Cape Cod Catboat: KLW105

$175.00

About Cape Cod Catboat: KLW105

Cape Cod Catboat | An American original. The catboat has been recognized as one of the true American boats. Its most successful version was developed for the difficult fishing and lobstering conditions along Massachusetts’s Cape Cod. They worked as much as 30 miles offshore in shallow waters with strong tides. They had to be shoal draft, fast, seaworthy, weatherly, and inexpensive. It was a tall order…but the catboat did it all and more. Catboats exist today as popular yachts.

A Cape Cod Catboat is a unique and beloved style of sailing vessel that originated in the coastal region of Cape Cod, Massachusetts in the late 19th century. These boats were designed specifically for the shallow and often treacherous waters of Cape Cod, making them perfectly suited for navigating the unpredictable conditions of the area. The distinctive feature of a Cape Cod Catboat is its single sail, which is set on a short mast located near the bow of the boat. This design allows for easy handling and maneuverability, making it a popular choice for both recreational sailing and commercial fishing.

Our plank on bulkhead model, with laser cut basswood and mahogany parts, is a fine example of this purpose developed boat. It is important to note that some pictured items may have been built with optional items not included as part of standard kits, such as pedestals, bases, cases, paint, etc.

If there are any questions about the contents of a particular kit, please contact Bluejacket.

Paint Kit Contents:

Thinner (1 oz)
Clear (1 oz)
Primer
Flat White
Italian Dark Brown
British Crimson

LOA: 20″

Scale: 3/4″

Finished Model: $1,900.00

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What’s in a Kit? →

About a Cape Cod Catboat

The Cape Cod Catboat’s history can be traced back to the 1840s, when local fishermen and sailors began experimenting with smaller, more nimble boats to navigate the shallow waters and sandbars of Cape Cod Bay. The first catboat was a traditional wooden vessel, but over time, the design evolved to include a wider beam and a shallower draft, making it even more suitable for the local waters. By the late 1800s, the Cape Cod Catboat had become a popular choice for local fishermen and was also gaining recognition as a popular racing boat.

One of the most notable features of a Cape Cod Catboat is its unique rigging. The single sail is set on a gaff rig, which is a type of four-sided sail that is supported by a spar called a gaff. This design allows for easy reefing and lowering of the sail, making it ideal for navigating the unpredictable winds and currents along the Cape Cod coastline. The gaff rig also gives the boat a distinctive appearance, with its large, triangular sail and tall mast.

In addition to its practical design, the Cape Cod Catboat also has a rich cultural significance in the region. These boats were not only used for fishing and racing, but also for transportation and leisure activities. During the summer months, affluent families from Boston and New York would sail their catboats to Cape Cod for vacations, bringing with them the tradition of leisurely cruising and picnicking on the water. This tradition continues today, as Cape Cod Catboats are still popular among recreational sailors who appreciate their simplicity and charm.

One of the most famous Cape Cod Catboats is the ‘Herreshoff 12 1/2,’ designed by renowned naval architect Nathanael Herreshoff in 1914. This boat, known for its beauty and excellent sailing characteristics, quickly became the standard for catboats and is still highly sought after by collectors and sailors today. The ‘Herreshoff 12 1/2’ is even recognized as the official boat of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, cementing its place in the history and culture of Cape Cod.

In conclusion, the Cape Cod Catboat is a beloved and iconic vessel that represents the unique history and culture of the Cape Cod region. Its practical design, distinctive rigging, and cultural significance make it a cherished part of the maritime heritage of this coastal community. Whether used for fishing, racing, or leisurely cruising, the Cape Cod Catboat continues to capture the hearts of sailors and enthusiasts alike, and will surely remain a beloved and enduring symbol of Cape Cod for generations to come.

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Cape Cod Catboat: KLW105

$175.00

About

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By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Bluejacket Shipcrafters, Inc.. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact