Fatty Knees

Summary

The Fatty Knees fibreglass sailing dinghies were designed by Lyle Hess[1] (1912–2002). Produced in 7’ (2.1m), 8’ (2.4m) and 9’ (2.7m) long models. The 8’ model has a 4’ (1.2m) beam. Primarily designed as a yacht tender with good rowing and towing characteristics, the boat can be sailed, with enough width in the beam to provide stability.[2]

Fatty Knees
Development
DesignerLyle Hess
NameFatty Knees
Boat
Crew1 (7' version)
2 (8' version)
2/3 (9' version)
TrapezeNo
Hull
TypeMonohull
ConstructionFibreglass
Hull weight90 lb (41 kg) (7' version)
110 lb (50 kg) (8' version)
110 lb (50 kg) (9' version)
LOA7 ft (2.1 m)
8 ft (2.4 m)
9 ft (2.7 m)
Beam4 ft (1.2 m) (7' version)
4 ft 3 in (1.30 m) (8' version)
4 ft 6 in (1.37 m) (9' version)
Hull appendages
Keel/board typeDaggerboard
Sails
Total sail area40 sq ft (3.7 m2) (7' version)
50 sq ft (4.6 m2) (8' version)
60 sq ft (5.6 m2) (9' version)

The hull has a lapstrake appearance. The thwarts and dagger-board trunk are fiberglass inserts glassed into the hull and are watertight. It is cat rigged with a Bermuda mainsail. A transom notch allows sculling. Equipped with oarlocks for rowing. A small outboard motor can be mounted to port. Sailing gear is designed to be stored inside the hull. About 2000 dinghies have been produced.[citation needed]

References edit

  1. ^ Nicholson, Darrell (January 7, 2004). "Inflatable Tenders vs. Hard Tenders". Cruising World. Retrieved May 3, 2010.
  2. ^ "Stable Sailor". Popular Science. 220 (6): 75. 1982.

External links edit

  • Official website