Description:
The Stir Ven 19ft open is a versatile classic day sailer that blends Breton design heritage with open cockpit freedom. With its graceful sheerline balanced proportions and purposeful hull form it reflects the spirit of traditional coastal craft while offering a practical layout for modern recreational sailing. The open configuration enhances space movement and visibility creating a direct and engaging sailing experience.
Our workshop builds the Stir Ven 19ft open using carefully selected marine timbers including Western Red Cedar Mahogany and Teak reinforced where required with U.S. made Hexcel fiberglass and protected with System Three marine spar varnish. Each vessel is hand crafted using traditional plank on frame construction ensuring structural strength authentic character and refined detailing throughout. The hull geometry is optimized for steady initial stability efficient waterline length and responsive sail handling in varying wind conditions. Typical build time ranges from 4 to 6 months depending on specification and finishing level.
Customization possibilities allow owners to define the personality of their vessel. Choices include wood species deck layout cockpit seating arrangement rig configuration hardware finish color tone and onboard storage solutions creating a boat tailored to specific waters and sailing style.
Specifications
- Hull length / waterline: 18.7/16.63 ft
- Breadth / waterline: 6.82 / 5.91 ft
- Draught: 0.82 / 3.61 ft
- Light weight / ballast: 1,179.47 / 264.55 lbs
- Sail area: 229.27 ft2
- Outboard motor: 6 hp
- Attention: this boat may be built only with a numerically cut plywood kit
Performance and Use
The Stir Ven 19 open is designed for coastal day sailing lake cruising and classic boat gatherings. Under sail it offers predictable handling progressive heel response and efficient light wind performance. The open cockpit encourages social sailing while maintaining safe ergonomic helm positioning. Whether used for family outings relaxed regattas or quiet coastal exploration it delivers a harmonious balance between tradition comfort and dependable performance.
This wooden boat crafted by us is built from Vivierboats, with full credit given to the original designers where applicable. For each custom commission we obtain the appropriate drawings and construct the vessel to order offering both full size boats and finely detailed scale models.
Contact us to discuss configuration options build scheduling and technical details for your Stir Ven 19 open.
History:
The Stir Ven 19 Open takes its name from the Breton words meaning white river, reflecting the strong maritime identity of Brittany. For centuries, small open boats were essential along the region's rivers and coastline, serving fishermen, traders, and families who depended on the sea. These craft were designed for versatility, stability, and easy handling in tidal waters and sheltered bays.
The Stir Ven 19 Open draws inspiration from those traditional working boats, combining balanced hull lines with a spacious open layout suited for day cruising and coastal exploration. As boating evolved from necessity to recreation, such designs retained their classic character while adapting to modern expectations.
Today, the Stir Ven 19 Open continues this legacy, honoring Breton craftsmanship and the enduring connection between people and the water.