Above - a Rathlin under construction by Bob Grutzmacher.

Our Rathlin design is not the type of motor yacht that you would normally see these days as a new ‘‘modern’’ design. Most new craft of the motor type to come off the drawing board now, are of the large plastic ‘‘patio door’’ type with maximum space provided in the shortest length possible. I would not criticize these boats - for what they are and the market that they are aimed at, they do a good job - especially when trying to get the most for your money out of marina charges. Rathlin, on the other hand, goes in the opposite direction and for a 20’ motor yacht simply offers you the most basic of accommodation with a wc, small galley and 2 berth dinette and an open wheelhouse with a large aft cockpit. She is every bit traditional 1950’s in style and layout. With simple elegance she would transport you on estuary and coastal trips without fuss, and against today’s motor boats, she would stand out as an example of quality.

The drawings show full details for strip planked construction with computer faired mould shapes along with machinery and fit out details. She could also be made with ply/epoxy methods. LOA 20’4’’ (6.20m); LWL 18’4’’ (5.73m); Beam 7’4’’ (2.24m); Draft 2’4’’ (0.70m); Approx. Displ. 1600 kg (3528 lb); Engine 10-30 hp.

Additional drawings are now available to construct the Rathlin as a motor sailer. The drawings include details to alter the skeg to make it into a ballast keel and details of the spars, tabernacle etc.

Sail Area is 15.89 sq.m (171 sq.ft). and the ballast is 450 lbs (200 kg).

IMPORTANT NOTE—included now, with the standard drawings are the mould shapes for a larger version of the Rathlin hull—the hull depth is increased by 4” (0.10m) and the beam by 6” (0.15m) giving an overall beam of 7’10” (2.39m) and an increase in headroom of 6” (0.15m).