K255 - 17 Ft. Dion Swampscott Sailing Dory (1990) Custom Built Boat

Specification: Item K255 - 204L x 54W x 0H Inches (518.2L x 137.2W x 0H Cm)

Note: This is a special made to order item, delivery usually take 30-90 days.
Custom features such as name plate or different paint schemes are available for additional charges. Please contact us for details.

Price: $ 20,250.00

Description:

The Swampscott Sailing Dory is a historic American sailboat, originally developed for beach-launched fishing along the Massachusetts coast. Its long, narrow hull and sharp bow provide exceptional sailing/rowing efficiency, while maintaining stability and seaworthiness in both surf and calm waters.

Our workshop builds each Swampscott Dory by hand using Western Red Cedar, Mahogany, Teak, and US -made Hexcel fiberglass with System Three marine spar varnish. Constructed with traditional plank-on-frame methods, each boat is a unique creation, with a lead time of 4–5 months. Customizations are available for hull size, wood type, finish, thwarts, oarlocks, and personalized markings to meet the owner’s preferences.

The Swampscott sailing Dory stands out for its elegant, slender lines, smooth varnished finish, and precise handcrafted details. Lightweight yet sturdy, it glides effortlessly across the water while honoring the heritage of one of America’s most iconic coastal workboats. Every handcrafted plank, fitting, and detail reflects the artistry and functionality that have made the Swampscott Dory a classic for generations.

Specifications:

Main Propulsion: Sail/Oars
Sail Rig: Cat
Hull Material: Traditional Wood
Design/Racing Class: Swampscott Dory
Year Built: 1990
Designer: Fred Dion
Length on Deck: 17' (5.18 meters)
Length Overall: 17' (5.18 meters)
Load Waterline Length: 12' (3.66 meters)
Beam: 4'6" (1.37 meters)
Draft: 10" (0.25 meters)
Draft - Board Down (if centerboard): 3'2" (0.97 meters)
Engine/Power: Oars/Sails

Every wooden boat crafted by us is built from classic wooden boat plans, with full credit given to the original designers. For each custom commission, we acquire the appropriate plans and construct the boat to order—offering both full-size vessels and finely detailed scale models.

Contact us to bring your Swampscott Rowing Dory to life!

History:

he Swampscott Rowing Dory is a classic American coastal rowboat that originated in the early 19th century along the Massachusetts coastline. Designed specifically for beach-launched fishing, its long, narrow hull and sharp bow allowed fishermen to navigate surf and shallow waters with ease. Lightweight yet sturdy, the design made it possible to transport the boat over sandbars and launch directly from the shore, providing practical access to the Atlantic’s challenging coastal conditions.

Renowned for its efficiency and seaworthiness, the Swampscott Dory quickly became a staple for commercial and subsistence fishermen. Its design emphasized speed, stability, and simplicity, enabling a single rower to handle the boat effectively even in rough surf. Over time, the dory became a trusted vessel for both work and recreation, valued for its durability and reliable performance in coastal waters