Lilou 2 16ft Custom Built Wooden Boat

The Lilou 2 is a compact and spirited sail and oar dinghy that draws inspiration from classic Nordic prams while embracing modern simplicity. With its upright bow generous beam and lightly rockered hull the Lilou 2 presents a charming yet purposeful profile. Designed for accessibility and ease of handling it offers an inviting platform for family sailing training sessions and relaxed coastal exploration. Constructed in our workshop using selected marine timbers such as Western Red Cedar Mahogany and Teak the Lilou 2 is reinforced where necessary with U.S. made Hexcel fiberglass and protected with System Three marine spar varnish for durability in varied marine conditions. Each hull is hand built using traditional plank on frame techniques ensuring structural reliability and authentic craftsmanship. The hull form emphasizes initial stability efficient rowing geometry and balanced sail response even in light to moderate winds. Typical build time ranges from 4 to 6 months depending on finish level and customization. Owners may personalize wood selection seating configuration rig arrangement finish tone hardware detailing and storage solutions to suit individual waters and intended use. The adaptable layout allows the Lilou 2 to serve equally well as a tender training dinghy or compact recreational sailer. Specifications - Hull length/waterline: 16.73/15.09 ft - Breadth / waterline: 6.3/5.05ft - Draught: 1.48/3.28ft - Light weight/ballast: 837.76/88.18lbs - Sail area sloop: 182.99ft2 - Outboard motor: 5hp Performance and Use The Lilou 2 is ideal for lakes quiet harbors and protected coastal areas. Under sail it offers predictable heel behavior and responsive helm feedback while remaining stable and confidence inspiring for newer sailors. Under oars it tracks cleanly and moves efficiently making it practical for short transfers and calm water rowing. Light easily handled and visually timeless the Lilou 2 combines traditional craftsmanship with everyday usability. This wooden boat crafted by us is built from Vivierboats, with full credit given to the original designers where applicable. For each custom commission we obtain the appropriate drawings and construct the vessel to order offering both full size boats and finely detailed scale models. Contact us to discuss configuration possibilities build scheduling and detailed specifications for your Lilou 2. The Lilou 2 reflects the charm and practicality of traditional small European day boats that were once central to coastal and river life. Inspired by classic craft from regions such as Brittany, these boats were built to serve fishing families and local sailors who needed stability, shallow draft, and dependable handling in tidal waters. Their simple yet elegant hull shapes allowed smooth movement through sheltered bays and narrow estuaries. The Lilou 2 carries forward this heritage with refined proportions and a versatile open layout suited for leisure cruising. As boating gradually shifted from necessity to recreation, designs like this preserved traditional craftsmanship while adapting to modern expectations. Today, the Lilou 2 stands as a tribute to enduring maritime culture, combining historic inspiration with contemporary comfort and performance.