the purpose at hand, no need to achieve overkill, "You are not climbing in the Himalayas", I tell him. The outdoor industry is all about this sort of dream marketing of gear that is not suitable (overkill) for most purposes. This deluge of marketing and sales pitch makes my nephew believe he "needs" all the stuff he told me about.

With configuring a Scamp it can be much the same as over doing it on gear. I am building two Scamps. #3 will be a Scamp as designed with a few minor personalization changes. The boat is excellent the way she is designed, "suitable for purpose" (I think this is how John Welsford puts it), excellent for daysailing, near shore creek crawling and beach cruising. I have truly enjoyed sailing Scamp #1, the standard Scamp. Small modifications from standard to suit each owner are part of the fun of creating ones own boat.

On the other hand Scamp #2 will be modified to be made suitable for a wholly different intended purpose. This modified Scamp will be far more complex than Scamp should be but I knowingly incorporate these complexities to achieve a different suitability of purpose. Nuff said on #2.

I believe it prudent for me to stop the conversation regarding the numerous modifications I am considering building into #2 as I do not want to be the person who is seen advocating using any boat beyond its design brief even if the boat is capable (only in my opinion) of going beyond it's brief. I would hate to see anyone else adopt even one of my modifications in their Scamp, which would make for extra work, more complexity and perhaps capabilities never needed or used.

So the changes I will make are not needed for Scamp as she is designed. Scamp is the essence of simplicity. If thoughtfully constructed to the plan set then she should be of the highest quality, suitable for purpose and if you should fall on hard chance during a weekend mini cruise she will get you home just fine by reefing, luffing and sailing smart.

In closing, I sail small wooden boats in places where the suitability question often comes up from others as in, "your not going out there in that are you?" I listen and smile honoring their concern. I do choose boats carefully, set them up properly and sea trial them until I am satisfied. If they don't pass as seaworthy I don't go. It is only when I know a boat inside and out that I set out and use it beyond it's design brief.

If you, like me are building Scamp then have fun, Scamp is right just as she is.


Respectfully,
howard

I had, and if you are familiar with my small open cruisers you'll know that I use variations on the yawl rig on quite a few of my designs. But in this case the brief was for the simplest possible solution consistent with the boats expected use. That expected use did not include blue water voyages.
As a daysailer rigging time is important, adding a mizzen doubles the rigging time, the number of spars, sails, pulleys and lines and adds considerably to windage and weight thus degrading performance.
The only advantage is the ability to heave to for long periods which is really only of real importance to someone sailing outside the normal range of a small boat. SCAMP is after all only 12 ft long, and very few people are going to use her in an open ocean situation and those people are generally smart enough to work out alternative methods of sitting stable and quiet when it blows up.

But yes, a mizzen would do just as you say.

John Welsford

[kenjamin]

Kenjamin, interesting views for the birdwing mast set up. I really think you need a lid on that saucepan though to avoid any spillages.

As the mast is able to rotate thru-360, does the foot and collar at cabin support have to have any paticular "bearings" to function? My sprit rig pole mast,spins on a washer on the base and is free to rotate in a loose hole in the thwart, same kind of thing or more sophisticated? Cheers

I've found that leather is all that is needed at the mast step for free enough rotation but I may also use a small patch of Delrin for the bottom end of the mast so it's weight can rotate on that. From my experience with Xena's rig I've found that a long rectangular box is all that is needed to contain the foot of the mast for swinging it up to vertical. With Xena, after swinging the mast to vertical, I have to then hop the 42 lb. mast (it's a brute) up out of the box, onto the mast step, and then another hop into the hole of the mast step. It was challenging the first ten times or so I did it but now it's fairly easy as long as I chase away curious onlookers so I don't have to worry about dropping the mast on them. It is also much easier to do it by myself than to have to counter input from a helper. With my SCAMP the box will be the bottom portion of the mast step and the mast will swing up into position at the aft edge of the cabin roof. Then, hopefully, I'll be able to drop in a chock (at the aft edge of the cabin roof) that will secure the mast and also complete the other half of the bearing surface needed for the mast to rotate smoothly. The box at the foot can have interchangeable soles so that I can adjust the rake of the mast by using different soles. The different soles can have different locations for the final hole that the mast drops into to give me that adjustability for the final chosen mast rake.

I'd also like to add that I agree with Howard in saying that SCAMP is already an excellent design for its intended purpose and doesn't need any further tweaking by people with experimental rigs or by people intending to use the boat for purposes other than what was intended. For me the use of my birdwing mast dictated that I had to change the mast step location. This in turn meant that there was no longer a mast blocking the forward part of the cabin space so I decided to move the lockers somewhere else and open up the cabin space a little more. One thing leads to another. Also the birdwing mast that I'm using on SCAMP is already in existence and is undersized compared to the big as-drawn lug so the bowsprit and a headsail became a necessity so that I could keep up with the rest of the SCAMP fleet. Of course the temptation is to make my SCAMP the fastest in the fleet which makes me wonder what a full race SCAMP would look like.

The other change for my SCAMP was that out of necessity I would be using the motor more for my usage and that I already owned a 4 HP Yamaha that originally was intended for use with my Caledonia Yawl. Using the oversized motor dictated a somewhat beefy oversized motorwell. I did not use the typical transom bracket because I plan on using my SCAMP well into my seventies and did not want to have to hang over a transom in my old age in order to mess with an outboard motor. I also don't like the way outboards look hanging on a bracket off the transom. So the big motor had to be inside the cockpit centrally located for maximum efficiency and usability and that dictated "other" arrangements for the rudder. Twin rudders seemed to be the obvious solution. The problem I'm having now is that with the motor "up" in sailing mode that leaves very little space for tillers. The tillers could be shaped to have enough curvature to come over the top of the motor but I don't think I would like the way that looks. The other option is to use forward facing short tillers that can swing through their arcs behind the motor (they could be 16" long there) but they may then need some sort of mechanical advantage to operate comfortably for the helmsman. Hopefully I'll get some help with the design of the tillers but for now I'm leaning towards short forward facing tillers. Of course for racing, the motor will not be on board and I could easily use longer tillers.

One thing for sure, this SCAMP is an awesome boat. The bulkheads are works of art that create a tight, strong, self-bailing monocoque structure. And the scale of the boat is such that one person can right the boat if need be, or drag it up a beach, or adjust the it on a trailer, or pole it in 6 inches of water, or ...

[skaraborgcraft]

Ken, is that 42lb a bare mast or with the sail on? delrin duly noted.

