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Paradox is one of Matt Layden's most successful micro-cruiser designs. Built in 1993, she was initially sailed from Connecticut down the Intracoastal Waterway and as far out as the Ragged Islands in the Bahamas. After a decade of cruising near Layden's home in Florida, the Paradox was entered in the 300-mile Everglades Challenge. There, she secured first place, finishing almost a day ahead of the next competitor. Paradox is 13 feet 10 inches or 4.2 meters in length and a mere 48 inches or 1.2 meters wide, yet its voyages from around the world include sailing down the US East Coast, around Florida, visiting the Bahamas and Cuba, traveling between the Hawaiian Islands, and navigating around Cape Leeuwin at Australia's southwestern tip. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Paradox, and this guide aims to explore its history, design, technical details, and the community that has grown around it.
Matt Layden, known in the small boat scene as Wizard, prefers to maintain a low-key presence and has a limited footprint online. Designing megayachts for a living, his other passion lies in small sailboats and his designs, especially the Paradox, have made a significant impact in the small boat community. The Paradox, a robust and compact vessel with a minimal draft of only 9 inches or 23 centimeters, showcases Layden's inventive approach to boat design. It shares many features with the traditional sharpie design known for its flat-bottomed hull, pointed bow, and straightforward construction, often with a narrow beam and shallow draft. These characteristics make the Paradox an ideal boat for navigating shallow coastal waters and inland areas, a trait highly valued for exploring the shallow estuaries and bays along the US East Coast where Layden traveled for years living aboard his small boats in the late 80's and early 90's.
Layden's design philosophy, a blend of functionality, innovation, and an openness to experimentation, is clearly visible in the Paradox. Its unique flat bottom, hard chine and pronounced rocker, which differ from conventional hull designs, enhance its stability and effectiveness in shallower waters. Before creating the Paradox, Layden had already built a number of micro cruising boats, but the Paradox was the one to rise in popularity at the turn of the century and remains his most popular design to date.
The Paradox's gradual rise in popularity can be attributed to a few key factors. The availability of its detailed plans made it an accessible project for many sailing enthusiasts. Adding to its approachability was Don Elliott's comprehensive building guide, offering crucial guidance and simplifying the construction process for many builders.
The internet's emergence played an essential role, providing a global stage for builders and sailors to connect, exchange ideas, and share experiences with the Paradox. This digital forum cultivated a community that spanned continents, unified by their interest in this unique boat. Consequently, the reputation of the Paradox has naturally expanded, propelled by the enthusiasm and wisdom of its international community of builders and sailors, rather than by direct promotion from its designer.
Somewhere between 50 and 100 Paradox sailboats may have been started or built to date, from Argentina in the southern hemisphere to Norway in the north.
In the 2003 Everglades Challenge, Matt Layden's Paradox stood out amongst the fleet, which included about thirty entries comprising special kayaks, lightweight dinghies, and larger, faster boats. Although the Paradox appeared less competitive, being heavier and not as streamlined as other boats, the boat performed exceptionally well. It won in its category and also achieved an overall victory in the 304-mile race, finishing almost a full day before the next competitor.
The Paradox's success in the 2003 Everglades Challenge can be attributed to a combination of design ingenuity and Layden's sailing expertise. Unlike the lighter and ostensibly faster competitors, Paradox capitalized on its unique design to exploit the steady offshore winds, bypassing the unpredictable breezes found closer to land. This strategic choice was crucial for its remarkable performance. Additionally, the Paradox's design allowed Layden to rest and even sleep for short periods while moving, an advantage not available to competitors in kayaks.
This event serves as an illustrative example of how unconventional designs and strategies can triumph in competitive sailing. The Paradox, with its unconventional profile and heavier build, defied typical expectations about speed and efficiency in boat racing. The Paradox's victory, against a backdrop of sleeker and faster boats, underscores the potential of innovative design and experienced navigation in overcoming perceived limitations.
Sven Yrvind, a renowned sailor and small boat designer, has shared insightful views about Matt Layden's Paradox, highlighting its unique design features and the impact it has had on small boat sailing. Yrvind, deeply influenced by the Paradox, spent the spring of 1997 in Florida living and sailing with Matt Layden. During this period, he gained first-hand experience with the Paradox and its capabilities. Yrvind's observations and reflections on the Paradox are rooted in both admiration and a deep understanding of its design philosophy.
One of the most striking aspects of Paradox that Yrvind emphasizes is its use of chines of the boat and the feature called chine runners. These aerodynamic "wings," located at the chines on both sides of the boat, play a crucial role in reducing lateral movement through the water. Yrvind regards the chine runner concept, created by Matt Layden in 1982, as the greatest innovation for small cruising boats in the last century. This is a significant accolade, considering Yrvind's extensive background and reputation in the world of small boat design and sailing.
