CL 16

Description

The CL 16 (also written as CL16 or CL-16) is a popular Canadian fiberglass sailing dinghy designed by Ian Proctor (with Graham Dodd and George Blanchard) and built by CL Sailboats (originally C&L Boatworks, founded by Croce & Lofthouse in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia, later Toronto) starting in 1968; production has continued in various forms for decades (with some interruptions and ownership changes), and it's still supported as a one-design class with active fleets, especially in Canada. It's essentially a fiberglass evolution of Proctor's famous 1957 Wayfarer design, with identical hull dimensions and shape but updated cockpit/interior details, fiberglass construction (replacing the wooden Wayfarer), and mahogany trim accents. Special features include a double-chined planing hull for excellent performance in light airs and stability in heavy weather, fractional sloop rig (with optional symmetric spinnaker for racing), retractable centerboard and kick-up rudder for shallow-water access and beaching, large open cockpit (comfortably seats 4–6 for daysailing/cruising, or 2 for racing), positive flotation, easy single-handed rigging (mast pivots below deck), and versatility as a safe family daysailer, regatta racer, or even adventurous dinghy cruiser (some owners have logged hundreds of miles on coastal/river trips)—praised for its forgiving nature, speed, and longevity.