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This handsome double-ender is one of Iain’s most popular and versatile designs and is guaranteed to turn heads on any waterfront. With well-balanced, relatively high ends, this lean and long yawl shows considerable reserve buoyancy above the waterline throughout her length. She’s comfortable to sail in a stiff breeze and dazzles in light air and to windward. In steady winds she’ll safely sail heeled over, her crew central and sitting up to windward. Set the mizzen first and it will keep the boat squarely into the wind while you raise the mainsail. To assure positive tacking, simply back the mizzen to the inside of the turn as you come about. The push/pull tiller may take some time to get used to but it works perfectly. Pulling the tiller forward will turn the boat to port. This boat was named in honor of Gordon Swift, an outstanding boatbuilder and long-time instructor at WoodenBoat School who passed away in 2013.
This is a handsome, stable dory that is a fun boat to row. Traditionally used as workboats, dories, if properly handled, provide a wonderful source of pleasure and exercise to the oarsperson.
Very responsive and quick. Take along a couple of cushions to sit on for more comfort. Construction of boat was featured in WoodenBoat #96, #97 & #98.
In getting underway, hoist the mainsail before the jib. In lowering the sails, drop the jib before the mainsail; it’s an indication of good seamanship and helps prevent the boat’s bow from blowing off downwind after you’ve picked up the mooring.
Just who built the original design and when are not known for sure, although it is reputed to have been built about 1880 at Northport, Maine, by a member of a Northport boatbuilding family by the name of Drinkwater. It shows a strong resemblance to boats used for recreational rowing in the 1880’s on the Charles River in Boston. The skiff is not heavy for its size and is a very speedy rower, although a bit tender.
This is the classic yacht club racing boat and wonderful craft to learn the art of small boat sailing. A good-size sail makes it a fun boat to sail. Take along a couple of cushions to sit on for added comfort. She sails best with the gaff well peaked up.
JESSE is an all-purpose boat. Safe, stable; she’s easy to row and makes a nice sailing dinghy to boot. She goes best under fairly sizable oars — 7½′ or better and has two rowing stations.
This is a jewel of a boat! She’s very nice to paddle with double-paddle and fun to sail with her complicated little rig (for light airs only). Please treat this boat with special care—she’s worth it.
Excellent rowing and sailing dinghy for beginners on up. As in most boats this size, trim is very important; try to keep her level fore and aft, perhaps a little bow high when going to weather. When rowing with one passenger aboard, use the forward rowing station.
This was one of the best experiences of my life!”
I am a much better, confident sailor thanks to WoodenBoat School.”
