Penobscot 14 Sprit rig

Description

The Penobscot 14 is a versatile, lightweight glued-lapstrake plywood daysailer/rowboat/motor launch designed by Arch Davis (Arch Davis Design, Maine, USA) and first built by the designer in 1992. It draws inspiration from traditional Maine coast small craft with elegant lines, a fine high bow, double-ended hull form, and five-strake planking for beauty and performance in protected waters, coastal daysailing, or camp-cruising. Featured in a three-part series in WoodenBoat magazine (1997–1998), it's optimized for amateur builders (detailed plans with full-size patterns, no lofting; kits and pre-cut frames available), using stitch-and-glue or glued-lapstrake plywood/epoxy construction with positive flotation for self-rescuing capability. Available sailing rigs include gunter, lug, or sprit (with daggerboard or centerboard options), plus oars and small outboard compatibility; it's praised for excellent rowing (light and efficient), spirited sailing (dry, stable, and responsive), seaworthiness beyond its size, and family-friendly use. Production is plans/kit-based (via Arch Davis Design or retailers like Duckworks), with hundreds of hulls built by home builders and schools (no mass-factory run), and it remains available today as a popular entry-level classic.