A Scow Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the A Scow can be traced back to a prototype that emerged in 1896, leading to its formal design by John O. Johnson and first construction in 1901. Johnson, recognized as a leading designer of racing sailboats for inland lakes, saw his company, Johnson Boat Works, in full production by 1904, solidifying the scow's place in sailing history. While the A Scow has undergone a "long evolutionary path," it has maintained its status as a nominally one-design class Notes]. Today, builders like Melges Performance Sailboats continue to produce the A Scow, incorporating modern rigging and gear into its construction. Melges, with a heritage stretching back to 1945, has a deep-rooted commitment to high-performance and one-design sailing, which is evident in their continued development of the scow tradition. The A Scow's construction typically utilizes fiberglass and wood composite materials, and its distinctive scow hull features a centerboard.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The A Scow is celebrated for its unparalleled speed and performance within one-design sailing, often described as the fastest and largest of the Melges Scow family. With a light displacement of 1,850 lbs for its 38-foot length and a substantial reported sail area of 550 sq ft for its main and jib, augmented by a 1,200 sq ft spinnaker, the A Scow is engineered for rapid acceleration and exhilarating speeds. Its design requires an active crew of six to seven to manage its power and maintain optimal performance. Scows are generally known for maximizing speed while offering remarkable stability due to their wide, flat bottom, though high-performance scow sailors emphasize sailing the boat flat, as excessive heel can impede speed. The A Scow typically employs twin centerboards, a common feature in scows that contributes to its handling and ability to manage varying wind conditions and allows for adjustable lateral resistance.

Accommodations and Layout

As a dedicated high-performance racing machine, the A Scow prioritizes speed and crew efficiency over creature comforts, meaning it offers a minimalist interior. Its design is focused entirely on the demands of racing, with the layout centered around a large, open cockpit to accommodate the six to seven crew members required for optimal performance and sail handling. There are no significant living accommodations or dedicated interior spaces for an overnight stay; the limited internal volume is primarily utilized for structural components and sail storage. This design choice underscores its purpose as a pure racer, devoid of the amenities found on cruising sailboats.