Molly Q: A Living Legacy of the Morecambe Bay Prawner

Dario D'Atri
May 29
2 min read

The Molly Q is a traditional English cutter of the Morecambe Bay Prawner type, built in 1914 by William & Sons Crossfield at the legendary Arnside shipyard on England’s northwest coast. Originally designed for shrimp fishing in Morecambe Bay, her carvel-built hull—crafted from larch planks over oak frames—stands as an exquisite example of early 20th-century Northern British shipbuilding.

Measuring 8.93 meters in length and 2.84 meters in beam, with a gaff cutter rig, Molly Q combines compact proportions with a robust character and surprisingly lively sailing performance. Currently equipped with a Perkins Perama diesel engine, her true essence remains rooted in sail.

Beyond her fishing origins, Molly Q earned a place in maritime history through her racing achievements. She won the Lytham–Isle of Man and Fleetwood–Ramsay regattas, successfully competing against faster and more modern vessels. She was also the subject of a notable rescue by the Barrow Lifeboat, which increased her notoriety throughout the Irish Sea.

For years, she belonged to Mr. Selwyn Hooley, a passionate sailor who, according to the president of the Ribble Cruising Club, “knew no fear” and was a key figure in promoting sailing among young people. Today, fully restored and in excellent condition, Molly Q sails from Port d’Aiguadolç, where she has become one of the living jewels of the Mediterranean’s classic fleet.

Technical Specifications – Molly Q

Name: Molly Q
Type: Morecambe Bay Prawner – Gaff Cutter
Designer/Builder: William & Sons Crossfield
Year of Construction: 1914
Hull: Larch planks over oak frames (carvel-built)
Length Overall: 8.93 m
Beam: 2.84 m
Draft: 1.53 m
Displacement: [Not specified; refer to Gross Tonnage if standardization is desired]
Propulsion: Sail + Perkins Perama diesel engine
Rig: Single mast – Gaff cutter rig