Yrvind noted an interesting aspect of Layden's sailing technique with the Paradox. He observed that Layden managed to self-steer the Paradox directly downwind by relocating his lug sail to resemble a square rigger. This adaptation demonstrates Layden's deep understanding of his boat's design and his ability to utilize its features creatively to enhance sailing performance.
The Paradox, at 13 feet in length, may be the size of a dinghy, but its flat bottom and box-like shape make the interior quite spacious. It's built to be sturdy and durable, with an almost agricultural robustness, giving a solid feel that the boat will handle whatever the sea throws at it. The unconventional design, particularly its flat bottom, is truly a conversation starter.
The Paradox is not the fastest sailboat of its class; it doesn't plane like modern dinghies. It sits low on it's lines and its strong point is its exceptional stability, making it much less likely to overturn. It's not a blue water sailing vessel for crossing oceans, but it's very much capable for coastal cruising, offering reliable performance near the shore.
The Paradox sailboat spans an overall length of approximately 13 feet 10 inches or 4.2 meters and five inches or 10 centimeters shorter at the waterline. Its beam, measuring just over 4 feet or roughly 1.2 meters, helps provide a stable and maneuverable design suitable for navigating narrow passages. A standout feature of the Paradox is its shallow draft, at just 9 inches or 23 centimeters, enhancing its ability to traverse waters that remain off-limits to many larger vessels.
The Paradox's rig can be best described as a standing lug rig with a roller furling boom. In this perticular setup, the front end of the boom is attached just forward of the mast to the deck using a tack strop. This tack strop not only guides the roller furler line but also holds the roller furling drum, thereby facilitating the free rotation of the boom. Sail area measures around 100 square feet or 9.3 square meters. When paired with the boat’s displacement of approximately 1400 lbs or 640 kilograms, it delivers a sail plan that is efficient yet manageable in various wind conditions. The sail design is critical for the boat's performance, particularly given its unique underbody configuration.
The mast of the Paradox is just over 13 feet or 4 meters long and is designed for easy rigging up and down. During transport, the mast can be stored inside the boat using a small hatch on the boats transom.
Chine runners are one of the Paradox’s most innovative features. They are flanges on the bottom of the boat's flat hull, acting as substitutes for more traditional methods like leeboards or daggerboards, enabling the boat to sail windward effectively. Despite their simplicity and the shallow draft they allow, they are quite effective. They occupy the central third of the chine, which is underwater, and are robustly constructed, being 2 or 3 inches wide. These runners are integral in resisting the sideways force produced by the sail, and their effectiveness is enhanced by the boat's design, which requires a draft of about 1/5 of the beam. Interestingly, the effectiveness of chine runners is enhanced by heeling the boat, which helps in deeper submergence of the leeward chine and improves flow lines.
The large rudder of the Paradox is not just for steering; it also carries some of the sail load. This design feature is a throwback to traditional boats in the Mediterranean that used large rudders instead of water boards, relying on deep sharp bows for navigation. The large rudder, in combination with the chine runners and the lifting body-shaped hull, contributes significantly to the boat's leeway-resistance.
The vent trunk is a box-like structure that extends from the deck down to the floor of the boat, housing the mast step and mast partners. It allows ventilation, improving air flow within the boat and it provides a centralized location where most of the boat's lines are organized and directed back to the cockpit for easier handling.
For controlling the sail, Layden employed a minimalistic approach by using just three lines: a reefing line, a halyard, and a sheet. This streamlined setup reduces complexity and maintenance, crucial for a boat like the Paradox which is intended for extended solo voyages.
A fourth line is dedicated to controlling the rudder. This line runs inside on both sides of the boat, providing a direct and responsive steering mechanism. This design choice not only simplifies the control layout but also contributes to the overall safety and manageability of the vessel. Additionally, a fifth line controls the rudder up and down and locks to a cleat on the tiller.
Most builders add a topping lift that also comes back through the vent box. The topping lift facilitates raising and lowering the sail. The boom can be raised at both ends by pulling on this single line. When the sail is furled, the topping lift is slackened and used to guide the sail into its storage position. Before making sail, a pull on the topping lift raises it just above the coach roof, ready for hoisting.
The control lines are thoughtfully routed to allow operation from within the cabin. This feature is particularly beneficial in harsh weather conditions, allowing the sailor to manage the boat while being protected from the elements.
