Top Hat
26′ V-bottom launch
Good speed and seakeeping ability with low impact and noise
TOP HAT traces her heritage to the vee bottom boats designed by William. Hand in the early 1900s. Her lines, construction and propulsion have be updated, but the essential virtues remain – seaworthy and seakindly performance, good speeds with modest horsepower, handsome looks and ease of construction.
A 50 HP Honda outboard in a well gives very quiet operation, easy maintenance and good handling in reverse. Also shown is an alternative inboard engine version.
Plans are well detailed, and consist of 8 sheets: outboard profile, lines & offsets, inboard construction profile, constructions sections, building jig, two detail sheets, and inboard diesel construction.
A CD of photos in JPEG format taken during the construction of the prototype is available and will be a help to all builders.
STUDY PLANS: Click here to download free study plans.
TO PURCHASE PLANS: Plans include 8 sheets. A photo CD is also available. To order online using Paypal’s ordering system (which accepts credit cards and eChecks), please select one of the following buttons:
You can also order plans by sending a check or money order to Hylan & Brown Boatbuilders, 10 Frank Day Ln, Brooklin, ME 04616.
FAQ: Many questions are answered in Frequently Asked Questions. Please check there first.
Particulars
| LOA | 26′ 5″ |
| Beam | 7′ 3″ |
| Draft | 15″ motor up |
| Disp. | 3200 lbs (outboard version) |
| Speed | up to 18 kts |
| Trailerable | Yes |
| Hull type | V-bottom chine |
| Construction | Strip plank topsides, double plywood bottom over sawn frames |
| Suitable for | Somewhat protected waters |
| Skill needed | Intermediate |
| Lofting required | Yes |
| Level of detail | Above average |
OTHER REFERENCES: Design review by Robert Stephens in WoodenBoat #168, p. 86.