Howard, I dont think you are encouraging anyone to mess with the original Scamp set up. Kenjamin has his own reasons to change things to suit his own purpose,and i think we all take responsibilty for changing things that are not in the plans.I understand JW has assisted Ken with details of the outboard well. I think most people would be interested in hearing of your modifications just out of interest,because for 99% of people,Scamp is already a perfect wee boat, and maybe only 1% of those Scamp builders would even think about taking a 12ft boat offshore,however it was modified (that will be you Howard). So, Howard, you have already clearly stated that Scamp is a great boat, i personally do not see you doing Scamp any injustice by modifying ONE of your builds to suit your own purpose. Unless you are getting private mails asking for details of how to build a blue water Scamp, i dont see any issues. However, i respectfully appriciate what you have said,and of course you are free to discuss or not as you see fit. Personally out of interest,i would like to see and hear about your No2 build should you wish to share that data at some point,either on the forum,PM,or not at all,as you see fit. For me,sailing the length of a 100km lake in a Scamp will be as close to going "blue" as i should wish to do so.

On the hiking gear, have to agree,minimum amount of top quality gear.

[sailoar]

And in certain places, it doesn't take blue water to produce blue-water conditions - like central San Francisco Bay on a summer afternoon. One circumnavigator said that the Bay was the nastiest part of the whole trip.

[James McMullen]

I happen to think that everything K. Is doing to his Scamp is a horrible mistake and a bad idea and I would do anything and everything completely different myself. . . but I also think its absolutely wonderful that he's enjoying the process of doing things his own way. That's why you build your own boats--so you can have it the way you want it. To each cat his own rat, right? And this is the right scale of boat to test out those crazy wild-ass ideas so it doesn't end up costing you a fortune or risking other people's lives. And even though everyone except Kenjamin would be happier and better off with a Scamp as drawn, that's not his target demographic.

Go, Comrade, go! Build that crazy thang! Take lotsa pictures.

[Howard Rice]

You have SF Bay right. I have been blown wide and wild sailing on the Bay. Years ago I also officiated several big regattas there including one world championship and we did a whole bunch of picking up dog wet sailors out of very cold Bay waters, waters that can kill you very fast. I figure Scamp if soundly built and with out much in the way of modifications can handle the Bay and places like the Bay without a problem.

Blue water conditions in my book have as much to do with time passing as the occasional (meaning fairly rare) high wind/big wave combo due to storms or squalls. Being able to reef and rest or park and sleep, eat or get dry supports sound seamanship. Sound seamanship is based on good decision making. Good decision making is based on clear thinking rested sailors. Tired sailors just like everyone else can end up making bad decisions. When I have been tired at sea everything seems more dire. The boat that is set up for offshore blue water requires a bit more depth of modification than a potential rough water day sailor but I definitely get your point and agree.

I say go to Kenjamin too. If we don't push perceived limits nothing changes for the better.

I always have this as my base line for small boat adventures "I am on my own", always. I expect no assistance as I know I do not have to be out at sea in a small boat instead I choose to be. So if I don't have to be out there then why put someone else in danger who has to go out to come to my aid because his or her professional calling requires it.

In actuality I often sail where there is absolutely no chance of rescue any way. In Pohnpei Micronesia as one example I am 100% on my own, no navy, no coast guard, no marine police, a very few local work boats and the very rarest of yachts come calling due to our remote location. If I am ill prepared and leave the lagoon its all on me and so I have adapted and refined everything to make sure it is all on me and every contingency is covered. I like it this way.

And in certain places, it doesn't take blue water to produce blue-water conditions - like central San Francisco Bay on a summer afternoon. One circumnavigator said that the Bay was the nastiest part of the whole trip.

[kenjamin]

Just for the record, I was going to get help from Mr. Welsford with the motor well but since I'm trying to get my SCAMP built in time for the June 29th Mystic WoodenBoat Show, I went ahead and designed it myself as it seemed that Mr. Welsford plate was already full. He did say he was going to help me with the twin rudders but I haven't heard from him lately.

Thought you guys might enjoy seeing these San Francisco Bay Pelicans racing on the bay in rough conditions. Maybe these will be SCAMPs someday.

The photo is from the book "How to Beat the High Cost of Sailing" by Richard Lyttle.

[kenjamin]

Ken, is that 42lb a bare mast or with the sail on? delrin duly noted.

Yes that's just the mast. I had to overbuild it because I couldn't afford for it to fail. FSU and I are still trying to get a patent on the design and if we ever do get a patent, it's kind of hard to sell licensing rights when the prototype fails.

My SCAMP mast is smaller, much lighter and I used more refined machining techniques to give it a more uniform taper. Also the sail for it was cut fuller, has only partial battens and should do better in light air.

[kenjamin]

I happen to think that everything K. Is doing to his Scamp is a horrible mistake and a bad idea and I would do anything and everything completely different myself. . . but I also think its absolutely wonderful that he's enjoying the process of doing things his own way. That's why you build your own boats--so you can have it the way you want it. To each cat his own rat, right? And this is the right scale of boat to test out those crazy wild-ass ideas so it doesn't end up costing you a fortune or risking other people's lives. And even though everyone except Kenjamin would be happier and better off with a Scamp as drawn, that's not his target demographic.

Go, Comrade, go! Build that crazy thang! Take lotsa pictures.

Yo Comrade, I'll never understand why you are always so dead set against my experimentation with sailboat masts. What are you so afraid of? Like boats, all masts are compromises and I doubt that my birdwing masts will ever replace your beloved lug rig. My new SCAMP mast addresses many of your complaints about Xena's mast. The new mast is much lighter and the sail is cut fuller than Xena's rig. It definitely will store much better than any straight sticks anyone will put on a SCAMP but beyond that it may perform well too. What's so wrong with finding out? Aren't you just a little tiny bit curious to see if it can someday become a viable alternative to conventional rigs? Yes there have been problems with the cut of the sails for my funky masts but it's not necessarily a problem that can't be overcome. And how the heck can you ever find out if a good alternative rig is out there unless one tries to find one? Your negativity is unreasonable but like I've said before, it's always gets me going and helps to keep me driving onward to go where no crazy person has boldly gone before. Just don't forget I'm the one with the art degree so I get to say whether it looks good or not no matter how crappy it works!

[kenjamin]

Ken, rather than fore and aft, if you were to choose to build a lug rigged Scamp, but position your bird wing mast to arc transversely accross the boat instead, it will give you, uniquely, clean, non turbulent airflow over the front of your lug rig sail, to your advantage upwind and on a reach, if all else was equal (mast would have to be built very stiff to allow a good downhaul tension without bending, without being heavier than standard, or be able to go adaquately stiff when tensioned like a bow).

Ed

What I don't like about the lug rig is when that yard falls on your head. That's a lot of lumber to be swinging around up there. The tiny composite bamboo spar I use at the head of my birdwing rig weighs two pounds and it is always contained by the luff groove. Even though it's small it does provide a strong piece at the head of the sail that can be very quickly yanked down with a downhaul when need be.

[Dan St Gean]

One rig I'm fond of is the squaretop main. Good gust response, lots of low area...but could be very high aspect like an A cat or unstayed like an Hobie AI. Gary Dierking's cut down beachcat main with a unique sheeting system is a nice example of this.



Dan

[skaraborgcraft]

What is it with videos and bloody awfull sound tracks? Come back Dylan Winter, at least the music was spot on. Cheers

[sailoar]

Wait, you mean when you're sailing in a beautiful cove you don't wish you were in an 80's disco snorting coke? I sure do.