By bringing all ropes back to the cockpit through the vent trunk or the transom, Layden ensured that the Paradox could be easily handled by a single sailor. This design philosophy extends to the overall handling of the boat, making it a reliable choice for solo adventurers seeking a compact yet capable cruising vessel.
Despite its small size, the Paradox sailboat boasts a uniquely crafted cabin top. This enclosure is designed to shield the sailor from rain, sun, and harsh weather, keeping the helmsman dry. The design allows the pilot to sit on a seat and have their head above the open hatch, enhancing visibility and air flow. When the hatch is closed, the pilot moves to a lower position inside the cabin. This innovative layout effectively utilizes the limited cabin space, ensuring both functionality and comfort for the sailor.
The Paradox includes a yuloh, an oar-like tool used for sculling. This feature underscores the boat's versatility, allowing for propulsion even without wind. The yuloh is a traditional tool, particularly useful in calm conditions or when maneuvering in tight spaces.
Maximizing the limited space available in a micro-cruiser, the Paradox smartly incorporates shelves and storage spaces under the floors. This design choice ensures that essential gear and provisions can be stowed away neatly, maintaining the boat's center of gravity low and enhancing stability and safety.
The Paradox incorporates about 18 and a half gallons or 70 liters of fresh water ballast under the floors, a feature that enhances stability and sailing performance without significantly increasing the boat's weight or draft.
Before the Paradox, three notable designs — "Terrapin," "Swamp Thing," and "Little Cruiser" — were instrumental in shaping Matt Laydens approach to design. Each of these vessels bore distinct features and imparted valuable insights, directly influencing the development of the Paradox.
Terrapin, one of Layden's earliest designs, introduced foundational concepts and revealed critical areas for improvement, particularly in terms of stability and leeway control. Following Terrapin, Swamp Thing marked a significant shift with its use of chine runners instead of traditional leeboards, enhancing upwind performance in shallow waters. Lastly, Little Cruiser, with its complex design including a centerboard and a focus on interior space and safety, further evolved Layden's approach. These boats collectively laid the groundwork for the advanced design and functionality embodied in the Paradox sailboat.
Terrapin, a microcruiser built around 1985, is Matt Layden's first home-made micro cruiser. This foundational design in Layden's career measured 13 feet 9 inches or 4.2 meters in length, had a beam of 5 feet 3 inches or 1.6 meters, a draft of 7.9 inches or 0.2 meters, and displaced 1550 lbs or 700 kg. It featured traditional leeboards, a cabin, and a fully battened mainsail, which contributed to its speed and adequate accommodations.
During his travels with Terrapin, including a journey to Florida and back to Connecticut, Layden observed several design limitations. The leeboards were found to be cumbersome and noisy, and they tended to collect debris. These experiences led Layden to explore alternative solutions for leeway reduction. Additionally, the 6 foot or 1.8 meters beam of the boat limited its self-righting capabilities, a shortcoming exposed during a severe knockdown off the coast of Maine. Fortunately, the boat's large diameter hollow mast prevented a full capsize, allowing Terrapin to be righted.
These insights gained from sailing Terrapin were instrumental in Layden's evolving design philosophy, particularly influencing his decision to move away from leeboards in favor of chine runners in his later designs, such as Swamp Thing.
The Terrapin served as a foundational project for Layden, influencing his future creations. Its design elements, both successful and challenging, played a significant role in the evolution of his next designs, including the transition to chine runners as seen in his next microcruising sailboat.
Swamp Thing, constructed in 1985, was a pivotal design in Layden's journey. It was his first micro cruiser to utilize chine runners, a significant departure from the traditional leeboards used in his earlier design, Terrapin. These chine runners or external chine logs, which replaced the cumbersome leeboards, were simpler and more efficient, significantly improving the boat's upwind performance in shallow waters.
Swamp Thing was relatively small, with a length of 13 feet and 2 inches or 4 meters and a beam of 3 feet 8 inches or 1.1 meters. Despite its size, it proved capable of long voyages, as Layden sailed it down the East Coast of the United States and out to the Bahamas. This journey was a testament to the boat's seaworthiness and Layden's skill as a sailor. The boat's design featured a simple lug sail that could be manually rolled or furled around the boom, adding to its practicality.
Little Cruiser, built in 1988, marked another evolution in Layden's design philosophy. While similar in length to Swamp Thing, it represented a more complex design. It featured a centerboard and a battened lug sail with slab reefing, all lines leading down through the centerboard trunk into the cabin. The mast, stepped on deck, could be easily folded down with an unusual "A" frame tabernacle.
