A pocket cruiser’s little brother

In 2003, Kevin Jeffrey introduced the Norseboat, a 17-foot pocket cruiser that could also be rowed if the wind died. With its canopy/tent accommodations and shoal draft centerboard, the Norseboat provided for the ultimate in adventure gunkholing for the hardy low-impact, small-boat voyager. Now Jeffrey’s company has introduced a smaller version of the Norseboat.

From the press release: NorseBoat Limited has introduced the NorseBoat 12.5 Sailing & Rowing Cruiser. Strong yet lightweight, this design blends performance sailing and rowing characteristics and overnight camping accommodations into one classic looking dinghy.

Designed by Laurie McGowan as a sistership to the NorseBoat 17.5, the traditionally styled 12.5 uses a proven hull shape known for both speed and shallow draft utility. Her lines are distinctly NorseBoat and offer the ideal multi-use yacht tender, daysailer and mini camp-cruiser all in one package. With a 4-person capacity, the 12.5 accepts a small outboard motor and features two rowing stations, positive flotation and cockpit seats that convert to a full-size double berth.
All rowing and sailing gear fits neatly into a padded bag that stores easily in the cockpit. The optional camp tent fully encloses the cockpit creating comfortable overnight accommodations. Standard features include large cockpit storage compartments, deck hardware, two rowing thwarts, one set of oars and a complete sailing kit with free-standing carbon mast, fully battened mainsail, and Harken hardware. Optional equipment includes a trailer, second set of oars, roller furling headsail and storage cover.

The 12.5 is available in two models, a glass/wood hybrid with infused resin fiberglass hull and wood/epoxy deck and interior, or an all wood version with modern wood/epoxy glue-lap construction. Both models are professionally built or offered as an easily assembled amateur kit.
Available in early in 2008, the 12.5 preproduction prices will be $12,995 for the prebuilt hybrid model or $9,495 for the kit. A prebuilt all wood model will cost $14,995 or $8,995 in kit form.
Founded in 2003 with the successful introduction of the NorseBoat 17.5, NorseBoat Limited specializes in producing traditionally designed, multi-use sailing and rowing boats. To date over 65 of the 17.5s have been produced. The 12.5 will be produced at their new facility in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. The original Norseboat 17.5 is shown below with Jeffrey at the oars.

By Ocean Navigator