Fleet-O-Wing Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Fleet-O-Wing begins in 1939, when Pert Lowell Co. commenced its production. The builder, with a legacy tracing back to the 1700s, has consistently upheld a commitment to traditional methods, particularly in wooden boat construction, at its Lane's End location in Newbury, Massachusetts. Pert Lowell Co. is celebrated for its dedication to quality and a focus on enduring designs, a philosophy that undoubtedly influenced the construction of the Fleet-O-Wing. While not as prolifically produced as their iconic Town Class sailboat, the Fleet-O-Wing exemplifies the builder's ethos of crafting seaworthy vessels using time-honored techniques. Only 15 units of this model were built, making it a relatively rare classic. Specific design philosophies from Sparkman & Stephens or K. Aage Nielsen for the Fleet-O-Wing itself are not widely detailed, but their involvement typically signifies a focus on performance, balance, and seaworthiness within the vessel's intended class.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Measuring 17.75 feet in length overall with a waterline of 14.5 feet, the Fleet-O-Wing is a sprightly performer for its size. It features a fractional sloop rig, a fin keel, and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration chosen for both efficiency and control. With a displacement of 1,200 pounds and 480 pounds of lead ballast, the boat is designed to be responsive yet stable. Its theoretical hull speed is approximately 5.1 knots, suggesting it can achieve respectable speeds in favorable conditions. The combination of a fin keel and skeg-hung rudder would likely contribute to agile handling and a good turning radius, making it an enjoyable boat for daysailing and racing in smaller venues. While specific owner anecdotes about its handling are not readily available, the pedigree of its designers strongly implies a well-balanced and capable small sailboat.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact length of under 18 feet, the Fleet-O-Wing is primarily designed as a daysailer, with any interior accommodations being quite rudimentary. Information regarding its interior layout, finish quality, or specific amenities is not widely documented. It is likely that the design prioritizes a functional cockpit for sailing and, at most, a very basic cabin space for minimal shelter or dry storage, rather than extensive cruising amenities. Standing headroom would not be expected in a boat of this size. Potential owners would anticipate a simple, open interior typical of classic small boats from its era, focusing on the joy of sailing rather than onboard living.