CATBOATS RETURN TO SOLOMONS

Jun 28, 2011, 15:19

CATBOATS RETURN TO SOLOMONS

Back by popular demand, catboats return to the Calvert Marine Museum's Boat Basin on Sunday, July 3. The Patuxent River Shootout will begin at approximately 12:15 p.m. When not racing, catboats will be on display from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

The Catboat is a New England traditional sailing craft with a design that dates back to the 1800s, but with origins in England some say. Originating in name and most commonly referred to as the Cape Cod Catboat, it was first used as a fishing boat, and can be found in many design variations. It became the dominant inshore workboat in New England, as well as a boat for both social and racing pleasures.  It is most often seen on the East Coast, from the Chesapeake to New England and found its way to California in the late 1800's. Typically half as wide as it is long, and best known by its shallow draft, gaff rig and mast forward in the bow of the boat, this boat is ideal for cruising the shallow waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Typical boats are found between 14 and 25 feet long, but feel much larger and are easily sailed by one, though when the wind pipes up another hand can be welcome with the typically large/oversized mainsail.  A Menger 23 carries 435 square feet of sail.

For more information on catboats and catboating events locally, visit the Chesapeake Catboat Association's website at www.chesapeakecatboats.org.