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29data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this MC SCOW buyerโ€™s report

MC SCOW

from 19562,760 built
$400 โ€“ $1.0K est. annual maintenance
Catamaran / MultihullmonoCat (Marconi)VariableTwin/Triple
MC Scow โ†—

Specifications

Hull

LOA16 ft
Beam5.67 ft
Displacement420 lb

About the MC SCOW

Based on the J SCOW of the the mid-1950's. (Designed and built by John O. Johnson). Significantly updated by Melges.

Sailpages Buyer's Take

Designed by Melges/Johnson and built by Melges Performance Sailboats, the MC SCOW is a historic 16.0 ft racing skiff with a production run of 2760 hulls starting in 1956. Its lightweight 420.0 lb displacement and high SA/D ratio of 38.56 reflect its purpose as a high-performance, wind-dependent day sailor rather than a cruising vessel.

Best for:
This boat is best suited for experienced day sailors and racers seeking a responsive, high-performance skiff for coastal or lake conditions. It is ideal for those who prioritize speed and handling over comfort or storage, requiring active participation in sailing and beaching.
Bluewater capability:
With a capsize ratio of 3.03 and a displacement of only 420.0 lb, the MC SCOW is not suitable for offshore or bluewater passage making. Its design is strictly for protected coastal waters and day sailing, lacking the stability and volume for open ocean conditions.
Comparables:
Comparable boats include other 16-foot skiffs like the International 14 or the Lightning, which share similar lightweight hulls and high sail area-to-displacement ratios. These vessels are comparable because they all prioritize planing performance and require similar beaching and trailering logistics.

Performance

Capsize3.03
SA/Disp38.6

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the MC SCOW yet. If you own one, help other buyers โ€” what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 16ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$400 โ€“ $1.0K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

6 reported issues across 4 systems for the MC SCOW, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

3 critical1 major2 minor
Structural2Rigging2Deck1Rudder1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a MC SCOW? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for โ€” so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.

  • โœ“ All 6 specific issues โ€” severity, symptoms & fixes
  • โœ“ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
  • โœ“ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor โ€” yours to keep

One-time $2.99 ยท secure checkout by Stripe ยท instant access ยท 30 days online, PDF yours to keep

Similar Sailboats

Which engine powers your MC SCOW?

We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us โ€” as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.

Already know your engine? Search all engines โ†’ to find its exact parts.

Used sails that fit the MC SCOW

Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rigโ€ฆ