“Sine Cera” may be a “Cheeky” name for this design. The hull-form has been bouncing around in my head for ages.

About a decade ago I had a subtle nudge from a friend (to whom I attribute the “Sine Cera” name) and I attempted to produce a rowing skiff design worthy of the name. There were plenty of hand drawn sketches, and more than one fully developed design. But sometimes designs can be like a moustache – everytime you take another look, you want to change things. More times than I care to admit, I binned the file and started over. Greater focus on the use case, and the realization that these boats are more likely to be built as DIY projects,provided the incentive to deliver the design as it is today.

The original use case called for a skiff to permit travel to and from water access property on a lake/pond where power craft are prohibited – or the owner wants to “Keep it simple”. It is small enough to be managed by one person, but large enough for more, or for groceries or other provisions. 

The skiff is not symmetrical about midships. As drawn, the bow is slightly higher than the stern. In my mind it looks better this way, This is also reflected in the lines which show a slightly finer sections aft than fwd.  A single set of rowlocks are positioned to permit variable loading conditions. A lone Rower can sit at the midships thwart facing aft, or a passenger can sit at the bow and the rower can sit facing them on the aft thwart while still maintaining good trim and reasonable rowing efficiency. 

As depicted, there are two versions; a Lapstrake version, and a strip built version (woodstrip epoxy). Both versions are shown with a painted hull and varnished sheer strake which sets off the painted hull nicely. it would be possible to complete the strip built version without a lapped sheerstrake, and both versions could be finished bright – builder’s choice. 

So; does it live up to the “Sine Cera” name?

That may well be up to brilliant creative builders who take up the challenge. 

Particulars

Length……….18’6″

Beam………….44″

Hull Depth(Midships)……….15″

Hull Weight (approx)……….140-160 lbs Lapstrake Version

Weight to Immerse……….124 lb/in

Moment to Trim……….92 lb-ft/in