The boat's design focused on creating ample interior space and ensuring the comfort and safety of its occupant in all weather conditions. Little Cruiser was well-insulated with foam, adding dryness and positive buoyancy, and was equipped with four large built-in water ballast tanks to facilitate long-range cruising.
Little Cruiser's length overall (LOA) is 15 feet 2 inches (4.62 meters).
Matt Layden spent a winter on Little Cruiser in Cape Cod frozen into the ice. Despite the freezing conditions, the boat's foam insulation kept the interior dry, allowing him to stay warm with just his stove. Little Cruiser's spacious cabin and water ballast tanks made it suitable for long trips. Matt lived on it for four years, traveling from the Bay of Funday to the Bahamas. His experience showed the boat's capability in various weather conditions.
Dave and Mindy Bolduc, who acquired Little Cruiser in 1992, undertook numerous journeys in her, including several trips to the Bahamas. They emphasized Little Cruiser's robust construction, including a 1-inch thick plywood bottom and substantial framing, which proved invaluable during their extensive cruising, including a trip where they encountered a reef in the Bahamas. The boat's design allowed for easy beaching for repairs, highlighting its practicality for long-distance cruising.
The development of the Paradox was influenced by Swamp Thing, Little Cruiser, and Terapin. Swamp Thing introduced chine runners and a simplified sailing rig, elements that Layden adopted in the Paradox. Similarly, Little Cruiser contributed ideas regarding interior space, comfort and rigging systems. Terapin's design elements also played a part, further shaping Layden's approach. Ultimately, Layden opted for chine runners in the Paradox, prioritizing performance and simplicity, and deeming the centerboard's advantages as not substantial enough to justify its complexity.
Enigma, built in 2005, was approximately 12 feet or 3.6 meters in length. This boat was notably lighter than its predecessors, employing a stitch and glue construction method and being covered with fiberglass. A notable departure from the Paradox, Enigma lacked longitudinal stringers and featured a V-shaped forward portion of the hull, as opposed to the flat bottom of the Paradox. Above the cabin, Enigma had a canvas dodger rather than the plywood cabin top seen in the Paradox. Matt Layden showcased the capabilities of Enigma by participating in the Florida Ultimate Challenge, where he achieved a commendable 3rd place overall.
Building on the foundation laid by Enigma, Matt designed the Enigma 460 in 2007. This version was three feet longer than the original Enigma and featured a plywood cabin top, aligning more closely with the design of the Paradox. George Van Sickle undertook the construction of the Enigma 460's prototype and was involved in conducting sea trials with this version as of summer 2010. The Enigma 460, described as a lighter, stitch and glue construction coastal cruiser, was approximately the same size as the Paradox but offered a faster and easier build process. It embodied characteristics similar to the Paradox, such as chine runners, a flat bottom with rocker, and box sides, but set itself apart as a light displacement vessel compared to the heavy displacement Paradox. George Van Sickle's work on the Enigma 460, including the addition of a 'hard top' cabin, further contributed to the evolution of Layden's boat designs.
However, the plans for both the original Enigma and the Enigma 460 never found their way to the public. Despite this, several Enigma 3.6 boats have been built using pictures and forum posts available on the internet. Notable among these are Dave Fahy's "Goliath," completed in 2021, and André-François Bourbeau's boat "Question," launched in the same year. Both of these builds are well-documented on YouTube and Facebook, providing valuable insights into their construction process.
Elusion is Matt Layden's latest design, a progression from his Enigma model, but notably lighter. This micro-cruiser has a length of 9 feet or 2.7 meters and a beam of 38 inches ort 96 centimeters. Its sail area is substantial for its size, approximately 100 square feet or 9.3 square meters. One of the defining features of Elusion is its weight, at around 120 pounds or roughly 54 kilograms, making it car-toppable and convenient for transportation. Instead of the usual sculling oar, the Elusion uses a stand-up paddle for auxiliary propulsion. With a draft of approximately 6 inches or just ovver 15 centimeters, and a displacement of around 360 pounds or 160 kilograms, the Elusion is designed for ease of handling and functionality in a small sailing vessel.
In 2010, Layden successfully competed in the 1200-mile Watertribe Ultimate Challenge race in Florida, securing first place in his class with the Elusion.
The Paradox sailboat's chine runners represent a striking innovation in nautical design. The essence of chine runners lies in their deceptively simple yet highly effective design, enabling these boats to perform remarkably well under various conditions, especially in navigating windward.
