The Pelican was originally created in 1959 by Captain Bill Short. His original, simple 12′ home built plywood pram could be made from sheets of marine grade plywood and some planks of vertical grain fir or spruce. A design which incorporates the simplicity of the El Toro with the flare of a Banks Dory and an oriental Sampan Bow. The stability of the boat, it’s roominess, and balanced helm make it an ideal boat for gunkholing and family sailing on a budget.

Photos taken February 22, 2014 on the Oakland Estuary in Northern California. Report and photos by Erik Simonson. Click on image to enlarge.