Flying Tramp Information, Review, Specs

The Flying Tramp emerged during a period of growth for the German builder SUDPLAST, which began manufacturing boats in 1963 and later evolved into BWC Illmensee GmbH. The company, known for its "Flying" series, established a reputation for robust construction and practical designs. Heribert Streuer, the designer of the Flying Tramp, was a key figure in shaping SUDPLAST's identity, having penned many of their iconic "Flying Cruiser" models. The Flying Tramp’s production run from 1970 to 1975 aligns with this era of foundational growth for SUDPLAST.

SUDPLAST's manufacturing approach, applied to boats like the Flying Tramp, emphasized durability and safety. Their vessels typically featured a sturdy round frame and a two-shell construction using GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic), with the cavities between the deck and hull shells foamed for enhanced buoyancy and structural integrity. This method contributed to their renowned robustness and often unsinkable nature, a characteristic likely shared by the Flying Tramp.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its relatively small size, the Flying Tramp is recognized as a light sailboat with good performance capabilities. Its fractional sloop rig contributes to efficient sail handling and responsiveness. The design prioritizes stability, with the Flying Tramp noted for being very stable and stiff, allowing it to stand up well to wind. This characteristic makes it a forgiving boat for sailors of varying experience levels, offering a secure feel on the water. With a hull speed just under 6 knots, it is designed for enjoyable day sailing and coastal cruising rather than high-speed racing, providing a balanced and predictable sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Information specific to the Flying Tramp's interior layout is scarce. However, drawing from the general design philosophy of SUDPLAST and BWC Illmensee's "Flying" series, it can be inferred that the Flying Tramp, despite its compact length overall of 21.98 feet, would have aimed to maximize internal volume. The builder typically focused on providing "roomy cabins that provide full seat height" in their small cruisers. While specific details on berths, galley facilities, or a dedicated head compartment are not widely documented for this model, a boat of this size from this era would likely offer basic V-berth forward, and possibly two settee berths in a main cabin, suitable for overnighting or weekend trips. The interior finish would generally be practical and durable, consistent with the builder's emphasis on family-friendly and low-maintenance vessels.