Chine runners are a distinctive feature of Matt Layden's boats. They are small, horizontal winglets that extend from the chines, the juncture where the bottom of the boat meets the sides, for approximately one-third of the boat's length. These are not merely protrusions of the boat's base layer; they are robust structures, integral to the boat's design, which reside in the central underwater section of the chine. The brilliance of chine runners is encapsulated in their dual function: they help eliminate the need for a centerboard or leeboard, while providing the boat with lateral resistance. This is particularly advantageous in shallow waters where traditional deep keels or boards are impractical.
The concept of chine runners is a relatively recent development in boat building. Traditional boat designs relied heavily on centerboards, leeboards, or deep keels to provide the necessary lateral resistance for sailing windward. These designs, however, had limitations, especially in shallow water conditions. The introduction of chine runners was a response to these limitations, offering an innovative solution that was both simple and effective.
The primary function of these runners is to counteract the lateral force exerted by the wind on the sails, a force that tends to push the boat sideways rather than forward. The chine runners, being positioned on the underwater portion of the chine, interact with the water flow to generate this lift, thereby providing the necessary lateral resistance. The positioning of these runners, occupying the central third of the chine, is crucial. This specific placement ensures that the lift generated is optimized for both efficiency and performance.
The concept of chine runners in sailboats, as developed by Matt Layden, borrows heavily from the designs of Phil Bolger, notably in Bolger's Lion's Paw. It's flat bottom's design, which was wider than the boat itself, extended about 2 inches or 5 centimeters on each side. Bolger's use of this edging in his modern flat-bottom boats served dual purposes. It allowed amateur builders to construct the boat upright, and the protruding edge, part of the 3/8 of an icnh or 10 millimeter thick bottom sheet, protected the thinner hull sides during groundings. Despite potential criticisms about increased resistance due to the edging, Bolger anticipated that the edging's design would not significantly affect a large hull's resistance, as it prevented flow from the sides to the bottom. Notably, these edgings in Bolger's design weren't intended to enhance tacking.
Layden, however, saw something in Bolger's edgings that others did not. He postulated that a modified bottom edging could significantly improve a flat-bottom boat's tacking abilities. To test this theory, Layden created two boat models of the same size, one with traditional round bilges and the other with a flat bottom and what he named "chinerunners." Through experiments towing the models in a brook, initially, at low speeds, the difference in resistance was negligible. However, when tested in faster currents or heeled over thirty degrees, the chinerunner model demonstrated clear superiority in speed. These experiments were promising enough for Layden to proceed with a full-scale trial.
Hull slap is notably absent aboard the Paradox sailboat, an advantage stemming from its distinctive design. Unlike the traditional Bolger sharpie with a raised bow, the Paradox features a bow that is either completely submerged or very close to the water's surface. This design element plays a crucial role in eliminating the noisy phenomenon commonly experienced in flat-bottomed boats, where water striking the underside of the bow creates a slapping sound. This sound is particularly noticeable when at anchor or in choppy waters. The Paradox's design, with its submerged bow and aft-peaked rocker, ensures a quieter and more peaceful experience on the water.
The success of Layden's boat, despite conventional theories suggesting otherwise, is akin to the bumblebee's flight - seemingly defying expected norms. The attempt to explain the boat's tacking ability led to a departure from standard aircraft theories used in sailing. Instead, insights were gleaned from other flow phenomena, such as the theory of slender bodies which explains increased draw in a flow-line. This theory had previously been used by C.A. Marchaj to elucidate the efficiency of the traditional crab-claw sail in the Southern Pacific. It was hypothesized that a similar phenomenon might account for the Paradox's tacking ability.
Chine runners can be likened to the aerodynamic "fences" seen in aircraft design. In aviation, these fences are structures on airplane wings that prevent unwanted lateral airflow, thereby maintaining a consistent flow over the wing and enhancing lift. Layden's application of this concept to sailboats through chine runners is an innovative step in marine design, as it borrows from a well-established aerodynamic principle and adapts it to hydrodynamic contexts.
The essence of chine runners' functionality lies in their ability to create a hydrodynamic lift, an idea that has parallels in the concept of a lifting body. A lifting body, a term often associated with experimental designs at NASA, particularly in the 1970s, refers to a vehicle or structure whose body itself produces lift. Francis Rogallo at NASA was a notable figure in this field, pioneering designs that led to developments in modern hang gliders and other aircraft. His work on flexible wings and delta-wing structures, which could create lift through their shape alone, is a cornerstone of aerodynamic engineering and has clear parallels in Layden's approach to sailboat design.
