During the 1930's a regulation was passed in Maine stating that lobster pots in certain bays could only be harvested from rowing or sailing boats, but that outboard motors could be used to cross rough water to get to the bays. This regulation led to the development of a boat that would attain planing speed at 20 mph under outboard power, but still retain its abilities as a rowing and sailing work boat. The aggressive dory bow slices through chop and the flat bottom lifts the boat onto a plane. When the weight of the motor is removed from the transom, the rounded shape slips easily through the water. The modern boater will find this to be a versatile, roomy craft to row single or double, as a family day-sailer, or fast workboat.

The Lobster Boat is our midsized family sailboat. With its wide side seats, it is more comfortable for sailing than the Whitehall 14' or the Swampscott Dory. The Lobster Boat is a forgiving, powerful sail boat. The flat dory-style bottom allows it to be pulled up on the beach to step ashore with dry feet, and she can be launched with knee boots. The covered bow has room for a picnic basket to sit out of the weather. You can also tuck the oars up out of the way while sailing or motoring.

The Lobster Boat is an excellent fishing boat, as a small motor will get you out to that hot spot fast, yet she rows easily for a slow troll. The wide, flat bottom makes casting a fly or netting that trophy fish easy. There is plenty of room for you, your buddy, the cooler for the fish, a cooler for lunch, your fishing gear, and a couple of crab or lobster pots.

You will be hard pressed to find a more versatile and fun boat that planes with a small motor yet rows and sails so nicely.