[skaraborgcraft]

Wait, you mean when you're sailing in a beautiful cove you don't wish you were in an 80's disco snorting coke? I sure do.

I was on a "trip" somewhere else around that decade.......i vaguely recall something about discos, lots of flashing lights and crap music...... or was that a fairground??? My flashbacks are not as clear as they used to be. Cheers

[keyhavenpotterer]

What I don't like about the lug rig is when that yard falls on your head. That's a lot of lumber to be swinging around up there.

Use a carbon yard. A windsurf mast makes a great lug rig yard. No weight at all. In fact the simplicity of the lug spars makes using straight tubes much easier to source. My Scow had 50mm mast and boom and a 40mm to 20mm tapered yard. Whole rig fell on my head when the 3mm dyneema shroud parted after 3 hard seasons racing. No pain at all. I had always worried what would happen if the super thin shrouds broke and in the event it was no problem except I was leading the final race of the season and had to retire.

And yes, you can use shrouds. Means you can use much lighter spars, go better upwind, use full sail in much stronger winds and rigging is still quick. Both shrouds stay tied on and forestay just clips on and tensions the rig.

Brian

[kenjamin]

During the 2007 WoodenBoat Show at Mystic, Ed, the owner of this gorgeous Caledonia Yawl, took my friend and I on a cruise around the estuary. My friend had lost a couple of fingers in a table saw accident and when he was lowering the yard for Ed the halyard slipped through his remaining fingers and the yard came crashing down all at once with a loud bang into the bottom of the boat. When Ed, who of course was quite upset, asked my friend how he could let the line slip, he held up his two and a half fingers at which time Ed started laughing. I was confused about what was so funny about that and why Ed was suddenly in such a good mood about his Patina, the immaculate conception, being scratched up by a stranger. It was then that I realized Ed was holding up his hand with its missing fingers and saying something about Viet Nam. Ed, if you're out there, I hope to see you at this year's show.

[wtarzia]

For remarkably effortless and docile heaving-to in an instant there is a proven solution. One word, two syllables: "mizzen". ....

--- Absolutely. I sometimes use a balanced lug similar in size to Scamp's on my 16 foot outrigger canoe. The very long boom interfered with my mizzen, so I left that home. After sailing in 20 knot winds a while I found I had to heave-to to rest my sheet-hand and later to fix something. I found I couldn't heave-to at all. I could slow the boat for a minute, but otherwise it would take off again (this despite light weatherhelm -- so thanks John Welsford for making this observation which clarifies things for me). I sure was wishing for my little mizzen, and I will be installing a further-aft step for it because that balanced lug is a great light-air sail, but I will no longer risk the air getting heavier and being out of control like that again. -- Wade

[kenjamin]

Can anyone send me the foil cross section shape to use for machining the designated NACA foil shape into my "made from scratch" offset centerboard? I don't have internet access at home so I'm at a cafe and don't have my plans in front of me so don't know the proper number for the NACA foil section with me. I'll be machining the board one half at a time using 18 mm ply. I was able to saw slices of lead off a brick of lead I have so I'll be able to machine pockets into the flat side of the halves in which to place the lead. I think I have everything I need to do the job except the actual shape. And yes I can print the shape full size if I just had the file.

Here's a link to the method of using a router to get the proper shape:

http://www.duckworksmagazine.com/09/...oils/index.htm

Does anyone know why the rudder cross section shape was provided in the plans but not the centerboard? And am I the only one building from plans only and having these problems? Thanks in advance, kenjamin

[Pete E]

Ben I have shaped the rudder but not the center board. I have gotten the outside shape on ply pattern. I went through some of the ducks works articles picked up this little gem. The foil should be like a trout. Rounded nose, widest part 1/3 down the body and then tapered to the tail. I haven't made a center board yet but I did make a airplane wing. I can't remember the number but that doesn't matter.

One of the Duck Works Article give a foil you could copy that to your computer or just sketch one out. Then make jigs from that. Look at sheet one of the prints the board in the down position is at a kitty wampus position so I think the proper profile should be also when you make a jig.

I am just going to do most of it with a electric planer and eyeball it. You know if it looks good it's good. ( : )

[gilberj]

I am mostly submitting here so this thread comes into my subscribed list..... I think Scamp is a worthy successor to the SF Pelican. A little better looking (Pelican are really cute boats despite the slightly crude shape) Scamp is also much better developed with water ballast and off-centre boards. I think it is fine for someone to experiment with different rigs. I may or may not like or agree with what they are doing. I'd probably use a slightly more simple boat for experiments, maybe like the Pelican.

[keyhavenpotterer]

Came across this article about SCAMP on the SCA blog.

http://threesheetsnw.com/blog/2011/1...-tiny-package/

Two nice pictures giving scale to the cockpit and cuddy

[LapenkoAl]

Yes, that saucy little number. I was totally gone when I watched the Howard Rice capsize test:




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=du9lv...eature=related

it's great.
I watched this video three times running.
Thank you.

[Howard Rice]

Kenjamin.

Hoping your creative juices are flowing as strong as ever. Keep at it.

A few observations on the space you have created by leaving out a bulkhead. These observations are based on a live aboard experience I had on Scamp #1 during a windy winter overnight sea trial. I slept aboard and had a first hand chance to see how she reacted to light loading, my movements and attitude at anchor.

If you intend to go forward into the cuddy (and you might not be contemplating doing so) or partially in then squeezing around the mast stepped where you have it could prove to be a challenge perhaps even annoyance, however small. I find the small inconveniences aboard cramped (small) boats tend to annoy after awhile. Once annoyed time and again I either alter the boat, sail it less frequently or move on to a better design.

Scamp is rather fine forward (she narrows dramatically from her wide beam flat bottom) in spite of being pram bowed. This narrowing happens rather dramatically in the Scamp design. She is after all 11'11" loa.

Her narrowed beam and resultant shape forward offers sailing ability to weather and general sea keeping qualities. Where the narrow beam forward becomes an issue is when the sailor moves his/her body weight forward in the boat. My experience of being both fully and partially in the cuddy while at anchor in a relatively unloaded boat felt a little bow down uncomfortable. I was geared up and out for a two day live aboard winter cruise and was not loaded as in heavy.

When I put my weight forward Scamp would go slightly bow down. Her stern would rise up and she would move around on her anchor because she was out of fore and aft trim. It was a little windy when I tried this. In order to utilize the deeper cuddy you have created you will likely need to load Scamp aft to offset your body weight, cooking gear and other items that you use forward. I can imagine you have thought through this.

Very small boats like to be lightly loaded and Scamp is no exception in spite of her ample size/volume. I know you are planning to add weight aft in the form of a motor well, engine, fuel, etc.

