MBT Lelievlet - Construction Plan Scale 1:10 (10.08.028)

The Lelievlet is a sturdy steel sailing, rowing and punting boat that was originally developed for use by water scouting groups in the Netherlands. The design is based on the Beenhakkervlet and the name is derived from the traditional scouting logo, the French lily.

Features of the Lelievlet

Length: 5.60 metres

Width: 1.80 metres

Height (with mast): 5.60 metres

Draught: 0.30 metres

Sail area: 12.15 m²

Weight (hull): 650 kg

Weight (fully rigged): 900–1000 kg

Material: Steel (hull), wood (timber)

Rigging: Sloop rig with gaff sail

Capacity: Up to 6 people

The Lelievlet is designed with air chambers at the bow and stern, making the boat unsinkable. This makes the Lelievlet particularly suitable for use in scouting activities, where safety and durability are important.

History and Development

In 1956, Teunis Beenhakker built two vlets as prototypes: one measuring 4.60 metres and one measuring 5.60 metres. Both had a sail area of 12.5 m². Following extensive trial runs, the 5.60-metre vlet was chosen as the most suitable. The name ‘lelievlet’ was chosen because of the traditional Scouting logo, the French lily.

The Lelievlet quickly became popular within Scouting Netherlands and other water scouting groups. By 2006, around 1,550 Lelievlets had been built in the Netherlands. Lelievlet number ‘1’ still exists and sails under the flag of the Titus Brandsma Group from Breda. 

Use and Application

The Lelievlet is widely used by sea scout groups within Scouting Netherlands, as well as by other youth and water sports organisations. The boat is versatile and can be used for sailing, rowing, punting and sleeping on board. Thanks to its robust construction and unsinkable design, the Lelievlet is ideal for adventurous trips on inland waterways.

Building Your Own Lelievlet

For those interested in building a Lelievlet themselves, construction plans are available. For example, the Maasgroep 18 offers construction plans that can be used to build a Lelievlet.

Specifications: