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Putting our biases aside for a moment, if you count the Shellback Dinghies on the dock in Center Harbor, you will find that it easily wins the most popular award, partly because it’s a fun boat to race. She’s fast, seaworthy, and pretty. Isn’t that enough? Her bottom is narrower than the Nutshell Pram, making her tippier but faster. A nice all-around performer, which is easy to build, clean and paint.
| Designer | Joel White |
| Length and Beam | 11’2″ and 4’5″ |
| Weight | 100 lbs. |
| Price | $75 (Plans) |
| Capacity | 2 Adults |
| Versatility | Row and Sail |
| Construction Type | Glued Lapstrake |
| Hull Material | Plywood |
| Rowing | ★★★★★ |
| Sailing | ★★★★ |
| Ease of Towing | ★★★★★ |
| Initial Stability | ★★ |
| Load Carrying Capacity | ★★★ |
| Ease of Maintanence | ★★★★ |
| Affordability | ★★★★ |
| Car-topable/Portability | ★★★★ |
| Ease of Build | ★★★★ |
| Off Center Factor | ★★★★★ |
You can purchase the plans and the kit for the Shellback Dinghy on the WoodenBoat Store website.
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Annie Hill says:
I had a Shellback for several years and she was definitely the best tender I have ever owned. She was a joy to row with four oars and could easily carry four normal adults. Although we usually carried her on deck, she towed extraordinarily well and she was fun to sail. I got rid of the thwart and replaced it with a fore and aft bench. I put a leeboard inside, through the lower strake on the starboard side – the centreboard meant for a wet bum when rowing. I’m used to solid dinghies and didn’t find her tippy. The only drawback is the length. You need a large boat, or one with a flush deck and be prepared to stow her off centre.
I’ve tried a 7′ 6″ Nutshell and didn’t like it. The Shellback is a different animal.
John Simpkins says:
I have been interested in this boat for some time, but was sorry to see a one star for car-topability, which is important for me. Was this just due to weight, or were there other factors? Thanks for this great dinghy comparison series!
Steve Stone says:
Oops. Error in the rating. We will fix that. I put mine on the car all the time. By myself with a trick or two.
John Simpkins says:
Great news! Thanks, Steve.