2008 Landing School Arundel 27

The Arundel 27 is a cold-molded wooden downeast picnic boat built in 2008 by the Landing School in Kennebunkport, Maine. She is the ninth in a series of ten designed by Steve Dalzell and represents a refined approach to small-boat cruising. Power comes from a Volvo Penta D4-225 diesel driving a duo-prop outdrive, with just 165 hours recorded on the engine. The boat will cruise at speeds up to 34 knots and draws only 14½ inches, making her well-suited to gunk-holing in shallow waters.

The cabin layout centers on a forward V-berth with a fully enclosed head to starboard and a compact galley to port with pressurized fresh water. Interior appointments follow Herreshoff tradition, with varnished mahogany trim and drawers complemented by a teak and holly cabin sole. Four screened port lights and a large overhead hatch flood the cabin with natural light, while electric lighting is strategically placed throughout. The cockpit is the social heart of the boat, featuring two Stidd helm seats forward and a wide athwart bench aft. Weather protection is comprehensive: a large windscreen, coach roof with side panels, and a Sunbrella Bimini top with removable Eisenglass side curtains all keep occupants comfortable. A removable mahogany table completes the outdoor living space.

Construction combines a ¾-inch cold-molded plywood bottom with ½-inch Western Red Cedar topsides, the whole structure bonded with WEST SYSTEM epoxy and sheathed with fiberglass for durability. The exterior wears Oyster White Awlgrip with contrasting boot top, finished with high-gloss varnish on mahogany toe rail and eyebrow trim. Teak handrails, a stainless steel bow pulpit and rub rail, and integrated deck cleats provide both safety and character.

Recent maintenance includes repainting the hull and deck with four coats of Awlgrip, refinishing all exterior varnish, replacing the outdrive cylinders, radio, head, and batteries. Annual upkeep has included bottom and outdrive refreshing, zinc replacement, bellows service, and regular engine maintenance. A teak swim platform and boarding ladder enhance boarding comfort.