Born in the Woods Raised by the River

My first sailing experience was in a ten foot wooden dinghy I built myself with no plans, and no idea what I was doing. I set out downwind several miles, and spent the night on a windswept bluff overlooking Kentucky Lake. The next morning, I awoke to big waves crashing around my little scow on the beach. I loaded the camping gear, and struck out for home. It was a very bumpy ride. Struggling to overcome the force of the waves, the boat made too much leeway to sail clear of the small cove where I had beached her (probably for the best considering the conditions). I ended up having to hike out, about a 10 mile trek through dense woods and steep terrain. This was a learning experience, to say the least. But I saw it more as an adventure than a failure.

In the following years, my boat building, sailing, and outdoor abilities have improved (somewhat), mostly thanks to the lessons taught by the Rivers and the Woods, and the Wind and the Waves. In the fall of 2021 I built a 15ft wooden sharpie powered exclusively by sail and oars. We’ve had many successful outings together including island explorations and camping on the remote shores of the Cumberland.

Informed by my own adventures exploring local waters in non powered craft, Cumberland Rover kit is designed to be put to work outdoors. Most of our items appear on The Cumberland Rover YouTube channel. When I need a piece of kit, I design it, then make it. If it turns out right, I share it with you!