In the mid 1940’s The Yachting Monthly magazine sponsored several naval architects to produce sailing yachts of various types and design for publication within the magazine. Alan Buchanan ARINA ARAES, a well known and respected yacht designer set out the plans for a ‘pocket cruiser’ of three tons Thames Measurement. The brief was to produce a design which would be within the capabilities of amateur construction. In Michael Verney’s ‘Complete Amateur Boat Building’ published on 31st December 1958 the author outlines an easy guide to the construction of the YM 3 Tonner. The designer sets out the plans on no less than nine sheets detailing every aspect of the construction, sail plan, keel configuration and accommodation.
‘Fleur’ completed in 1957 was built in Portsmouth over a number of years by R Chamberlain. A photograph record exists of the stages of her construction which is to professional standards. The black and white images date from the time of launching and first commissioning in the late 1950’s. Purchased by the present owner in 2002, ‘Fleur’ has been well maintained with a few on-going recommendations from a 2004 survey report. An active owners association ensures the survival of the Yachting Monthly sponsored designs for may years to come.
Carvel mahogany planked hull, copper fastened to steam bent oak timbers. Raised mahogany topsides with varnished mahogany sheer planks with bronze port-lights. Mahogany cockpit and cabin coamings and sheathed marine ply decks (1996) Round bilges, spoon bow, raked transom stern and long keel with retractable centre-plate.
Traditional accommodation offering two upholstered settee / berths with galley having two burner gas cooker with grill. Stainless steel sink unit and pantry / crockery lockers. Forward heads compartment with marine wc. Stowage for sails, fenders, warps and legs. Self draining aft cockpit. Stainless steel pulpit, pushpit and guard rails. Tiller steering with tansom hung rudder.
Yanmar 1GM 10 diesel auxillary with only 1,500 hours since fitted new in 1995. 10 gallon fuel capacity. 12 volt battery (2009) Fixed three blade propeller. Approximate speed 5.5 knots. Engine overhauled in 2009.
Deck stepped bermudian rig with aluminium mast and boom. Four Dacron sails by Ratsey and Lee (2004) setting 300 sq. ft. plain sail. Slab reefing. stainless steel standing rigging renewed in 1998.
Inventory includes CQR anchor and chain, beaching legs, fenders and mooring warps, bilge pump, two Crewsaver life jackets, various flares, Nasa VHF radio, Autohelm, Nasa depth sounder, Nasa distance / speed log, Plastimo compass, Walker Knotmaster trailing log, various charts of The Channel and SW English Coast.
Brokers Note:
An attractive and able ‘Pocket Cruiser’ offered at a realistic price with only some final re-wiring to complete. With her centre-board keel ‘Petite Fleur’ is ideal for estuary, river and coastal sea passages under normal conditions and offers classic style with a creditable performance under sail, the full width coachroof provides good sail changing deck space and a larger volume down below.
Lying: Cornwall
Viewing: By arrangement with the brokers Classic Yacht Brokerage, Tel: 01905-356482
Guide Price: Sold
