'Drifter', a Small Sailing Cruiser, perhaps a Finesse 21

I have not been able to positively identify this delightful small sailing cruiser, but she is similar to an A. F. Platt Finesse 21. The Finesse 24 would appear to have a higher cabin trunk, and differently shaped ports. ‘Drifter’, the boat featured here, has running backstays, whereas a Finesse 24 has standing backstays, and the former has been fitted with a bowsprit, making her a cutter. ‘Sea Bear’, the Finesse 21 for sale* at Watchet, has a single backstay and three shrouds either side. The two boats look very much alike.

This sort of sturdily constructed vessel with a centreplate and bilge runners is ideal for the shallow waters of the East Coast.

Links

A F Platt (Finesse) Ltd.

http://www.mylocalservices.co.uk/Essex/Boat_Builders_and_Repairs/599135/A_F_Platt_Finesse_Ltd.html

Finesse 21- Sailboat Data.com

 http://sailboatdata.com/viewrecord.asp?class_id=5124

*Finesse 21 8Sea Bear’ for Sale £8,950

http://www.easternyachts.com/seabear.htm

Finesse 24 for Sale £4,250 (Sold)

http://hamble.boatshed.com/finesse_24-boat-174333.html

Finesse 24s for Sale

http://www.boatshop24.co.uk/finesse-24