First Mate

The First Mate is a 15′ open sail-and-oar boat by Ross Lillistone, developed as a versatile small cruiser for solo or two-person outings. Adapted from his earlier Phoenix III, the design retains that boat’s interior layout and rig options but shifts to stitch-and-glue construction for simpler, faster amateur building. The hull is slender for efficient rowing and has sufficient volume and stability for coastal day sailing and overnight micro-cruising. Built-in flotation compartments fore and aft contribute substantial reserve buoyancy, and the hull’s fine entry and moderate lines help maintain composure in wind and chop.

Designed for easy trailering and quick solo rigging, the First Mate supports three rigs—a sprit sloop, balance lug, and Bermudan sloop—allowing builders to match the boat to local conditions and personal preference. The centerboard trunk, rowing stations, and uncluttered cockpit reflect the boat’s dual role as both a sailing dinghy and a capable rowing craft. A small outboard can be mounted in a compact, self-draining well at the transom without compromising trim. With removable interior benches that can be reconfigured into a sleeping platform, the First Mate offers just enough accommodation for minimalist overnight cruising.

The design emphasizes practical performance: efficient rowing, responsive handling under sail, and straightforward systems that remain manageable in variable conditions. Its documented capability for short coastal passages, combined with its light, easily handled construction, has made the First Mate popular among sailors seeking an adaptable small craft for exploring sheltered waters, islands, and estuaries.