Fatty Knees Information, Review, Specs

The Fatty Knees dinghy, with a length overall of 9 feet, was produced by Edey & Duff primarily between 2000 and 2009. The design itself, however, has a longer lineage, originating from the board of Lyle Hess, a naval architect best known for his robust offshore cruising designs like the Bristol Channel Cutter. Hess designed the Fatty Knees specifically to meet the demanding requirements of world cruisers Lin and Larry Pardey, who needed a dinghy capable of carrying significant cargo, rowing easily, being fun to sail, and compact enough to stow aboard their larger vessel.

Edey & Duff, known for bringing classic wooden designs into the fiberglass era, meticulously crafted the Fatty Knees with a hand-laid lapstrake fiberglass hull. This construction method was chosen not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its exceptional strength and durability, reflecting the builder's commitment to quality even in smaller craft. The dinghy was offered in various lengths, including 7-foot, 8-foot, and 9-foot models, to cater to diverse needs and stowage constraints.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Fatty Knees, rigged as a cat boat with a sail area of 50 square feet, is known for its surprising sailing capabilities for a dinghy of its size. Its design incorporates a daggerboard, allowing for a minimum draft of just 0.16 feet when retracted, perfect for shallow water access, and a maximum draft of 3.25 feet when deployed for sailing performance. With a beam of 4.25 feet, it presents a "chunky" yet stable profile.

Anecdotal reports highlight its ease of handling, describing it as "lively enough in light air" and tracking exceptionally well due to a built-in 7-inch deep skeg. While some sailors note it can be "a bit tender," it is generally considered fun to sail and highly capable under oar or outboard power. The unstayed cat rig contributes to a clear, uncluttered interior, further enhancing its usability. The handmade teak rudder and daggerboard underscore the quality of its components.

Accommodations and Layout

As a compact dinghy, the Fatty Knees is designed for utility and versatility rather than elaborate accommodations. Despite its small size, it is praised for offering "plenty of room" inside for its intended purpose. The interior layout is straightforward, prioritizing open space for rowing, sailing, or transporting gear. A key feature is the easily removable seats, which allows for maximum flexibility when sailing or for convenient storage, such as stowing the dinghy upside down over a deck hatch on a larger vessel. The hull's interior often features a cream paint finish, complementing its classic aesthetic.

Owner's Perspectives

The Fatty Knees has garnered a "cult following" among owners, largely due to its smart and robust design. Owners consistently praise its exceptional strength, stability, and remarkable versatility across various uses, including as a sailing dinghy, a reliable tender, and a capable rowing boat. Many appreciate its ability to carry significant cargo and row efficiently.

While generally lauded, some owners have noted that the flotation in the seats can be a consideration if one intends to use an external flotation collar. However, this minor point is often outweighed by the dinghy's overall praised qualities, including its robust fiberglass construction and its faithful adherence to Lyle Hess's original design principles. The enduring appeal of the Fatty Knees is evident in its continued desirability on the used market and its reputation as a highly functional and durable small boat.