Pelican 17

Description

The Pelican 17 Sailer (also known as the Economical 17 ft Pelican Sailer) is an American sailboat designed by A. Neely Hall as a simple, affordable coastal daysailer and tender for recreational use on small lakes, ponds, or sheltered harbors. Introduced in the 1930s–1940s through Hall's craft patterns (Craft Patterns No. 2650), it emerged during the Great Depression era as part of Hall's prolific output of amateur boat plans for Popular Mechanics magazine and his books like "How to Make Sailing Models and Boats" (1920s–1940s). Hall, a self-taught model maker and mechanical engineer, focused on economical, easy-to-build designs for hobbyists, with the Pelican emphasizing plywood construction for low cost and simplicity. Production was plans-based only (no factory boats), with hundreds built by amateurs using wood, emphasizing a fractional sloop rig for light-air performance and a centerboard for shallow drafts. The design features a wooden monohull with a centerboard for stable handling, a narrow beam for portability, and a basic sloop rig for straightforward sail trim, with a low displacement/length ratio for quick acceleration and minimal ballast for lightweight responsiveness, though its low freeboard limits it to calm conditions. Historical notes highlight its "economical and enjoyable" qualities as a "versatile casual boat," though it's best for protected waters. Plans are vintage collectibles, available via reprints or archives.