13’4″ Selway Fisher Melonseed Skiff

Description

13’4” Melonseed Skiff – A Classic Reimagined

The 13’4” Melonseed Skiff carries forward the same timeless elegance as her 16’ sister design. In fact, this shorter version is the size most often found along the historic shores of New Jersey, making her a true classic brought to life.

What sets her apart is the pierced toe rail, a detail frequently seen on the original boats. This traditional touch can also be added to the 16’ version, allowing builders to choose their own style.

Her unstayed sprit rig is simple, efficient, and easy to handle, making her ideal for relaxed sailing. Meanwhile, the addition of a centreboard instead of the traditional daggerboard offers greater convenience, especially when sailing in shallow waters.

For comfort and character, the design includes a curved canoe-style cockpit coaming, which adds grace while offering more space. However, for those who prefer an authentic vintage look, the original rectangular cockpit can still be built following the drawings.

Just like her longer sister, the 13’4” Melonseed features a strip-planked hull with flowing, graceful lines. The result is a boat that is not only a joy to build but also a delight to sail—an ideal project for enthusiasts who value tradition, beauty, and performance.

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✅ Key Features

• LOA: 13’4” – compact, classic, and manageable size

• Pierced toe rail for traditional character

• Unstayed sprit rig for simplicity and ease of use

• Centreboard for shallow-water convenience

• Canoe-style curved cockpit coaming (with option for original rectangular style)

• Graceful strip-planked hull for beauty and strength

🌊 Perfect For

• Traditional boat enthusiasts who want a piece of American sailing heritage

• Home builders looking for a rewarding strip-plank project

• Sailors who enjoy easy handling, shallow-water sailing, and timeless beauty

13’4″ Selway Fisher Melonseed Skiff Specifications

Description	Imperial	Metric
LOA	13'4"	4.06m
Beam	4 4 1/2"	1.33m
Hull Mid Depth	1' 2 3/4"	0.37m
Draft	6 1/4" or 2'5"	0.16m or 0.73m
Sail Area	62.4 sq.ft	5.8 sq.m
Estimated Dry weight	331lbs	150kg
Hull Shape	Stripped planked round bilge
Construction method	Strip plank
Strip wood requirements	200m 9x33mm
Drawing/ Design Package	7 x A1 drawings	9 x A4 instructions
Guidance usage	2 -3 Adults