12′ Catspaw Dinghy

12' Catspaw Dinghy

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These plans have evolved from some modifications made by Joel White and WoodenBoat on the design of a Herreshoff Columbia model lapstrake dinghy now in the collection of Mystic Seaport Museum. Plans for the original 11 ½’ version were published in Building the Herreshoff Dinghy by Barry Thomas and were the basis for this 10% enlargement.

Spencer Lincoln

Particulars

Because lapstrake boats are vulnerable to plank damage when used as beach boats on rocky Maine shores, it was decided to go to smooth-planked carvel construction, with the plank thickness increased from 3/8″ to 1/2″. A pivoted centerboard was adapted so that the board could strike bot­tom without harm to itself or the trunk. A single boomless sprit rig gave the boat shorter spars and gave the crew less aggravation.

Spencer Lincoln

Line drawing

The plans for the Catspaw Dinghy are very detailed and include full-size mold patterns which, if used with the building instructions contained in WB Nos. 26, 27, and 28, should make this lovely round-bottomed boat easy to build for an amateur. Full-size patterns for the stem, transom, rudder, and station molds are included with the lines, offsets, con­struction plan, and sail plan. Lofting is not required. If one is determined to build a round-bottomed boat, this could make an ideal first one.

Spencer Lincoln

Profile, body plan, and half breadths and diagonals.

WoodenBoat’s Catspaw Dinghy carries three people in comfort; more can be accommodated if conditions are calm. Two people can carry her for short distances, as in loading on a truck or trailer, or lifting up and down a beach. She’s a good all-around boat, rows easily, sails well, and tracks well when towed. Although we are not enthusiastic about the idea, she could be powered by a small outboard. She is very seaworthy. Check out this installment of our Aboard Small Boats video series to catch the Catspaw Dinghy in action. WB Plan No. 12. $60.00.

Spencer Lincoln

Top view

Additional Reading

Need more detailed steps for building your Catspaw Dinghy? Purchase a print or digital copy of How to Build the Catspaw Dinghy from the WoodenBoat Store. This overview manual includes 32 pages of step-by-step instructions with plenty of detailed steps and black-and-white construction photos.

Plan 12
DESCRIPTION
Hull type: Round-bottomed, transom stern, centerboarder
Rig: Spritsail
Construction: Carvel planked over steamed frames
PERFORMANCE
* Suitable for: Protected waters
* Intended capacity: 3-4
Trailerable: Yes
Propulsion: Sails, oars, outboard
Speed (knots): 2-4
BUILDING DATA
Skill needed: Intermediate
Lofting required: No
* Alternative construction: Lapstrake or strip
Helpful WB issues: WB Nos. 26-28, or monograph
PLANS DATA
No. of sheets: 6
Level of detail: Extreme
Cost per set: $60.00
WB Plan No. 12

Completed Catspaw Dinghy Images

Joel White’s Catspaw Dinghy is an adaptation of Nathanael Herreshoff’s Columbia Dinghy.

JESSE performs best under fairly sizable oars — 7½′ or better—and has two rowing stations.