Sailing Performance & Handling
The Evan's 16 is characterized by its exceptional stability and shallow-draft versatility. Designed primarily as a centerboarder, the boat excels in "gunkholing"—the practice of navigating shallow creeks and estuaries where deeper-draft keelboats cannot venture. The hull form, influenced by the classic Chesapeake skiff, features a relatively flat run aft, which allows it to plane under the right conditions, though it is most at home as a displacement cruiser.
The sail plan is typically a simple marconi sloop rig, though some custom versions were outfitted with gaff rigs to honor traditional aesthetics. Given its generous beam, the boat does not require aggressive hiking to stay upright in a moderate breeze, making it a "forgiving" sail. However, the weight of the hand-laid fiberglass hull means that while it carries momentum well through a chop, it may feel sluggish in light airs compared to lighter, performance-oriented dinghies like the Vanguard 15 or Laser. Owners often report that the boat tracks well due to the depth of the centerboard, though it can exhibit a fair amount of weather helm if the mainsail is over-trimmed in gusts.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
As the Evan's 16 was often produced as a dual-purpose hull (both as a power skiff and a sailboat), buyers should pay close attention to the sailing-specific hardware and conversions.
- Centerboard Trunk: The most critical inspection point is the centerboard trunk. Over time, the pivot bolt can wear the fiberglass, leading to leaks or "slop" in the board. Check for stress cracks around the base of the trunk where it meets the hull.
- Transom Core: While Evans Boats are known for their strength, older models used wood reinforcement in the transom. If the boat was ever fitted with an outboard motor larger than the recommended 5hp, the transom should be checked for "flex" or moisture intrusion.
- Mast Step: Because the boat is an open-cockpit design, rainwater can collect if not properly drained. Inspect the mast step for signs of corrosion or compression if the boat has been stored outside without a cover.
- Gelcoat Crazing: Due to the rigidity of the heavy laminate, older hulls may exhibit spiderweb-like crazing in the gelcoat, particularly around the cleats and the shroud chainplates. While usually aesthetic, deep cracks may indicate past collisions or over-tensioned rigging.
Community & Resources
The primary resource for technical data and historical context is Evans Boats, which remains an active family-owned business in Crisfield, Maryland. While they focus largely on custom commercial and power vessels today, they maintain a record of their heritage models. Local sailing clubs in the Mid-Atlantic region, particularly those focused on "Chesapeake Bay Skiffs," often include Evan's 16 owners in their wooden and classic fiberglass boat events.
The Verdict
The Evan's 16 is a "tank" of a daysailer, offering a level of durability and stability rarely found in modern 16-foot boats. It is an ideal choice for sailors who prioritize safety and the ability to explore shallow coastal waters over outright speed.
Pros:
- Extremely stable and forgiving for beginners or families.
- Shallow draft with a retractable centerboard is perfect for beaching and coastal exploration.
- Heavy-duty construction ensures the hull can withstand decades of use.
- Cross-functional design allows it to serve as an excellent rowing or power skiff.
Cons:
- Heavier than contemporary racing dinghies, making it more difficult to hand-launch from a beach.
- Limited performance in light wind conditions due to its displacement.
- Spars and rigging are often utilitarian rather than high-performance.
