Shellbacks—Aretha and Rachel

Length: 11′ 2″

Beam: 4′ 5″

Draft: board up 6″, board down 2′ 3″

Sail area: 56 sq.ft.

Weight: 115 lbs.

Rig: Standing lug

Designer: Joel White

Builders of RACHEL: Matt Murphy, Rich Hilsinger, Rob Dwelley, and Jim Miller, ’93–’94;

Builders of ARETHA: Pat Lown, Michaela Baldwin, and Marion Wright, ’95

Construction: Glued lapstrake mahogany plywood

Usual location: Mooring or at float (rudders, tillers, daggerboards, and rigs are stored in the Boathouse.)

Comments: Jon Wilson says, “The Shellback provides an education in the fine points of sailing, rowing, and sculling for sailors of all ages, her standing lug rig easily dropped altogether if the winds come on too strong. She is not easily adapable to outboard power, primarily because the weight of the motor throws her fine hull out of trim, but she rows well enough to provide plenty of efficiency and speed, even with a load.” Sailed correctly these Shellbacks are very quick and responsive. For comfort and safety, adult sailors should sit on the floor, not thwarts, when under sail.