For diehard single and doublehanded racers in need of regatta lodging when on the weekend regatta circuit, the CLC Teardrop Camper offers a highly suitable sailor slumber option. Chesapeake Light Craft (CLC) owner and CEO John C. Harris says that teardrop units have been available for quite awhile–there are ads for kits and plans in magazines from the 1930s and 40s. Some of the plans were splendid; some pretty clunky. In 2014 Harris asked, “What if we take the same boatbuilding materials and techniques we’ve been refining for 25 years at Chesapeake Light Craft and build a teardrop trailer? And the same sculptural approach that we bring to boat design?”
Builder Options for Regatta Lodging
With a finished outside dimension of 5′ x 8,’ there’s enough interior space to toss in a 60″ x 80″ (queen-sized) air mattress for your post-race crash. The design features large doors on both sides and a roof hatch for ventilation. Need lights to study race rules after dark? The camper may be outfitted with an onboard electrical system capable of powering interior lights, a fan and smaller electric accessories.
A touch of boat builder craftsmanship for weekend regatta lodging circuit slumber. Photo ©Chesapeake Light Craft.
Weekend Regatta Lodging Needs go Retro with Travel Camper. Tiny toter. Photo ©Chesapeake Light Craft.
There’s space to sleep two yacht fans. Add bikes, a canoe and other gear on the roof (rack required–load limit of up to 150 pounds) too. Customize your aft–the designers have devised a shelving unit system (kit option) that drops into place. Your transom can double as a galley, additional storage area or heck maybe even a tailgaters’ counter.
Ready to Run
Mode of transport was well thought out too, with a goal to tap what many sailors already have or can get their hands on–a small flatbed boat trailer. Alternatively, a Trailex Sport Utility Trailers lightweight aluminum model is being developed for the Teardrop. Regatta racers can head off the yacht and into a retro camper van for safe sleeping.
Additional storage, mini kitchen, tailgater HQ–yacht racers can customize the aft as they wish. Photo ©Chesapeake Light Craft
