SPECIFICATIONS
LOA   11' 7"
LWL   8' 6"
Beam   48 3/4"
Draft (board up/down)   5"/27"
Depth amidships   14 1/2"  
Sail Area 50 (lug) 45 sf (sprit) 

The Echo Bay Dory Skiff combines the spirit and versatility of a traditional dory with the performance of a small sailing dinghy.  Designed to be cartoppable, the Echo Bay is lightweight for her size, tipping the scales at only 85lbs when built from a kit.  This results in a skiff that rows and sails nimbly, and is exceptionally easy to move around, load, and launch.

With her graceful sheer and classic proportions, the Echo Bay is as beautiful as she is seaworthy. Her safety and versatility as a sail and row trainer has made the Echo Bay a popular choice for local camps, father-and-son building teams, and family boatbuilding groups. 

With 50 feet of sail area – either sprit or lug rig – and an efficient daggerboard, the Echo Bay is rewarding for new and seasoned sailors alike.  Both rigs provide the convenience of being easily set and struck, and allow for an efficient yet simple sail plan.  Even with her spirited performance under sail, the Echo Bay can be sailed in challenging conditions, moving through rough water without the pounding typical of many flat-bottomed boats.  No compromises have been made with regard to safety, and with optional airtight buoyancy tanks fore and aft, the Echo Bay will stay afloat even in the event of a capsize. 

The Echo Bay can be built from plans alone or from a kit, and is a great choice for the first-time boatbuilder.  Construction time takes 75 to 175 hours, depending on whether built from a kit or plans, and on the level of finish desired.  Some have been built and launched in only two and a half days at the WoodenBoat Show Family Boatbuilding events. 

The Echo Bay won the fixed seat-class at the Compass Project Rowgatta for several years running. 

A recent sail in my own Echo Bay reminded me of the pleasure of owning a simple and practical boat.  In just five minutes I was able to set up the sailing rig, stow the oars in their custom holders, and sail away from the dock.  Whether sailing or rowing, built by the whole family or by an experienced boatbuilder, the Echo Bay Dory Skiff is a delight to build and rewarding to own.