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The Tela 16'6" is a beautiful craft produced by Salterns Boatbuilders Ltd. Her history: Tela was originally built in 1911 in Barry, as a day racing boat to race in local class races. The local boats were originally used by Pilots as seeking boats and they raced informally; however, by the turn of the century, the racing was the most important bit as far as we can see! Tela raced through to the 1950s, and was discovered derelict in Cornwall around 1980, when a mould was taken from the hull. Unfortunately no other details were recorded. The deck and rig we have based on archive photos and practices used at the time. The sail balance is excellent, resulting in a very light helm ~ two fingers on the tiller is quite sufficient and Tela will sail to windward hands-off the helm and will heave to with ease. The deep centreplate and the efficient rig enable the Tela to sail to windward unlike virtually any other gaff-rigged boat, and she tacks around calmly and smoothly in the tightest of spaces. Her slim lines mean she can pick up speed rapidly and her heavy displacement carries her way through small wind-holes in fluky conditions. The Tela is unlike a dinghy in feel as she has 200Kg of lead deep in the bilges. This, and the heavy steel centreplate, makes her very stable……. Yes, you could walk around the gunnels or on the foredeck with ease and, as soon as a gust hits the sails, this weight damps down the roll and controls the heeling angle just like a keel boat. If it is blowing hard, sit on the side deck, ease the sheets and enjoy the speed!! Claire Read from Dinghy Sailing magazine (Sept 2005): “Launched using a purpose built trailer, the Tela slips quickly and easily into the water. She is pretty and distinct boat, with the look of a traditional classic day sailer yet the advantages of modern materials and construction techniques. The Tela sits snugly into the average garage but that is hard to believe once you’re aboard. An uncluttered and spacious cockpit greets you, with plenty of open seating along the sides and on the centre thwart. There is ample space to stow a picnic, oars and other cruising essentials in the fore deck, under the open seating and in an aft locker. The slender lines provide pleasing aesthetics while a surprising turn of speed and agility will not disappoint. The helm is light and responsive, and the controls fall easily to hand so that the helm can sail alone. Tacking and gibing is effortlessly done; the boom is high and provides no barrier in crossing the cockpit. Even the most nervous crew would feel at ease in the stable and steady Tela. She is perfectly balanced so much so she can be sailed with hands off the helm! The 50% ballast ratio ensures a comfortable and dry ride as she cuts through the water. The gaff rig provides plenty of power but also the opportunity to reef or depower quickly and easily whilst afloat. The jib can be furled with ease as the rope is lead back to the cockpit to be administered by the crew or within easy reach of the helm. Even with the centreplate raised she resists the temptation to slip sideways and the 200kg of ballast provide the stability demanded by even the most nervous crew.”

• Country: United Kingdom
• Length: 16'6" (5.03 metres)