Skimmar Seagull 12 Information, Review, Specs

While the Seagull 12 is the primary sailing variant, it shares its hull and DNA with several sibling models from the Skimmar factory. The most notable sibling is the Seadog, which was frequently utilized for "frostbite" racing on the Eastern Seaboard. Other family members included the smaller 8-foot and 10-foot Skipper dinghies and various "Gull-wing" hull runabouts intended for small outboards. Historical documentation from Classic Boat Library indicates that the company, led by Lincoln H. Clark, utilized hand-laid fiberglass and even experimented with proprietary materials like "Boltaron" (an artificial rubber) in their early years.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Seagull 12 features a fractional sloop rig with a total sail area of approximately 77 square feet, providing a spirited experience for a hull of its size. With a reported displacement of 240 lbs and a beam of 4'9", the boat offers more initial stability than many narrow racing dinghies, making it a predictable platform for novice sailors. The hull design incorporates a slight "gull-wing" or tri-hull influence in the bow sections on some iterations, which assists in keeping the boat dry when moving through light chop.

According to the 1968 Skimmar Catalog, the boat was designed to be sailed safely in winds up to 25 knots, a testament to its "rugged racer" heritage. Tracking is managed by a mahogany or aluminum kick-up rudder and a swing centerboard, which allow the boat to navigate extremely shallow waters with a minimum draft of just a few inches. Owners have noted that while the boat is stable, it requires active weight management to point well to windward; if the hull is allowed to heel too far, the relatively shallow rudder can lose grip, leading to significant leeway.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Skimmar brand holds a significant place in the history of New England coastal sailing culture. The Seagull 12 and its sibling, the Seadog, were staples of the "frostbiting" scene—winter racing series held in protected harbors like Sachem’s Head, Pine Orchard, and Vineyard Haven. At its peak, fleets of over 150 Skimmar-built dinghies were active on Long Island Sound, as documented in regional sailing club archives and period manufacturer literature. The boat’s reputation for durability led to its frequent use as a "club boat" for youth programs throughout the 1960s and 70s.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a vintage Skimmar Seagull 12, buyers should focus on the specific points where these boats show their age:

• Centerboard Trunk Leaks: The joint between the centerboard trunk and the inner hull is a known failure point. Over time, the stress of the centerboard can cause hairline cracks or sealant failure, leading to water ingress between the hull layers.
• Hardware Integrity: Original factory fittings were often made of lightweight aluminum or plastic, which owners frequently describe as "chintzy." Inspect cleats, oarlock sockets, and the mast step for signs of corrosion or "pulled" fasteners. Many restored examples have been upgraded to bronze or stainless steel hardware.
• Mast Flotation: The aluminum spars were originally designed with plugged ends to provide flotation in the event of a capsize. These plugs can fail or rot, allowing the mast to fill with water, which makes righting the boat significantly more difficult.
• Fiberglass Delamination: Given the age of these vessels, check the cockpit floor and the deck for "soft spots." While the hulls were hand-laid and generally over-built, the foam flotation under the seats can sometimes absorb water if the protective shields have been compromised.

Community & Resources

Owners of Skimmar boats typically find support through broader classic fiberglass communities. While there is no longer a formal manufacturer-backed association, technical data and historical brochures are preserved by enthusiasts at the Classic Boat Library and via specialized vintage sailing forums. The "Woodpussy" and "Dyer Dow" owner groups often overlap with Skimmar owners due to the shared history of frostbite racing in the Northeast.

The Verdict

The Skimmar Seagull 12 is a charming, entry-level classic that captures the simplicity of mid-century sailing. It is an ideal choice for those looking for a low-maintenance heritage boat that can be handled solo or with a small child.

Pros:

• Extremely easy to trailer or car-top.
• Durable, thick fiberglass construction.
• Versatile enough to be used as a rowboat or with a small outboard.
• Simple rigging makes it a perfect teaching platform.

Cons:

• Original hardware is often under-specced for heavy use.
• The centerboard trunk is prone to leaks if not properly maintained.
• Limited cockpit space for more than two adults.
• Pointing ability to windward is average compared to modern racing dinghies.