While I could write volumes on how much I have enjoyed my Pathfinder, I feel compelled to do another build. The Pathfinder was my first attempt with building and I had a huge amount of help from my Father. I learned a lot from that build and was fortunate to have a retired father that is a Master Woodworker, Engineer and Sailor to take me through the process. This time I am doing the project solo. So with plans in hand I begin to prepare for the build.
Why did I pick the AWOL if I have a Pathfinder?
Well they are similar, but very different. Both boats can be classified as cruisers but the focus is a little different. That Pathfinder is a sturdy boat the is incredibly stable. While it will get up and move, it is very forgiving boat. I chose this boat especially for this. I grew up sailing catamarans with my father, and knew if I wanted my wife and two children to sail with me I would have to offer them a much more stable and dryer ride. The Pathfinder is a fantastic boat for taking people out for a relaxing cruise. Even when the conditions are not quite ideal, this boat can make for a great day of sailing. A friend of mine who is more experienced with boats designed for racing likened sailing the Pathfinder to driving an SUV. Not saying there is not a good deal of performance with a Pathfinder, I often get comments of surprise as I pass other boats of comparable class.
The AWOL (as I understand it) is a cruiser that leans more towards performance. While still a solid cruiser that can support sailing/camping campaigns. It's is more focused on thrill verses comfort. This is for the days when you want to feel the sea spray and thrill of leaning out over the rail to eek out every knot you can. Additionally the AWOL draft is ~ 6 inches. This comes in very handy for exploring the Texas bays and spoilage islands that are very shallow. This boat I plan to single hand a lot and will be a blast to camp in. Goal is to have her ready for 2016 Texas 200.
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Pathfinder
by John WelsfordL O A 5.25 M 17 FT 4 IN BEAM 1.95 M 6 FT 5 IN WEIGHT (dry, inc. motor) 220 KG 485 LBS SAIL AREA 15.1 SQM 162 SQFT |
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AWOL
by John Welsford LOA 5.05m - 16ft 5in Beam 1.910m - 6ft 4in ------------------ Draft (CB up)0. 160m - 6-1/4in Draft (CB dn) 1.2m - 4ft ------------------ Sail Areas Jib 3.3sm - 36sf Main 7.85sm - 85sf Gennaker 8sm - 86sf ------------------ Dry Wt Rigged 210 kg 460 lbs |