I stay away from physically getting in tiny cabins on very small boats unless conditions are quite ideal. In my experience tiny cabins are hard to keep organized, are tough to actually sleep in and can be dangerous to extract oneself from in a pinch. This is why I like the Scamp cuddy as is. I also realize you may be thinking to strike the rig and stow the mast each time you sleep aboard or you may not be contemplating sleeping aboard at all.

*Having the bulkheads in place as designed is in my mind a critical safety factor. Scamp as designed gives sailors the ability to quickly right, re-enter and sail away without bailing. This is one of her greatest assets. Like all boats Scamp is a blend of compromises and for my intended uses her blend is a good one.

*Sailing a Scamp means capsize will be less likely but if a sailor does go over off a dangerous lee shore or in oncoming ship traffic then it is easy to see that speed from capsized to up and making way is important. Opening her up forward very likely negates the no bail/quick to sail away capability. Perhaps you have already thought this through.

Can Scamp sail safely without the bulkhead? Yes but she will not be as safe as she could be and should be handled as such. I selected the Scamp design so I can more easily take responsibility for my own safety. Since I know I can self rescue Scamp I know can sail farther allowing for more experiences and adventures. Looking forward to launching #3.

Best,
howard



A possible plus about the birdwing is that the mast wants to get stepped so far aft of the lug rig that it opens up the cabin space where the as-drawn lug mast and lockers were drawn. In order to utilize that space and increase the sail area for light conditions I've been entertaining the use of a removable bow sprit. In playing with it in Adobe Illustrator this morning I realized that the end of the curved bowsprit I would like to use would intrude into the free bonus space that the new mast step had just freed up. After reading about James McMullen's gimbaled stove on another thread, it occurred to me that maybe the end of the bowsprit might be the ideal place to hang that stove. The stove could swing all kinds of ways and never hit anything.

[/QUOTE]

[kenjamin]

Thanks very much for the input, Howard. I respect your experience with adventure sailing and I agree it would be foolish to bundle up in the cuddy cabin at sea if it were difficult to escape from it. The extended cabin space in the birdwing SCAMP will mostly be used to store the big cooler (for fishing) in the shade and out of the way. I may also do some camping in it as well but the mast will be stored along the gunnel and the boat will be in a quiet protected cove somewhere, not in the open ocean. The compartment between the bow transom and bulkhead two will be sealed except for the bowsprit hole. The hole for the bow sprit tapers down as it goes towards the bow so a towel shoved in there should get tighter and tighter as it is inserted. I could also fit an inspection port over the hole if I get into more adventuresome sailing later in life. From watching your capsize tests, it doesn't seem like the bow sprit hole will ever take on water in a capsize especially if the mast doesn't break. My laminated birdwing masts tend to be on the heavy side but they are very strong. Also their shape will help preserve them if they ever hit the water at speed in a true capsize. With my SCAMP fully loaded for fishing there will be plenty of heavy stuff (big cooler, heavy tackle boxes, fuel tank, outboard, etc.) to shove towards the stern if two of us want to seek shelter from a passing thunderstorm and hopefully the mast will be down and secured before it hits. Howard, from my experience as a surfer, I truly know the power of a wave and have a deep respect for what it can do including cracked ribs and a bloodied face. If anyone deserves the title "chicken of the sea," that would be me.

Oh, and I didn't remove the bulkhead at 3, it is still very much there.

[Howard Rice]

Kenjamin

*Regarding my wording about bulkhead #3. I know you didn't leave it out but I thought it had been cut down to a very minimal dimension to make smooth sitting space for you inside the cuddy. In my minds eye I thought you had opened it up more than your photo shows. Thanks for posting it. I think of #3 as a true watertight bulkhead because it can (with hatches closed) be sealed off as a dry space/buoyant compartment.
Scamp is a safer boat with a watertight #3.

*In skilled hands your boat should be good fun. I prefer small sail boats that can be quickly sailed out of a capsize. I like cruising in dinghies that allow me to do a "high side" self rescue/righting in case of capsize. If successful the sailor doesn't get wet.

*There are two Scamp capsize videos on uTube posted by SCA magazine. One shows dockside static testing, one of the tests is a partial "high side" getting up to the high side on Scamp is tricky but can be done). Both videos show skills and techniques sailors may want to consider learning. "SCAMPCapsizeTest"

*Sounds like you will have your boat just the way you want it, suitable for your purposes. Up a quiet creek she will be a marvelous floating micro cabin. Scamp is a stable platform that I imagine will work perfectly for fishing.

*How much do you think your wing mast will weigh? How much will the mast partners weigh or better yet how do you plan to strengthen the aft end of the cuddy to accommodate the mast?

*I think you are right below about the bowsprit likely not taking on water or too much water. The exception being a turtle capsize situation. If turtled her bow is under water. If Scamp capsizes on her side or turtles she will take on a serious gulp of water without the hatches in bulkhead #3. It will be interesting to read what you have learned if you capsize test her someday.
howard


[QUOTE=kenjamin;3363147]Thanks very much for the input, Howard. I respect your experience with adventure sailing and I agree it would be foolish to bundle up in the cuddy cabin at sea if it were difficult to escape from it. The extended cabin space in the birdwing SCAMP will mostly be used to store the big cooler (for fishing) in the shade and out of the way. I may also do some camping in it as well but the mast will be stored along the gunnel and the boat will be in a quiet protected cove somewhere, not in the open ocean. The compartment between the bow transom and bulkhead two will be sealed except for the bowsprit hole. The hole for the bow sprit tapers down as it goes towards the bow so a towel shoved in there should get tighter and tighter as it is inserted. I could also fit an inspection port over the hole if I get into more adventuresome sailing later in life. From watching your capsize tests, it doesn't seem like the bow sprit hole will ever take on water in a capsize especially if the mast doesn't break.

My laminated birdwing masts tend to be on the heavy side but they are very strong. Also their shape will help preserve them if they ever hit the water at speed in a true capsize. With my SCAMP fully loaded for fishing there will be plenty of heavy stuff (big cooler, heavy tackle boxes, fuel tank, outboard, etc.) to shove towards the stern if two of us want to seek shelter from a passing thunderstorm and hopefully the mast will be down and secured before it hits. Howard, from my experience as a surfer, I truly know the power of a wave and have a deep respect for what it can do including cracked ribs and a bloodied face. If anyone deserves the title "chicken of the sea," that would be me.

Oh, and I didn't remove the bulkhead at 3, it is still very much there.

[kenjamin]

[QUOTE=Howard Rice;3363198]Kenjamin

*Regarding my wording about bulkhead #3. I know you didn't leave it out but I thought it had been cut down to a very minimal dimension to make smooth sitting space for you inside the cuddy. In my minds eye I thought you had opened it up more than your photo shows. Thanks for posting it. I think of #3 as a true watertight bulkhead because it can (with hatches closed) be sealed off as a dry space/buoyant compartment.
Scamp is a safer boat with a watertight #3.

*In skilled hands your boat should be good fun. I prefer small sail boats that can be quickly sailed out of a capsize. I like cruising in dinghies that allow me to do a "high side" self rescue/righting in case of capsize. If successful the sailor doesn't get wet.

