The Duckling is a 9 foot long tender which was designed by Uffa Fox, probably as a tender for the Fairey Atalanta sailing cruiser. The Duckling's rounded bow meant that it fitted over the similar shaped Atalanta coachroof. Two initial versions were envisaged; a rowing option with two oarlock positions and a sailing version with dagger board and transom hung rudder. Various rigs were used. The rowing version could sport a 2-3HP outboard motor bolted to the transom. Approximately 2000 Ducklings were built. The hull number may usually be found cut into the transom just below the transom seat. Vital Statistics: (From Peter Twiss's card index notes). Hull hot moulded from three layers of Agba to approximately 5/16" thick. Rowing Version Length: 9' 0" Beam: 4' 2" Draught: 0' 8" Depth Fwd: 18" Depth Aft: 14" All Up Weight with Oars 110lb NB: Directional stability on tow is exceptional even at very high speeds. Sailing Version (Vertical Gunter Rig) Sail Area Mainsail: 40 sq. ft. Opt foresail: 14 sq ft. Draught (daggerboard down) 2' 6" Spars 8' 6" to stow in boat All up weight ex crew 135lb An inboard version of the Duckling was built, utiliizing a 4HP J.A.P. air-cooled motor and shaft drive. This was named the Gosling. The Uffa Fox website (care of Tony Dixon) sells plans for the Duckling. click here:- to view and purchase a set. There are a number of Ducklings owned by club members, and we have photos from quite a few other owners. If you know of, or own a Duckling, please locate the hull number and let me know the information and I'll add your entry to the table below. Starting with my Wife's soon to be completed acquisition No. 164 from my good friend Nick Dunn. Note that the Sail No. will not necessarily match the Hull number. Fairey built hulls in batches and then completed them later to order. (You'll see from the slideshow above that there were two other small craft in the range. The Dinky at 6 foot long (2m), with a more traditional stem is often seen slung from Davits at the stern of a Fairey Motorboat and the Pixie is a two part car-top-able open-decked canoe.)
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