Skipper 14 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Skipper 14 emerged from the drawing board of Peter Milne, a designer known for creating accessible and well-regarded recreational boats. Production began in 1967 at Richmond Marine Ltd., a company founded by David Thorpe in 1965. Richmond Marine, under Thorpe's leadership, was instrumental in building smaller, accessible sailing craft, a philosophy that perfectly aligned with the Skipper 14's design brief. The builder's ethos at the time leaned towards modern production techniques, utilizing fiberglass construction for durability and ease of maintenance, reflecting a broader industry shift away from traditional wood. The Skipper 14 was specifically designed to be a multi-purpose dinghy, featuring a sliding gunter rig that could be sailed with or without a jib, enhancing its adaptability for various sailing conditions or preferences. Its design also thoughtfully included the capacity to accept a 6hp outboard motor, further cementing its role as a versatile family boat. While records indicate a production start in 1967, the precise end year for its production is not specified, suggesting a consistent presence in the market for some time. The Skipper 14 is part of a series of Skipper dinghies, which also included the Skipper 12 and Skipper 17.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While the Skipper 14 is not typically analyzed with performance ratios due to its size, its sailing characteristics are a key aspect of its appeal. Designed to "sail reasonably well," the Skipper 14 offers a straightforward and enjoyable experience on the water. Owners and reviewers frequently describe it as a superb multi-purpose dinghy, capable of handling light to medium duty conditions. Its monohull design and daggerboard keel contribute to its stability and responsiveness, making it a good choice for recreational sailing. Anecdotal reports suggest that while it sails well, like many smaller dinghies, it can be prone to taking on water in certain conditions, a common characteristic owners learn to manage. Despite this, sailors appreciate its fantastic performance for its class, with some even venturing into coastal waters. The original sail area of 83 sq ft, with the main accounting for 70.5 sq ft, provides ample power for spirited sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 13-foot dinghy, the Skipper 14’s "accommodations" are primarily focused on a functional and comfortable cockpit rather than an enclosed cabin. Peter Milne's design incorporated a "very complex deck molding for that period," featuring "lots of fancy molded wells and seats." This innovative layout aimed to maximize utility and comfort within its compact footprint, providing dedicated seating areas for family use. The fiberglass hull and deck construction meant a relatively low-maintenance finish, ideal for a boat intended for frequent use and trailering. While storage is limited on such a small craft, the molded design likely included some integrated compartments or areas for gear. Owners have noted the presence of a sealable stern hatch, offering some secure storage. The open-cockpit design ensures excellent ventilation, crucial for an enjoyable day on the water.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Skipper 14 generally praise its versatility and family-friendly nature. It is consistently viewed as a capable multi-purpose boat, suitable for both sailing and use with an outboard motor. Many appreciate its solid construction for a boat of its vintage, though some acknowledge that older models may require attention to issues like cracking in deck molding around the daggerboard or potential water ingress into cavities. The Skipper 14 is sometimes considered "not over robust" and may need reinforcement for heavier use. Despite these minor challenges, owners often speak fondly of its sailing characteristics and its ability to introduce many to the joys of the water. The vibrant community of Skipper 14 owners often shares tips and modifications, such as re-rigging with different sail configurations to enhance performance or adapting the internal layout for specific needs. Its enduring appeal lies in its straightforward design and the enjoyment it continues to provide to those who own and sail it.