Description
The Elegant Punt, cataloged as Design #350 by Phil Bolger (1922–2009), is a minimalist 7'9" flat-bottomed rowing dinghy designed for simplicity, affordability, and quick construction. Introduced in the 1970s and featured in Harold "Dynamite" Payson's Instant Boats (1979), it’s one of Bolger’s quintessential "instant boat" designs, crafted for amateur builders using plywood and basic tools. The Elegant Punt is ideal as a tender for larger vessels or for calm-water rowing in ponds, lakes, or sheltered harbors. Its high sides and lightweight construction (under 50 lbs) make it stable and portable, though it’s not suited for heavy loads or rough conditions. An optional sailing rig adds versatility for light breezes.
Bolger designed it to be built in a single day, emphasizing nailed plywood construction (though modern builders often use epoxy for durability). Its charm lies in its no-frills functionality—perfect for those who want a quick, cheap boat without complex lofting or woodworking skills. Over 500 have been built, often featured in DIY boatbuilding communities.
