Downeaster 38 Ketch Bowsprit Build

#downeaster38#bowsprit#boatbuilding
It's time to replace Tondelayo's bowsprit so here's how I made a new one.
If you own a Downeaster then there are some measurements that might help you out.

[@jacklondon8385]

good job. Do you know why Downeaster boats have a large gap under the bowsprit between the ornate "beak"? It puzzles me.

[@downunderprojects9322]

No I don't. I think there were some that followed the deck but mine is raised on three blocks. Perhaps to stop rot as they are laminated sprits?
Most if not all Downeaster 38's had trailboards which drew your attention.
Personally, because my boat is called Tondelayo, I'm going to fit a figure head of Hedy Lamarr which will hide the gap and really get some attention.
images.app.goo.gl/jFdyPHT1UzQKJH3h7

[@jacklondon8385]

@@downunderprojects9322 wow!! Hedy Lamarr will create a lot of attention although reproducing such beauty will be a challenge. I dont know what you mean by tailboards. The previous owner of my boat installed a new mahogany bowsprit and I will do all I can to prevent any rot as its not a job I would like to do. The gap under the bowsprit makes no sense to me and I was thinking of a figurehead as well. I cannot believe there is no reason. all boats similar have no gaps.

[@keeledover4218]

my downeaster is the 41 there is no gap or beak
and no trail boards or scroll work just fiberglass hull
and the bowsprit is a aluminum mast cut down and glassed into the forepeak
this is how all pilothouse 41s were constructed
i want to add the trail boards to the boat and maybe add on the beak you call it
i was thinking of some kind of mold and then casting in resin and glassing to the boat

[@Verradonairun]

Does it really need to be that thick, or are you just being cautious,?

[@downunderprojects9322]

I just used the dimensions of the existing bowsprit.

[@Verradonairun]

Sounds like a good idea!