The following is an excerpt from the recently released book, Carolina Flare, Outer Banks Building and Sportfishing Heritage, by Neal, John and Jim Conoley, a father/sons writing team from North Carolina. The trio did an excellent job of interviewing, researching and uncovering old photographs and stories from the earliest days of Carolina-style boatbuilding. It makes for a fascinating and entertaining read that's sure to thrill anyone interested in offshore boats. You'll find more excerpts in the September 2007 issue of Marlin magazine, and you can purchase the book online or find out more at www.carolinaflare.com.

See Also:
Carolina-Syle Contruction: The Plank-on-Frame Process
Carolina-Style Contruction: The Cold-Molded Process

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Flare: The upward and outward curvature of the hull at the bow is a feature that exemplifies the Carolina style. An exaggerated flare helps deflect waves and spray away from the hull. The "Carolina flare" is recognized around the world.
Broken Sheer Line: The broken sheer line is a curved step-down of the sheer line as it sweeps from the bow to the stern. This feature provides a pleasing transition from the inset cabin to the low, straight cockpit gunwales.
S-Frame: The S-frame, sometimes known as S-curve, refers to the shape of the hull from the sheer line, past the chine to the keel. The S-frame provides more interior space for living quarters.
Sharp Entry: The sharp entry, or deep-Vee forward, is a design feature on Carolina-style boats that allows the boat to knife through waves. The sharp entry combined with a hull that flattens toward the stern results in a vessel that performs well in both head seas and following seas.
Exaggerated Tumblehome: The tumblehome is when the width of the beam, most often measured at the transom, is wider than the width of the uppermost deck. The tumblehome is a feature that adds a pleasing look to the boat.
Hawk and Exaggerated Spray Rails: Carolina-style boats have a noticeable "hawk" or hook where the bow stem, flare and foredeck converge. The hawk curves upward to provide stability and pleasing lines to the bow of the boat. Exaggerated spray rails not only help deflect ocean spray down and away from the boat but they also provide extra lift for the hull.

 

Photographs of the Hunter built by Paul Mann