This is a 25-1/2" long, exact one-eighth scale model of the CLC Northeaster Dory. 

In 2016 CLC purchased a large laser-cutter, and we've spent several years developing scale model kits for popular CLC models. The Northeaster Dory was the first to debut, after we took great pains with the documentation. Along with a detailed step-by-step assembly manual, we've created a how-to video that takes you from start to finish.

This kit is an accurate one-eighth scale rendition of the Northeaster Dory. Construction follows the same sequence as the full-sized version, so much so that you could probably use the 17-footer's instruction manual to build the model. The major difference is that the model requires no fiberglass and epoxy work! Nevertheless, we found that the assembly process was very similar at full and one-eighth scale. Thus it's a great practice run for any of CLC's larger stitch-and-glue kits.

If you're pondering construction of a Northeaster Dory, the model will be a great introduction to the process. If you already have a Northeaster Dory, you'll love having one on the mantel to admire while it's too cold to go sailing!

Construction time is about 10 hours, or a week of evenings. The precision-cut hull is stitched together with copper wire (just like the real boat), and glued together with fast-drying CA glue. Spars and sailcloth are included for the sloop-rigged version, along with a pair of oars.

The 17-foot Northeaster Dory, first introduced by CLC in 2007, has been one of the most popular boat kits of all time. The Northeaster Dory is a straightforward riff on the 19th-century fishing dories found on Massachusetts Bay, especially those from around Nahant and Swampscott, Massachusetts. These dories were much admired because they rowed well, sailed well, and could carry a big payload safely in rough waters. Dories have always been comparatively easy to build. The stitch-and-glue CLC Northeaster Dory of 2007 brought lapstrake dories within reach of beginner and amateur boatbuilders. More than a thousand are afloat around the world.

Many have asked if this 25-1/2" model can be fitted with servos and a radio and sailed by remote control. Answer: No, it's too small. Tiny wind ripples on a pond scale to six-foot waves in the full-sized version, leading quickly to a fatal swamping unless the boat were decked in. Along with a full-length deck the model would need a deep fin keel with a bulb of lead ballast. Instead, this is intended as a display model. It looks dashing on the mantel while your full-sized Northeaster Dory waits out the winter in the garage.