Custom Work 2007
Sailing the ARAB II...
My interest in boats was spawned in Bristol, England where I purchased an historic 1901 wooden rowing, sailing lifeboat named ARAB II. For more information on her history see here ARAB II.
"The English Canals"
She had been converted to a 'live aboard' for the English canals & I decided to rig her once again for sailing. After much research & study, I choose a Chinese Junk Rig and armed with this information set off to design the various pieces (mast, yard & rigging) before finally sewing together the 3202 ft sail.
"Raising the Mast"
With this set up, my partner & I sailed around the south coast of England, crossed the English channel & entered the French Canals for the winter.
"A lock outside Paris"
At the Mediterranean, before we continued our journey to the Balearic Isles, we decided to add a mizzen mast/sail using traditional bamboo for the battens of the junk sail. We found an ample supply of bamboo growing on the banks of the Rhone.
"Pollenca on the Island of Majorca"
After 4,000 nautical miles we had no problems with the rig. On route it became apparent over & over again, how people appreciate the detail & natural beauty of wood. They are craft as opposed to vessels. The old lady was much admired. With this experience in mind I decided to produce small wooden sail/row boats of traditional lines & modern techniques for those who believe that function & beauty aren't mutually exclusive.
"A Magnificent Old Lady"