*There are two Scamp capsize videos on uTube posted by SCA magazine. One shows dockside static testing, one of the tests is a partial "high side" getting up to the high side on Scamp is tricky but can be done). Both videos show skills and techniques sailors may want to consider learning. "SCAMPCapsizeTest"

*Sounds like you will have your boat just the way you want it, suitable for your purposes. Up a quiet creek she will be a marvelous floating micro cabin. Scamp is a stable platform that I imagine will work perfectly for fishing.

*How much do you think your wing mast will weigh? How much will the mast partners weigh or better yet how do you plan to strengthen the aft end of the cuddy to accommodate the mast?

*I think you are right below about the bowsprit likely not taking on water or too much water. The exception being a turtle capsize situation. If turtled her bow is under water. If Scamp capsizes on her side or turtles she will take on a serious gulp of water without the hatches in bulkhead #3. It will be interesting to read what you have learned if you capsize test her someday.
howard


Hello Howard,

I think you are right about SCAMP being more seaworthy with bulkhead 3 sealed but yes I did make sure to make bulkhead 3 extra beefy with a thick enough inner edge that someone could seal it up again if they were to feel the need someday. It could even be a removable panel with a waterproof gasket. For my purposes, most of my fishing will be in protected waters at least for a while until I get to know the boat better. I did make sure that under the cockpit sole will remain air cambers all the way to the bow. You've got me looking at ways to seal the bowsprit hole when the bow sprit is not in use. A rectangular inspection port would do the job nicely but I can't seem to find one in black – like all the other inspection ports on the boat.

The mast and sail I'll be using are already in existence and quite easy to handle although it is a bit undersized compared to the big lug rig. That's what has me messing with the bowsprit and setting a jib. I've weighed the mast but I've already forgotten what that figure is. I'll weigh it again and get back with you on that. I think it's about 25 lbs. but it will require a 40" extension piece (with 20" of bury) in order for it to work with the SCAMP. I can tell you the mast itself is easy to lift with a couple of fingers. The mast step will be a laminated spruce "X" box between bulkheads 3 & 4 and the mast will come to rest between two of the legs of the "X." Bulkhead 4 will have a decorative but functional enhancement of layers of laminated fir that beef up bulkhead 4 enough for it to be securely fastened to the mast step before bulkhead 4 is cut open to allow the mast to pass through it. The laminated fir bulkhead 4 will also allow me to mount some rock solid rod holders, drink racks, and also some pedestal mounts for my Mantis sunshade.

Here in St. Augustine there are plenty of places where I can test my birdwing SCAMP with a capsize test safely especially on an incoming tide so I won't have to worry about being swept out into the Atlantic. I agree that it would be wise on my part to find out how the boat responds to my righting input in controlled conditions before I find myself righting her in an emergency situation.

Thanks again for your input. I sincerely appreciate your help and I'll get back with you on the exact weight of the mast.

Edited to add: I weighed the mast again last night and it weighs 21 lbs. (9.5 kg).

[Howard Rice]

Hi.

Kenjamin I am sure you will sail safely aboard your Scamp as she is configured.

Capsize talk.
Rarely, if ever have I seen a new boat introduced/launched and tied so closely to the word "capsize"........most designers/manufacturers don't address the topic but they should. In Scamps case it seems a good thing as her design proves going out on the water in a small boat can be quite stress free. Good work John Welsford.

As to Scamp and Capsize.
The discussion linkage may seem odd. When I joined the group conducting the capsize testing I advocated for it being done quietly in an out of the way place without any audience and one standby boat (the water and air were really cold). If successful I thought her creators could simply list "self rescue capable" as one of the attributes that make Scamp such an innovative package. Testing would have been completed and the scary capsize topic dropped. I believe Scamps safety level is so high as to be her greatest asset, add sparkling small boat sailing performance and well there you have it.

Hopefully the utube capsize videos posted by Small Craft Advisor may prove useful to new small boat sailors. The video demonstrates one method for self rescuing a small boat. Perhaps the videos may help raise awareness of "what a good small boat should be able to do" in a tight spot. Scamp is one solution. I do like bulkhead #3 set up as watertight achieved through the use of access hatches.

I believe more small boats should be capsize tested in wind and waves with the results documented and published.

A note:
Since there is much capsize discussion. With greatest respect to any reader here new to sailing or contemplating taking the helm of a wood sailing boat for the first time. Don't be too concerned about sailing and capsizing. In fact many of the boats you might chose are likely not prone to capsizing, they may be keel boats, be wide and stable, have internal ballast, amas, etc. The terms "capsize" and "sailing" are not inexorably linked. In other words don't worry too much about it. If you decide to sail a centerboard, daggerboard, leeboard etc, type of boat then plan ahead. Set it up for self rescue, which is very simply to do in most cases. Wear a life jacket, pick your conditions, sail a buoyant boat, practice flipping over, getting her up, getting you back aboard and quickly sailing again.

In any case capsizing will likely never happen to you. However if you know you are capable of self rescue you will have more confidence to sail more places in varied conditions. The small boat world is opened up for you to explore if you are aboard a self rescue able boat.

howard

Hello Howard,

I think you are right about SCAMP being more seaworthy with bulkhead 3 sealed but yes I did make sure to make bulkhead 3 extra beefy with a thick enough inner edge that someone could seal it up again if they were to feel the need someday. It could even be a removable panel with a waterproof gasket. For my purposes, most of my fishing will be in protected waters at least for a while until I get to know the boat better. I did make sure that under the cockpit sole will remain air cambers all the way to the bow. You've got me looking at ways to seal the bowsprit hole when the bow sprit is not in use. A rectangular inspection port would do the job nicely but I can't seem to find one in black – like all the other inspection ports on the boat.

The mast and sail I'll be using are already in existence and quite easy to handle although it is a bit undersized compared to the big lug rig. That's what has me messing with the bowsprit and setting a jib. I've weighed the mast but I've already forgotten what that figure is. I'll weigh it again and get back with you on that. I think it's about 25 lbs. but it will require a 40" extension piece (with 20" of bury) in order for it to work with the SCAMP. I can tell you the mast itself is easy to lift with a couple of fingers. The mast step will be a laminated spruce "X" box between bulkheads 3 & 4 and the mast will come to rest between two of the legs of the "X." Bulkhead 4 will have a decorative but functional enhancement of layers of laminated fir that beef up bulkhead 4 enough for it to be securely fastened to the mast step before bulkhead 4 is cut open to allow the mast to pass through it. The laminated fir bulkhead 4 will also allow me to mount some rock solid rod holders, drink racks, and also some pedestal mounts for my Mantis sunshade.

Here in St. Augustine there are plenty of places where I can test my birdwing SCAMP with a capsize test safely especially on an incoming tide so I won't have to worry about being swept out into the Atlantic. I agree that it would be wise on my part to find out how the boat responds to my righting input in controlled conditions before I find myself righting her in an emergency situation.