In the context of sailboats, the lifting body is the hull itself, which, when combined with the chine runners, acts similarly to a wing. The chine runners, protruding slightly from the hull, disrupt water flow, creating separate high and low-pressure areas. This disruption mimics the aerodynamic lift seen in aircraft wings, albeit in a hydrodynamic setting. Bernoulli's Law, which explains how an increase in fluid speed occurs simultaneously with a decrease in pressure, plays a significant role here. As water flows faster over the surface of the chine runners, a lower pressure is created, contributing to the overall lift of the boat. This lift is critical in reducing leeway, allowing the boat to maintain a more direct course and enhance its performance in various sea conditions.
The integration of these principles in boat design represents a significant departure from traditional designs, which often relied on deeper, more substantial underwater structures to counteract leeway and maintain stability. Chine runners, by contrast, provide a more efficient and less invasive method of achieving the same goals. Their design, inspired by aerodynamic fences and lifting bodies, enables them to generate hydrodynamic lift, working in harmony with the boat's hull and rudder.
Layden's adoption of these concepts into his sailboat designs, particularly in the Paradox sailboat, is a testament to the versatility and adaptability of aerodynamic principles across different mediums. By observing and integrating these principles, Layden has not only improved the performance of his sailboats but has also contributed to a broader understanding of how aerodynamics can be effectively applied in marine environments.
The development of chine runners illustrates the value of unconventional thinking in design. By integrating ideas from aerospace into marine design, innovators like Layden and Bolger demonstrate that stepping beyond traditional boundaries can yield more efficient, stable, and better-performing sailboats. The Paradox, with its distinctive chine runners, stands as a testament to the success of this approach, combining the elegance of traditional sailing with the precision of modern engineering.
Another critical aspect of the chine runner design is its impact on the boat's draft. The draft of a boat is the vertical distance between the waterline and the deepest point of the boat. Traditional designs with deeper keels or boards often had significant drafts, limiting their ability to navigate in shallow waters. The chine runners, with their placement and design, allow for a shallower draft. This aspect is particularly beneficial for boats like the Paradox, designed to excel in coastal and shallow water environments.
The effectiveness of chine runners is further enhanced when the boat heels. In traditional designs, heeling can sometimes reduce the effectiveness of the underwater structures in providing lateral resistance. However, in the case of boats equipped with chine runners, heeling plays a beneficial role. In order for the chine runners to work, the boat's draft needs to be at least 1/5 of the beam. As the boat heels, one of the chine runners becomes more deeply submerged, increasing its effectiveness in generating hydrodynamic lift. This characteristic is especially advantageous when sailing upwind, a condition where maintaining course and minimizing sideways drift is critical. A heeling of about 20 to 30 degrees seems to be the most effective for Paradox performance, optimizing the engagement of the chine runners and enhancing the hull's uprighting capabilities.
In an interview with the Small Craft Advisor magazine Matt Layden referenced a certain "mythology" that has developed around chine runners, specifically the misconception that these components, in themselves, are capable of replacing a centerboard or other conventional foils used for leeway resistance in sailboats. He clarified that this is not the case; rather than acting as standalone solutions, chine runners are a relatively minor part of a more complex, integrated system that he has engineered for his boats.
Layden pointed out that while the chine runners are helpful, the lifting body hull can function effectively without them, although their presence enhances the boat's performance. Thus, the internet mythology that oversimplifies the role of chine runners fails to recognize the nuanced and systemic nature of their application in boat design.
In practical terms, the introduction of chine runners has opened up new possibilities for small boat design and sailing. Boats like the Paradox, equipped with these runners, have demonstrated remarkable capabilities in environments that were previously challenging or inaccessible to traditional designs. The ability to sail effectively in shallow waters, without the need for complex or cumbersome underwater structures, has been a game-changer in the world of small boat sailing.
The Paradox sailboat's rudder is distinctively large compared to those on similarly sized vessels, serving functions beyond mere steering. Its considerable size is integral in distributing the sail load, a key factor in the boat's stability and performance. The rudder's one-inch thickness underscores its critical role in the Paradox's overall design, reflecting its dual purpose in steering accuracy and sail load management.
This rudder's functionality is further amplified by its synergy with the Paradox's other design features, such as the chine runners and the hull's lifting body shape. These elements work together to enhance lateral stability and maintain course, especially in crosswinds or during intricate maneuvers.
Comprising two primary parts—the rudder stock and a kick-up blade—the rudder's structure is both innovative and practical. The rudder stock, attaching the rudder to the boat, incorporates a swim step for safe and easy re-entry from the water, enhancing both safety and functionality.
The kick-up blade is invaluable in shallow areas, designed to pivot upwards when hitting submerged objects, thus preventing potential damage. Its foil shape is engineered for efficient water movement, ensuring better control and minimized drag.
