The Saipan is a graceful 7'6" sailing pram originally created by the legendary father-and-son designers, William and John Atkin. Inspired by a heartfelt exchange between them while John was stationed overseas, the Saipan was born as a symbol of family, craftsmanship, and timeless design. Compact yet sturdy, this elegant little craft perfectly embodies the Atkins' vision of simplicity, strength, and practical beauty-a small boat with a big story. This 30-inch custom-made scale model is handcrafted to order, faithfully capturing the character and proportions of the original Saipan. Each piece is built entirely by hand using the traditional plank-on-frame construction method and premium Western Red Cedar, Teak, Mahogany, and other fine exotic woods. Every model requires approximately 4-5 months of meticulous craftsmanship, ensuring precision, durability, and authentic detailing. Throughout production, clients receive progress photos at key milestones for review and approval: - Hull planking and shaping - Interior layout, mast, and rigging installation - Final painting, varnishing, and finishing touches Once completed, the model is securely packed in a reinforced wooden crate for safe international shipping. Available exclusively as a custom-made project, the Saipan boat model captures the enduring artistry of traditional boatbuilding-simple, elegant, and rich in heritage. To begin your build or request custom specifications, please visit Custom-made Projects
Saipan, a 7'6" flat-bottom sailing pram designed by William and John Atkin, originated from penciled plans John sent home while stationed abroad-an exchange that inspired the boat's name and gave the design a personal, wartime backstory. Compact yet thoughtfully arranged, Saipan features a center thwart, mast bench, open gunwales, and a reinforced centerboard trunk, all contributing to strength, simplicity, and easy maintenance. Raised floor gratings keep the interior dry, while a bow ring ensures the pram tows steadily with her head up. Sailed from the bottom gratings and rigged with an uncomplicated spruce mast and small balloon-cloth sail, Saipan embodies the Atkin tradition of practical, seaworthy small craft tailored for straightforward building and enjoyable harbor sailing.