Thanks again for your input. I sincerely appreciate your help and I'll get back with you on the exact weight of the mast.

Edited to add: I weighed the mast again last night and it weighs 21 lbs. (9.5 kg).

[peterAustralia]

Hi all

Some questions and comments for John Welsford

I have put down a deposit for a JW Tread Lightly, and am picking the boat up on Saturday. The boat is in excellent condition and as far as I can tell it was built around 2006 in Ararat in Western Victoria, Australia. It was then sold to the current owners who are selling it becasue of personal reasons. Price was $4,500 whihc seems reasonable, as I would think that it would cost more than $10.000 to build new, not including labour.

The tread lightly is a scaled up version of scamp, or Scamp is a scaled down version of Tread Lightly

My ideal boat would be a sailing outrigger canoe or a Drascombe, but they are very hard to find, thus you have to make do with what can be found easily.

I was very impressed by how well it was designed, and how solidly it was built. There is a bilge pump (was not expecting that), a solid rudder in a cassette type drop down fitting ( i still cant work out which is the rudder leading edge and whcih is the rudder trailing edge. It comes with a 2hp Honda 4 stroke outboard, plus a trailer. All in all it looks well designed and very solid.

A couple of questions, is there ballast in the boat, the centerboard seems to have ballast but I could not see any in the boat itself. What conditions do you think it is suitable for (no doubt I will start within Port Phillip Bay where it will be stored). It seems safe enough to go further if the weather was good.

On Saturday I will know a lot lot mroe. Overall impression was a very solid boat, and very well designed.

My guess is that I could sail it for a couple of years, and have a very good chance of breaking even on my sale. Which kinda begs the question, if a boat can be bought for much less than it costs to build, then why not just buy second hand and not build. Having said that I do accept that if no one built boats in the first place, there would be no boats to buy second hand.

Am looking forward to sailing this new boat

[James McMullen]

Peter, you may not know this yourself yet, but building boats is at least as much fun as using boats. Sometimes even more. Depends on the sailing conditions.

[tunznath]

Hi Peter - congrats - hope that you will be posting pictures of the boat - lots, I am thinking of building a tread lightly over a scamp because of the mizzen sail - look forward to seeing more info

regards
Nath - Faial AZORES

[Robert Meyer]

peterAustralia

By all means start a new thread on your Tread Lightly when you collect and sort her out. She is next on my build list after my Chesapeake skiff is completed. I've been wanting to build her before Scamp was designed. We demand pictures ... please!

[kenjamin]

Hi.

Kenjamin I am sure you will sail safely aboard your Scamp as she is configured.

Capsize talk.
Rarely, if ever have I seen a new boat introduced/launched and tied so closely to the word "capsize"........most designers/manufacturers don't address the topic but they should. In Scamps case it seems a good thing as her design proves going out on the water in a small boat can be quite stress free. Good work John Welsford.

As to Scamp and Capsize.
The discussion linkage may seem odd. When I joined the group conducting the capsize testing I advocated for it being done quietly in an out of the way place without any audience and one standby boat (the water and air were really cold). If successful I thought her creators could simply list "self rescue capable" as one of the attributes that make Scamp such an innovative package. Testing would have been completed and the scary capsize topic dropped. I believe Scamps safety level is so high as to be her greatest asset, add sparkling small boat sailing performance and well there you have it.

Hopefully the utube capsize videos posted by Small Craft Advisor may prove useful to new small boat sailors. The video demonstrates one method for self rescuing a small boat. Perhaps the videos may help raise awareness of "what a good small boat should be able to do" in a tight spot. Scamp is one solution. I do like bulkhead #3 set up as watertight achieved through the use of access hatches.

I believe more small boats should be capsize tested in wind and waves with the results documented and published.

A note:
Since there is much capsize discussion. With greatest respect to any reader here new to sailing or contemplating taking the helm of a wood sailing boat for the first time. Don't be too concerned about sailing and capsizing. In fact many of the boats you might chose are likely not prone to capsizing, they may be keel boats, be wide and stable, have internal ballast, amas, etc. The terms "capsize" and "sailing" are not inexorably linked. In other words don't worry too much about it. If you decide to sail a centerboard, daggerboard, leeboard etc, type of boat then plan ahead. Set it up for self rescue, which is very simply to do in most cases. Wear a life jacket, pick your conditions, sail a buoyant boat, practice flipping over, getting her up, getting you back aboard and quickly sailing again.

In any case capsizing will likely never happen to you. However if you know you are capable of self rescue you will have more confidence to sail more places in varied conditions. The small boat world is opened up for you to explore if you are aboard a self rescue able boat.

howard

Hello Howard,

I think you are right about SCAMP being more seaworthy with bulkhead 3 sealed but yes I did make sure to make bulkhead 3 extra beefy with a thick enough inner edge that someone could seal it up again if they were to feel the need someday. It could even be a removable panel with a waterproof gasket. For my purposes, most of my fishing will be in protected waters at least for a while until I get to know the boat better. I did make sure that under the cockpit sole will remain air cambers all the way to the bow. You've got me looking at ways to seal the bowsprit hole when the bow sprit is not in use. A rectangular inspection port would do the job nicely but I can't seem to find one in black – like all the other inspection ports on the boat.

The mast and sail I'll be using are already in existence and quite easy to handle although it is a bit undersized compared to the big lug rig. That's what has me messing with the bowsprit and setting a jib. I've weighed the mast but I've already forgotten what that figure is. I'll weigh it again and get back with you on that. I think it's about 25 lbs. but it will require a 40" extension piece (with 20" of bury) in order for it to work with the SCAMP. I can tell you the mast itself is easy to lift with a couple of fingers. The mast step will be a laminated spruce "X" box between bulkheads 3 & 4 and the mast will come to rest between two of the legs of the "X." Bulkhead 4 will have a decorative but functional enhancement of layers of laminated fir that beef up bulkhead 4 enough for it to be securely fastened to the mast step before bulkhead 4 is cut open to allow the mast to pass through it. The laminated fir bulkhead 4 will also allow me to mount some rock solid rod holders, drink racks, and also some pedestal mounts for my Mantis sunshade.

Here in St. Augustine there are plenty of places where I can test my birdwing SCAMP with a capsize test safely especially on an incoming tide so I won't have to worry about being swept out into the Atlantic. I agree that it would be wise on my part to find out how the boat responds to my righting input in controlled conditions before I find myself righting her in an emergency situation.

Thanks again for your input. I sincerely appreciate your help and I'll get back with you on the exact weight of the mast.

Edited to add: I weighed the mast again last night and it weighs 21 lbs. (9.5 kg).

I still have a couple of questions and a couple of comments:

In the open water capsize testing video on page one of this thread, do you remember how much water was left in the cockpit after righting her? It's impossible to tell from the video. Also was the water ballast in place for the test?

