A couple from Olympia came to us looking for a boat to cruise in the Northwest. The cruising would consist of voyages of three months in the Summer and week-long jaunts in the Winter. A cabin would be needed to accommodate two comfortably in the Summer and four for shorter trips. Being fans of the schooner rig and wanting an inside steering station, this pilot house schooner was the result.

The sail plan is well divided with no sail being larger that 185 sq. ft. All the sails are self tending for effortless tacking. The boomkin allows a permanent backstay and a good place to store or tow the dinghy. The cockpit is tee-shaped and self-bailing.

Inside the pilot house there is a settee to port and a hanging locker and space for electronics to the starboard. Stepping down into the main salon, the galley and head are to port. On the starboard side is a large settee that converts to a double berth with a fold-down dinette table and wine rack placed on the central bulkhead. The double berth forward is roomy and comfortable. There is full standing head room throughout the pilothouse and main salon.

Auxiliary power is a 27 hp diesel set in the centerline. The long keel with the cut-away forefoot allows good tracking and makes for quick tacks. With her well-proportioned rig and good lines, Whimbrel cuts a clean wake and turns heads whenever she sails. — Sam Devlin

The Whimbrel is available as a custom build from Devlin Designing Boat Builders.