A Cape Cutter 19 Rowboat?
When I first launched my boat last year with its newly installed inboard diesel engine, one of my sailing advisors (I have many) told me I should take an outboard engine and an inflatable dinghy to raft alongside in case the diesel failed and it would enable me to get back to my berth if there was no wind. I was confident it would not fail but took his advice and piled in a 2.5hp outboard and an Avon Redcrest inflatable. It did not fail but I was surprised how much room they took up inside the boat. I have not taken them since but in December, I was out in the boat with temperatures close to zero and the wind died completely and I did wonder how I would get back if the engine failed. The prospect of being stuck out in the boat during the night with temperatures falling below zero was thought provoking and I wondered if it would be possible to row the boat?
Discussions with a rowing enthusiast indicated that rowing a 1.5tonne boat should be possible. Also, sculling from the stern would be an option.
I think by sitting on the bridge deck and using relatively long oars (carbon fibre naturally) and rowlocks fitted into the top of the coamings, this should be possible. The lightweight oars could then easily be stored below. The problem at the moment is, I cannot bring myself to drill two holes in the coamings for the rowlocks, despite having considerably hacked the boat about to install the diesel engine!
What are other members’ views on rowing a Cape Cutter?
Regards
David Peck
CC94 Whistling Rufus