One thing I definitely noticed from the video was that the rudder became airborne before she finally went over. I think one of the twin rudders that we have planned for the birdwing SCAMP should stay engaged a second or two longer than the single rudder in a capsize. The other comment is that if I'm out fishing with my like new $1400 4 HP Yamaha on board if anyone thinks I'm going to even get close to capsizing my SCAMP while sailing home then they're even crazier than I am – and that's saying something!

Thanks in advance for your anwsers, kenjamin

[MoMan]

Howard--What are the chances that a Scamp will make a showing at the Rockport, TX Academy in July?

1. Scamp #1 will be sailed during the Port Townsend Small Craft Skills Academy. The event will kick off with a public small boat show on May 19th, 2012 at the Northwest Maritime Center in Port Townsend. The small boat show was originally scheduled for May 24th but has been changed so more folks can attend. Academy participant boats will be on site and everyone is welcome to stop by for a look and a chat with owners. The show is open to sailors who would like to bring their boats to show and talk about. I may have Scamp #1 on the water that day (I will have to clear this with her owner first, so no promises).

2. Scamp #6 will be the lead boat for the Cedar Key Small Craft Skills Academy, Cedar Key Florida. Saturday April 21st is registration and participant boat inspection day. Scamp will be available on the 21st if anyone would like to stop by for a look.

3. Scamp #3 may be on the water for the June 17th Small Craft Skills Academy held in Michigan. I am building #3 and time availability may delay her completion until July, we'll see. June 16th is registration day and if Scamp #3 is finished she will be on site for use as the Academy lead boat. I would be happy to let anyone interested take a look.

There will be Scamps at other Academies including the second Port Townsend Academy in September, Monterey Bay and Oklahoma.

[Howard Rice]

Answers embedded and marked ***
Kenjamin wrote:

I still have a couple of questions and a couple of comments:

In the open water capsize testing video on page one of this thread, do you remember how much water was left in the cockpit after righting her? It's impossible to tell from the video. Also was the water ballast in place for the test?

***There was about an inch I would say. Not really enough to cover the floor evenly, so perhaps a little less. Scamp #1 did have a few bugs to be worked out. One of which was a small leak somewhere in the vicinity of the port cockpit sump. A little water got below from this leak. In addition the two hatches in bulkhead #3 leaked a little more than I would have liked. Both of these issues were minor and have been or will be remedied by her owner. Capsize testing tells the sailor a great deal about his/her boat and gives us the opportunity to make improvements based on testing.

***The open water test video posted on utube is with ballast. Scamp was also static tested with and without ballast. I still have additional tests I hope to conduct in the near future, likely in May during the Small Craft Skills Academy in Port Townsend as I will be sailing #1. I had plans for fourteen different capsize scenarios (loaded/unloaded and with and without ballast) on different points of sail and in higher wind. Time and the cold conditions (this Pacific island boy got a little cold in spite of full dry suit) allowed a total of eight capsizes, 2 static and 6 open water.

One thing I definitely noticed from the video was that the rudder became airborne before she finally went over. I think one of the twin rudders that we have planned for the birdwing SCAMP should stay engaged a second or two longer than the single rudder in a capsize.

***I too noticed this and figure it doesn't matter much. Scamp wants to be sailed flat. In an extreme heeling (near capsize) situation she mushes along and doesn't seem to miss the rudder blade being in the water. I had thought to lengthen my rudder blade but figure as designed is fine since Scamp wants to explore shallow waters and as mentioned she wants to be sailed about as flat as any small boat I have sailed.

The other comment is that if I'm out fishing with my like new $1400 4 HP Yamaha on board if anyone thinks I'm going to even get close to capsizing my SCAMP while sailing home then they're even crazier than I am – and that's saying something!

***As stated capsizing is a rare if ever event for most sailors. Beginning sailors should learn how to avoid it and how to manage it should it happen. It is very good to know self rescue can be quickly and reliably managed aboard Scamp. Much like setting up and practicing reefing your rig self rescue skill allows greater confidence to sail further in varying conditions and situations.

Thanks in advance for your anwsers, kenjamin

**You are welcome.

[Howard Rice]

Howard--What are the chances that a Scamp will make a showing at the Rockport, TX Academy in July?

***Mike Monies will have the red Scamp in Texas. There may be one other. Who knows I may have #2 ready by then, hard to say.

[kenjamin]

Thanks Howard,

I've heard that SCAMP likes to be sailed flat somewhere else in my research before springing for the plans. Good to hear that from you too. The way I see my usage for SCAMP is to motor up river in the early morning glassy conditions, fish all morning, and then sail home after the afternoon sea breeze kicks up. Most of the time that should put us downwind sailing or on a broad reach to get home – easy sailing although the afternoon winds can really blow. Since I'm fitting the existing smaller birdwing mast to my SCAMP, the mainsail is undersized and will probably need the good breeze to get her moving well. Probably won't mess with the bowsprit and jib for fishing trips so she will be definitely under-canvassed and not likely to capsize especially with me at the helm. Also with the motor inboard in its well, it will be very easy to pull it out and get it lower in the boat. Will do some capsize testing of my own later this summer as you recommended. I've got a couple of 25 lb. lead bricks that I could clamp to the motor well to simulate the motor being there – should be interesting and enlightening.

Spent all day yesterday grinding off excess epoxy. Discussing fishing and sailing my SCAMP keeps me going through all that nastiness. I really appreciate your input and SCAMP testing. Thanks again, kenjamin.

[Howard Rice]

Hi
Your description of a day aboard Scamp sounds idyllic. Exactly what a small boat like Scamp offers, simplicity, versatility and a good day out doing what makes us happy. You like to fish, I like to go over there and explore new places. I think about short trips with my folding bicycle tucked under the veranda. Scamps "suitability for purpose" may take on many forms.

I have no plan for an engine set up because Scamp scoots in light air and I sail engineless. I get your engine use "early morning glassy conditions", makes sense for an avid angler.

Nice to read you plan to capsize test your boat. Good for you.

Thanks Howard,

I've heard that SCAMP likes to be sailed flat somewhere else in my research before springing for the plans. Good to hear that from you too. The way I see my usage for SCAMP is to motor up river in the early morning glassy conditions, fish all morning, and then sail home after the afternoon sea breeze kicks up. Most of the time that should put us downwind sailing or on a broad reach to get home – easy sailing although the afternoon winds can really blow. Since I'm fitting the existing smaller birdwing mast to my SCAMP, the mainsail is undersized and will probably need the good breeze to get her moving well. Probably won't mess with the bowsprit and jib for fishing trips so she will be definitely under-canvassed and not likely to capsize especially with me at the helm. Also with the motor inboard in its well, it will be very easy to pull it out and get it lower in the boat. Will do some capsize testing of my own later this summer as you recommended. I've got a couple of 25 lb. lead bricks that I could clamp to the motor well to simulate the motor being there – should be interesting and enlightening.

Spent all day yesterday grinding off excess epoxy. Discussing fishing and sailing my SCAMP keeps me going through all that nastiness. I really appreciate your input and SCAMP testing. Thanks again, kenjamin.