A notable feature of the Paradox is the cockpit-controlled rudder adjustment, allowing sailors to modify the rudder's depth according to different sailing conditions and water depths. This adaptability is especially beneficial in areas with variable water levels or diverse marine landscapes.
The tiller of the Paradox, extending through the transom, provides direct and responsive steering. Connected to the rudder stock, it passes through a transom aperture fitted with a vent baffle system. This ingenious system redirects any infiltrating water back to the sea, preserving the boat’s integrity and ensuring effective rudder operation in various sailing conditions.
The design of the tiller allows for about 30 degrees of turn in each direction, providing precise and responsive steering for the sailor.
The Paradox may not immediately catch the eye when seen on a trailer due to its pronounced rocker and flat bottom. However, this initial impression is deceptive. When the Paradox is in its element, sitting low on its lines in the water, it reveals a different persona. It takes a relatively large amount of ballast to bring the Paradox down to its waterline, an essential aspect of its design. This need arises primarily due to the boat's underwater structure, particularly the chine runners. These chine runners are designed in such a way that the boat's draft needs to be at least one-fifth of its beam. To achieve this, approximately 400 pounds or 180 kilograms of lead ballast is placed under the floor, which is crucial for lowering the boat's center of gravity and enhancing stability, especially in choppy sea conditions.
On the Paradox, the highest part of the rocker is located just behind the center of the boat. This spot is right where the skipper sits and close to where most of the ballast is, just a bit ahead. This setup helps the chine runners work better. On the other hand, boats like Jim Michalak's Robbsboat have an even rocker with the highest point more towards the front. Here, the chine runners might be a bit too far forward, which can slightly change how the boat sails. This shows why it's important to get the placement of the rocker and chine runners right.
Despite its heavy ballast, the Paradox sailboat is designed to stay afloat, thanks to several practical design features. Air pockets are included in various parts of the boat, such as the forepeak, which is accessible by a small hole, to help it float. Foam plates are installed between the deck beams, which also assist in flotation and help reduce condensation under the deck. Additionally, the boat uses water ballast, which is neutral in buoyancy, to maintain stability without affecting its buoyancy.
The Paradox's design allows for the use of additional gear, such as anchors, to serve as supplementary ballast. This proves beneficial for those looking to minimize the amount of lead and maximize space aboard. By strategically placing gear like anchors in the boat, builders can achieve the necessary ballast weight while also having practical equipment on board.
The Paradox also incorporates built-in water tanks as part of its ballasting system. These tanks serve a dual purpose: they provide supplemental ballast when filled, further lowering the boat's center of gravity and improving stability, and they also offer a fresh water supply for extended voyages. Specifically, the water tanks are situated under the floors near the foot of the mast. This location ensures they contribute effectively to the boat's ballasting while being accessible for maintenance and use. The system consists of two chambers, with a total capacity of 18 gallons or approximately 70 liters. While originally designed for fresh water storage, as exemplified in the construction of the Paradox, some builders have adapted these tanks to draw water from the sea.
The Paradox, when properly loaded and ballasted, can right itself completely under normal circumstances, a feature that is essential for safety at sea, especially in challenging conditions. The design takes into account the dynamics of heeling and capsizing. Notably, the stability charts for the Paradox indicate a self-righting arm up to 165 degrees, and it is confirmed through practical demonstrations that a correctly ballasted Paradox will definitely self-right from a 90-degree heel. Capsize tests on the Paradox, documented in various YouTube videos, demonstrate the vessel's exceptional stability. Efforts to capsize the boat by standing on its side and pulling the mast have proven nearly futile. In another test, the Paradox is tilted to a near 90-degree angle while the pilot remains aboard and leaning to the side, with two additional individuals applying downward force on the mast. Notably, upon release, the boat exhibits an impressive ability to return to its upright position, showcasing a significant dampening effect that almost immediately stabilizes the boat.
Comparatively, many dory and sharpie designs are not inherently self-righting or self-rescuing. Matt Layden, in designing the Paradox, began with a sharpie shape but modified it to behave more like a kayak. This means the Paradox is self-righting if someone is safely inside, and self-rescuing in that it can right itself if it completely capsizes, or "turns turtle", similar to a kayak rolling over.
In terms of trailering, the water ballast system presents a significant advantage. When the tanks are emptied, the overall weight of the boat is reduced, making it easier to transport on a trailer. This feature is especially beneficial for sailors who frequently transport their boats overland. The reduction in trailer weight not only makes transportation easier but also more fuel-efficient, which is an important consideration for many boat owners.
