The story of Flying Scot, Inc. begins with its visionary founder, Gordon K. "Sandy" Douglass. Douglass was not merely a boat builder; he was one of the most prolific and celebrated small-boat racers of his era, an internationally known racing champion. His profound understanding of sailing dynamics and competitive spirit drove his designs. In 1939, Douglass pioneered the innovative use of molded plywood in boat construction, showcasing his early commitment to advanced building techniques. With a wealth of experience gained over forty years in sailing and marine construction, Sandy Douglass established the Gordon Douglass Boat Company, Inc. in 1957. His original motivation was to create a boat that embodied speed and excellent performance, yet was also comfortable, stable, and easy for families to sail.
The company's inaugural and most iconic boat, the Flying Scot, was designed in 1957 and first built in 1958. This 19-foot centerboard sloop was conceived to be a versatile vessel, equally adept at competitive racing and leisurely family day sailing. Crafted from fiberglass, the Flying Scot represented a forward-thinking approach to boat construction, offering durability and low maintenance from the outset.
History and Evolution
From its founding, Gordon Douglass Boat Company, Inc., which later became Flying Scot, Inc., embarked on a journey of consistent boat production centered around its successful one-design. The transition to fiberglass construction was a pivotal moment, providing the robustness and ease of maintenance that would become hallmarks of the Flying Scot. While the company itself has changed hands over the years, the commitment to the original design and quality has remained steadfast. The Flying Scot design has been previously built by other manufacturers such as Tanzer Industries, Douglass & McLeod, Customflex, and Lofland Sail-craft, but today, Flying Scot, Inc. in Deer Park, Maryland, stands as the exclusive builder.
Design Philosophy and Identity
The Flying Scot holds a distinguished reputation in the sailing world as a robust, forgiving, and versatile one-design sailboat. It is celebrated for its blend of performance and family-friendly characteristics. Naval architect Richard Sherwood, in a 1994 review, described the Flying Scot as a "big, fast centerboard boat" with "unusual reverse sheer" and "good stability" due to its hard bilges and slightly tunneled hull. Its design emphasizes a straightforward approach, with class rules actively discouraging complexity. This philosophy means that success in a Flying Scot race relies heavily on tactics and sailing skill rather than intricate boat tuning, making it an approachable yet challenging boat for sailors of all levels. Joni Palmer, manager of the US Naval Academy's sailing program, noted, "It's not a high-performance boat, so anybody can get into the boat. You can't tweak everything. It's hard to gain an edge. You have to concentrate on tactics and speed. It's just a solid boat. But these boats do plane!"
Iconic Models and Legacy
Undoubtedly, the Flying Scot itself is the sole and utterly iconic model produced by the company. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Sandy Douglass's masterful design. As of 2020, over 5,300 Flying Scots had been completed, though other sources indicate production numbers reaching over 6,200 boats. The boat's specifications include a length overall (LOA) of 19.00 feet (5.79 meters), a beam of 6.75 feet (2.06 meters), and a displacement of 850 lbs (386 kg). Its centerboard design allows for a draft of 4.00 ft (1.22 m) when extended and just 8 inches (20 cm) when retracted, facilitating easy beaching or trailering.
The Flying Scot's legacy is profoundly reinforced by the highly active Flying Scot Sailing Association (FSSA). This class association plays a crucial role in maintaining the boat's strict one-design principles, ensuring fair racing and preserving the boat's character. By 2020, the FSSA boasted 118 fleets racing the boat across various locations. The association organizes numerous regattas and championships, fostering a strong sense of community among owners.
The Builder Today
Flying Scot, Inc. continues its operations from its long-standing location at 157 Cemetery Street, Deer Park, Maryland. The company remains dedicated to building new Flying Scots and providing comprehensive support, including parts and repair services, for its extensive fleet worldwide. Led by a dedicated team that includes individuals like Tyler and Harry Carpenter (whose family roots are tied to sailing on Deep Creek Lake, MD), Flying Scot, Inc. maintains its commitment to quality and customer service.
Today's Flying Scot boats appeal to a wide spectrum of sailors, from those seeking a stable and comfortable day sailer for family outings to competitive racers who thrive on strategic, level-playing-field competition. The ownership experience is characterized by the boat's ease of sailing, storage, rigging, and transport. Moreover, the vibrant and welcoming Flying Scot Sailing Association ensures a strong owner community, providing ample opportunities for racing, social events, and shared passion for this timeless design. Flying Scot, Inc. is not just a boat builder; it's a steward of a rich sailing tradition, ensuring that the joy of sailing remains accessible and engaging for generations to come.