[keyhavenpotterer]

Great opportunity to build your SCAMP kit under the guidance of John Welsford himself!

http://smallcraftadvisor.com/message....php?f=3&t=333

Brian

[Howard Rice]

Hello All.

A Scamp FYI
Scamp has arrived at the first Small Craft Skills Academy here in Cedar Key Florida. She has already caused a number of traffic stops where she sits by the hotel. Several passerby's have come over for a bit of tire kicking, hull tapping, big time grins and long talks (funny they seem to ignore the other boats).

Dan Phy her builder and Steve Haines her new owner are here after a five day cruise together. Steve is the Academy Coordinator for Cedar Key and has been very gracious in offering Scamp to me for for use as the lead boat. Over the course of the four day Academy Scamp is available to be sailed by any of the participant sailors who wish to do so. I hope to be able to demonstrate heavy air handling and capsize recoveries aboard her. If there are any Florida or south Georgia sailors out there who are interested and would like to take a look Scamp and some other very interesting boats are at the Island Place resort in Cedar Key.
Nice to have a solid small boat as a working tool.
Best,
howard

[keyhavenpotterer]

News from Howard's first

Small Craft Skills Academy,

http://smallcraftadvisor.com/message....php?f=3&t=354

Quote:

SCAMP got a thorough workout at the first ever Small Craft Skills Academy; winds were so strong in Cedar Key (gusting to 30) that Howard Rice and staff decided to ground the variety of owner-boats in the fleet and use only a double-reefed SCAMP. Each student went out with Howard and performed high-stress gybe-to-gybe/ tack-to-tack drills in sustained 25-knot winds aboard the engineless Scamp.

During the critical part of a jibe, a novice had her hand slip off the wet tiller just as the crew switched sides and the boat was knocked over. Bystanders were amazed that Howard and the student had the boat righted in less than 20 seconds and were sailing away in little more than a minute. They returned to the beach to cheers from the Academy members and onlookers, before promptly heading out again with another crew.

We loved hearing that this little 11' 11" ship was the boat of choice when the going got rough, and that she performed as expected when the worst happened.

Congratulations to Howard and the Academy staff! The word we're getting is that the course was the experience of a lifetime. Thanks to Dan Phy for the photo.—Eds

[Howard Rice]

A note regarding the SCAMP capsize at the just concluded Small Craft Skills Academy in Cedar Key Florida.

The sailor who's hand slipped off the tiller was a person relatively new to sailing yet she as helmsman had just successfully completed a challenging high wind gybe and tack exercise. Scamp is a new boat to her. Her hand slipped off the tiller sailing back in to the beach just as a big gust hit. This was after she had tack/gybed more than a dozen consecutive times in wind gusting between 27 and 30kts. Over we went, simple as that.

On righting, which apparently took less than twenty seconds (Academy sailors watches timed it) we sailed back out for a short hitch, sort out lines reach and then came in to allow another student to go out for their tack/gybe heavy air exercise. This whole thing was quite low stress. Both of us (instructor and student) came up smiling after capsizing. It was rather fun and highly instructive for the Academy sailors observing from the beach. Two hours earlier I had presented a capsize/re-entry/sail away classroom presentation. Scamp was the only boat allowed out on this day as it was windy and gusty.

Congratulations and Thank you to Dana, Marty, Scott, Jim, Dan, Tom, Lou, Tom, Jim, Steve and Hugh. We had a great experience together across a range of conditions. I enjoyed sailing with you folks. I learned much and laughed until my sides ached.
howard

News from Howard's first

Small Craft Skills Academy,

http://smallcraftadvisor.com/message....php?f=3&t=354

Quote:

SCAMP got a thorough workout at the first ever Small Craft Skills Academy; winds were so strong in Cedar Key (gusting to 30) that Howard Rice and staff decided to ground the variety of owner-boats in the fleet and use only a double-reefed SCAMP. Each student went out with Howard and performed high-stress gybe-to-gybe/ tack-to-tack drills in sustained 25-knot winds aboard the engineless Scamp.

During the critical part of a jibe, a novice had her hand slip off the wet tiller just as the crew switched sides and the boat was knocked over. Bystanders were amazed that Howard and the student had the boat righted in less than 20 seconds and were sailing away in little more than a minute. They returned to the beach to cheers from the Academy members and onlookers, before promptly heading out again with another crew.

We loved hearing that this little 11' 11" ship was the boat of choice when the going got rough, and that she performed as expected when the worst happened.

Congratulations to Howard and the Academy staff! The word we're getting is that the course was the experience of a lifetime. Thanks to Dan Phy for the photo.—Eds

[Howard Rice]

SCAMP as the chosen Academy boat for heavy air training.
I have had two email inquiries regarding my decision to go with SCAMP on one of the heavy air days as opposed to other boats in the Academy fleet. First off I have to say there were some excellent participant boats (my personal favorite being Jim Farrelly's Yakaboo, which he built) but given what I was asking participants to do (heavy air gybes and tacks) plus what I refer to as stress gybing it seemed entirely prudent to go with SCAMP. In addition I asked two participants to actually face backwards and sail as each needed work on helming technique. This is a very effective confidence builder. I have the sailor face aft and I tap the shoulder on the side I wish them to steer toward. Sounds odd but it works.

Here is why I chose SCAMP and asked all other boats to stay ashore.
a. I have sailed SCAMP in heavy air and know how she handles.
b. I was taking a number of novice to intermediate level sailors out in real wind.
c. Participants were worried about using their boats in the heavy wind we had.
d. I know I can right, re-enter and sail SCAMP away in the event of a capsize even in gusty high winds.
e. SCAMP will just about turn in her own length. The stress gybing was a series of linked gybes (reach to reach and straight gybing) with random tacks thrown in as
a confidence and skill builder. Looks like we have armed some novice to intermediate sailors with skills that will keep them safe.
f. SCAMP is simply and cleanly set up and rigged, nothing extra, all business. Something as simple as an aft mooring cleat in the wrong place can cause real trouble
in heavy air gybing (mainsheets catch on everything).

The question came down to my having confidence in SCAMP as I knew she was capable. Reach to reach gybing is not easy on a boat (and we had gusts up to 30) and SCAMP came through without a hitch. I figure she gybed and tacked more than 100 times over the space of a few hours in heavy air. Not bad for any boat much less one at 11'11" and she did it without incident. The capsize was a simple post exercise mistake. A mistake any one of us could make.

If anyone is interested in a more detailed synopsis of the SCAMP Academy experience I can post a short and concise report of observations. Maybe this is not the place for that sort of thing. Let me know and I can get it done.

FYI: There is an event in Port Townsend on 5/19 "The Pocket Yacht Palooza at the NW Maritime Center and SCAMP will be there as hull #1 is my primary teaching boat for the Academy which begins the next morning. If you have a small boat come to PT and join the boat show er Palooza. It is a one day small boat show, everyone is welcome to come for a look or to bring a boat. Hope to see lots of folks there as this will be a great way to compare many small boats dedicated to day sailing and pocket cruising.