Designer Nelson Zimmer based this double-ended shoal-draft ketch design on the highly regarded Mackinaw boats that worked Lake Michigan and Lake Superior during the late 1800s.
The plank-on-frame construction features Northern White Cedar planking and White Oak for the keel, frames, and centerboard trunk.
Her powerful gaff ketch rig carries plenty of canvas and is well spread along the length of the boat.
Being long-keeled, she won’t tack very quickly, but with the right breeze, she’ll provide a good turn of speed.
Plans for Nelson Zimmer’s Mackinaw are available from The WoodenBoat Store.
One of my favorite boats at the WBS, and fun to sail for everyone aboard.
I am such a sucker for a pretty double-ender. With family from that area of the country, this hits home for me two ways. If only I had the time to build such a pretty boat.