The Cornish Crabber 17, also known as the Shrimper 17, is a small British sailboat designed for sailors who appreciate traditional and versatile boats. This dayboat stands out with its classic design and performance, perfectly suited for coastal sailing. It is an excellent choice for those who take pleasure in sailing a charming, well-built vessel.
The Boat’s History
Designed by naval architect Roger Dongray, the Cornish Crabber 17 was launched in 1989 by the Cornish Crabbers shipyard, based in Wadebridge, UK. Initially named the Crabber 17, it was renamed Shrimper 17 in 2015 when the shipyard standardized the names of its trailerable boats.
This sailboat is built from fiberglass with wooden finishes, reflecting the aesthetic of traditional boats from the western coast of Cornwall. While the exact number of units produced is not specified, Cornish Crabbers has built over 3,000 boats since its inception, including more than 1,100 Shrimper 19s. Too heavy to be considered a sail-and-oar boat, the Cornish Crabber 17 is a competitor to the Drascombe Lugger.
Interior Layout
The Shrimper 17 is primarily designed for day sailing but offers some accommodation for short outings. The interior space includes two longitudinal benches that can serve as sleeping berths for two people. While there is no built-in galley, the layout allows for carrying a portable stove for preparing simple meals.
A portable toilet can also be installed under the deck. The headroom is limited, but a foldable canopy with a zippered rear panel provides additional sheltered space, offering protection against the weather and enhancing comfort during stopovers.
Sailing Performance
The Shrimper 17 is praised for its stability and maneuverability, making it ideal for coastal and inland water sailing. Thanks to its lifting centerboard, it has a shallow draft, allowing sailors to explore shallow areas and easily beach the boat on sandy shores.
The masthead rig, featuring a gaff mainsail and a jib on a bowsprit, provides 16.5 m² of sail area, ensuring efficient propulsion even in moderate winds. The boat is typically equipped with a 2.5 to 5-horsepower outboard motor, mounted in a well at the rear of the cockpit, making harbor maneuvers and calm-weather sailing easier.
Owners’ Opinions
Owners of the Shrimper 17 often praise its traditional aesthetic, solid construction, and ease of use. The cockpit layout is spacious and well-thought-out, allowing for comfortable sailing, whether single-handed or with a small crew.
The inclusion of an outboard motor well is particularly appreciated, as it improves boat control during maneuvers. However, some owners point out that wooden spars require regular maintenance to preserve their appearance and durability.
Cornish Crabber 17 Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Overall length | 5.18 m |
| Length with bowsprit | 6.10 m |
| Waterline length | 4.88 m |
| Beam | 2.06 m |
| Draft | 0.48 m (centerboard up) / 1.22 m (down) |
| Displacement | 658 kg |
| Sail area | 16.5 m² |
| Engine | 2.5 to 5 HP outboard |
| Designer | Roger Dongray |
| Builder | Cornish Crabbers |
| Construction material | Fiberglass with wooden finishes |
| Launch year | 1989 |
| Number of units built | Exact figures unavailable |
| Intended use | Coastal and inland sailing, day trips, short cruises |
| Competitors | Memory 19, Coastal Weekender Whammel, North Quay 17, Loch Broom Post Boat |
The Cornish Shrimper 17 remains a benchmark for lovers of traditional sailboats who seek a combination of charm, performance, and versatility for serene coastal sailing.