H. Mortensen
June 2010
Ren Tollman's Alaskan Skiff 18' - 20'
The designs for these skiffs come in a range of sizes from 18 feet to 24 feet in length overall. Because of the large range in lengths, weights predictably range widely from a manageable "less than 700 lbs" to nearly a ton. The smallest, or "Standard" model is probably the one most folks will build and is easy to launch and store. She boasts a 7-foot beam with the deadrise changing from an efficient 8 degrees at the transom, to a wave-splitting 14 degrees amidships.
These skiffs are put together with standard Alaskan stoutness, utilizing two hefty stringers that run from the transom to a point where they diminish into the curve of the bow flair. These glu-lam stringers form the main structural components and produce a strong, stiff hull. They also provide convenient, strong landings for the cockpit sole, thwarts and other bits needed in such craft. Full building details and ample design options are found in Mr. Tolman's comprehensive book: Tolman Alaskan Skiffs: http://www.alaska.net/~tolmanskiffs/.
All of the designs are centered on a strong sheer line accentuated by longitudinal rub strakes and spray rails. The ample bow flair shows us these boats will not easily take a boarding wave (at least while underway). The stringer system and sheer define the character of these boats, with so many thwart, steering and cabin options to choose from. For Pacific Northwest use, a small cuddy with a hard-topped and wind-shielded helm would make a nicely equipped camp-cruiser or stalwart fishing machine. Soft-sided enclosure would keep out the wind and cold on all but the worst winter weather days.
Power options for a cabin on the Standard would be best on the higher end of the recommended 40-70 horsepower range. Four-stoke outboard power is ideal to this type of dependable boat, but note the weight cautions in the book.
Once again we have a salty, capable craft that exceeds all other production models in performance, ease of use, aesthetics and charm (but sadly, not availability). Demand for this boat would be high if she were more widely known. Of course, the irrational fear of wood is another puzzling hurdle to the acceptance of superior plywood boats.