The Paradox sailboat features a rigging system that primarily resembles a standing lug rig. Notably, a segment of the sail's lower section projects ahead of the mast, akin to what is seen in a balanced lug rig. Additionally, the boat is outfitted with a roller furling boom. This rig, blending traditional design with modern elements, is exceptionally fitting for compact vessels such as the Paradox, providing an optimal mix of straightforward operation and sailing efficiency.
The rig features a boom, attached to the deck slightly forward of the mast via a tack strop. This tack strop performs dual roles: it guides the roller furler line and supports the roller furling drum, facilitating the boom's rotation for efficient sail furling and unfurling. The boom is designed to taper gently, ensuring effective gathering of the sail.
Raising the sail involves releasing the furling line, allowing the boom to rotate and the sail to unfurl. Reefing, or reducing the sail area in response to wind and sea changes, is just the reverse process. It's quick and safe, crucial for adapting to varying conditions.
The furling line extends into the cockpit via a vent box, improving both ease of use and safety. This is especially beneficial in tough weather or for solo sailing. All control lines, including the furling line, lead to the cabin, permitting sail management from a protected area, enhancing safety and convenience.
The Paradox's mast is unstayed, meaning it doesn't have the usual wires or rigging. This absence reduces weight and complexity, aligning with the boat’s minimalist design philosophy focused on simplicity and efficiency.
The lug sail on the Paradox blends traditional techniques with modern innovations. The sail's balanced design, coupled with its efficient furling and reefing system, demonstrates Matt Layden's skill in adapting historical concepts for contemporary sailing
At its core, the vent trunk is a vertical box structure that spans from the deck to the floor of the sailboat. On the front, inside the boat, it includes an opening that serves for ventilation, accommodating ropes and a series of cleats. At the top, on the deck, it features two distinct openings: one for inserting the mast and another for ventilation. Its primary purpose is to hold the mast step and mast partners, providing crucial support for the mast.
Ventilation is a critical aspect of the vent trunk's functionality. It is equipped with an opening approximately 6 inches (150mm) in size, allowing for efficient air circulation within the cabin. This feature is vital for maintaining a fresh and comfortable atmosphere inside the boat, particularly important in smaller spaces like those found in the Paradox. By ensuring consistent airflow, the vent trunk helps in reducing dampness and preventing the accumulation of condensation, which is essential for both the comfort of the occupants and the preservation of the boat's interior.
The vent trunk also cleverly incorporates a drainage system that extends through the hull, discharging any water that enters onto the deck directly out to sea. This ingenious design, positioned above the waterline, is particularly beneficial in adverse weather conditions, where water ingress can pose a significant challenge. The interior of the vent trunk is glassed, making it watertight.
Beyond its ventilation and drainage capabilities, the vent trunk is smartly utilized for organizing the boat's lines. Most of the lines, including the main halyard, topping lift, and roller furler, are led back to the cockpit through this central point. This arrangement is not only a testament to the efficient use of space but also significantly enhances the sailboat's ease of handling. For a vessel often managed by a solo sailor, such convenience in line handling is invaluable, especially under challenging sailing conditions. Cleats mounted on the front of the vent trunk further facilitate the secure and convenient operation of these lines.
The Paradox sailboat is more than just a boat for travel on water; it's a fusion of creative design, community involvement, and a rich history. This compact boat has gained a following among sailing enthusiasts, fostering a global community.
For the last 20 years, Paradox has been surrounded by a community-driven spirit. In its early stages, enthusiasts and builders connected through a Yahoo mailing list, exchanging tips and experiences. This online platform was crucial in building a community, which later transitioned to a Facebook group, reflecting the adaptability and longevity of this community.
The Paradox community is diverse, ranging from beginners to experienced sailors. This mix of skills and experiences enhances the community, as members discuss various aspects of building and sailing the Paradox. Newcomers receive support and guidance, while seasoned sailors share stories and advice.
The Paradox's impact goes beyond its design; it symbolizes simplicity, efficiency, and a connection with nature. Its minimalist approach to sailing aligns with sustainable and environmentally friendly boating practices.
The Paradox has also influenced other designs by Matt Layden, like the Enigma 360 and 460, reflecting his evolving design philosophy. Individual builders add to the boat's legacy by customizing their Paradox, contributing to the collective knowledge and development of the design.
Thirty years on, the Paradox remains a testament to simplicity, functionality, and the joy of sailing. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most profound pleasures come from the smallest of vessels. To all who have been a part of this journey, whether by building, sailing, or simply admiring the Paradox, thank you. Here's to the continued voyage of this remarkable boat, may it continue to inspire and bring joy for many years to come.