Customisations and Layout

Merisirri has certain additions to and deviations from the plans. Here is a summary of the major ones. As the building project is underway this list is likely to change. “Mk2” refers to SCAMP Mk II revision published in late 2017.

Footwell. (Mk2) SCAMP seats are 250 mm (10 inch) up from the floor level. When sailing long distances it’s comfortable if you can sit your legs straight, especially if you are tall. Merisirri has a footwell between BH5 and BH6. The footwell has a divider which reduces power of the free surface effect and also strengthens the footwell bottom.

Wider seat tops. (Mk2) The seats are 25 mm wider to improve sitting comfort.

Lazarette. At aft of the cockpit there is a lazarette which not only provides more storage space but also makes it possible to sit further back. It also decreases a bit the amount of water in the cockpit after swamping or capsize recovery.

Tiller tamer. When sailing single-handed there are moments when you want to get your hands free e.g. to row or to raise the sails. Merisirri has a simple adjustable tiller tamer.

Narrower cuddy doorway. (Mk2) This modification of BH4 was introduced in Southern Cross. It have been recommended for better safety and convenience. Wider bulkhead walls also provide a good place for a bulkhead-mounted compass.

Compass. Even if we are living the golden age of satellite navigation every cruising boat should have a traditional compass for navigation. Merisirri has one too on bulkhead 3.

Navigation lights. At bow there is a 225° red/green bow light and at stern a 135° white stern light. They are needed if the destination is reached before sunset.

Brass strips for centerboard, rudder and skegs. When a dinghy hits rocks the centerboard and rudder get damaged easily. To protect paint and plywood from damage there are brass strips attached to the front edges of the blades.

Stirrups. Actually this is not a customization but still mentioned here because of its significant effect on safety. When the boat is righted after a capsize getting over the relatively high gunwale can be tricky. The stirrups are a simple solution to that challenge.

Cockpit tent. What would dinghy cruising be without an option to overnight in the boat? In SCAMP cockpit there is space for one person to sleep on the floor or for two persons on an additional platform. Merisirri has a woolen tent for the cockpit.

Mast support. When trailering there are no proper place for the mast. To overcome this shortcoming Merisirri has removable supports for the mast. The forward support is placed into the mastbox and the backward support suspended by rudder hinges.

Boat’s layout plan can be seen below. The proportions are not accurate. The plan will be translated to English later.