Flying Tramp Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Flying Tramp is defined by its versatility as a centerboarder. With a draft that can be reduced to approximately 0.20 meters, it is an exceptional vessel for "beachcloth" cruising and navigating shallow estuaries. When the centerboard is fully extended to roughly 1.10 meters, the boat exhibits stable tracking and a respectable ability to point upwind, though it is not a dedicated racing machine.

The sail plan, typically a masthead sloop with roughly 14 to 16 square meters of sail area, provides sufficient power to move the 450-kilogram hull in light airs. Because the boat features a round-bilge hull form, it remains relatively stiff in moderate breezes, though it lacks the heavy keel of its "keel-centerboard" siblings, requiring active weight management from the crew in gusts. Handling is generally described as forgiving; the boat is well-balanced with a slight tendency toward weather helm, providing the helmsperson with tactile feedback. According to historical technical descriptions from the manufacturer, the hull's foamed-core construction not only ensures buoyancy but also dampens vibration and noise, leading to a smoother feel through the water than many hollow-core GRP boats of the same era.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a boat of approximately 5.4 meters (17.7 feet), the Flying Tramp maximizes its internal volume through a clever use of the "two-shell" construction method. The interior offers what the builder calls "full seat height," allowing four adults to sit comfortably around the interior table without hunching—a rare feat for a boat of this length. The cabin typically features two full-length berths in a V-configuration, which can be extended into a larger sleeping platform for two adults and a small child.

The Tramp was built alongside several siblings that utilized similar design language but different hull configurations. While the Tramp focused on the centerboard cruising niche, the Flying Cruiser B and Flying Cruiser S offered slightly different cockpit-to-cabin ratios. The Tramp is often distinguished from the Cruiser B by its more pronounced emphasis on interior storage and a slightly wider beam at the waterline, which improves initial stability for families. The woodwork inside is typically functional, utilizing mahogany or teak trim against the white GRP liner, which is easy to maintain but can feel utilitarian compared to modern luxury pocket cruisers.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Flying Tramp on the used market, the primary concern is the integrity of the sandwich construction. BWC and SUDPLAST used a polyurethane foam between the hull shells for buoyancy. While this makes the boat "unsinkable," if the GRP skin has been breached or if deck fittings were not properly bedded, the foam can absorb water over decades. This significantly increases the boat's displacement and can lead to delamination. Buyers should check for "soft spots" on the deck and, if possible, weigh the boat to see if it exceeds its factory weight of approximately 450kg.

The centerboard trunk is another critical inspection point. Because it is a centerboard boat, the pivot pin and the lifting tackle (cable and winch) are subject to wear and corrosion. Any signs of cracking around the base of the trunk inside the cabin should be viewed as a structural warning sign. Additionally, the original window seals on models from the 1970s are prone to UV degradation and leaking; while these are replaceable, they often require custom-cut gaskets. Finally, inspect the rudder head; some owners have reported stress cracks in the aluminum castings on older SUDPLAST models after years of heavy-weather use.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Flying Tramp and its siblings are supported by a legacy of German craftsmanship that continues through the original yard, BWC Illmensee. The builder still provides support and parts for many of the "Flying" series boats, a rarity for vessels of this vintage. While there is no single-model international association, the boats are a staple of the German "Segeln" forums and local lake-sailing clubs across Central Europe, where technical knowledge regarding Streuer’s designs is widely shared.

The Verdict

The Flying Tramp is a robust, honest weekender that excels on inland waterways where trailerability and shallow draft are paramount.

Pros:

• Safety: The unsinkable, foamed-hull design provides significant peace of mind for family sailors.
• Internal Volume: Exceptional headroom and seating for a boat under 18 feet.
• Easy Logistics: Light weight and a simple mast-stepping arrangement make it an ideal "garage-stored" sailboat.

Cons:

• Weight Sensitivity: If the foam core has absorbed water, the boat loses its performance and becomes difficult to trailer.
• Simplicity: The basic rig and fittings may feel underwhelming for sailors used to modern, high-performance hardware.
• Aging Hardware: Original SUDPLAST-era aluminum and plastic fittings may require upgrading for reliable coastal use.