Classic open sailing/rowing boat Spirit® 17

with open transomsloop

The pleasure of sailing a Whitehall Spirit® 17 is enhanced by the ease of handling it’s classy and efficient sail rig. This sailing rowboat delights everyone from the beginner to the most ardent sailor with its ability to sail comfortably with three or four adults aboard, carry picnic supplies or camping gear. It can and sail in very shallow water due to its kick-up rudder and bronze centerboard. All the midship fixed seats are removable for ease of crew movement while sailing and can be replaced easily if the wind drops, converting it back into an efficient rowboat. The large sail area possible on a low mast reduces the heeling movement of the boat (tendency to tip) without sacrificing performance. This rig is fast and easy to set up. The free-standing mast requires no stays or wires and simply lifts out to stow within the boat. The mainsail on this standing lug style rig can be tacked across in full control using only the mainsheet. When there’s no wind or anytime a good fitness row is required, with the sailing gear and fixed seats removed, one or two optional slide seat sculling units with bronze hinging outriggers can be installed. This provides stability, comfort, and safety even while rowing in wind and waves. In sculling mode it is well suited for beginners, experienced or even hard-core competitive rowers, for fitness training or cross-training, for those who desire a low-impact, full-body workout. In slide seat sculling mode, the layout is virtually identical the Whitehall Spirit® Slide Seat Sculling Model. This model features built-in buoyancy forward and aft and is shown here with the optional removable solid teak floorboard system.