There are boats you buy and boats you inherit a legacy with. The Pelin Shikaree is firmly in the second camp.
Designed by Frank Pelin, whose plans first came to prominence in 1965, the Shikaree was built primarily through the mid-1970s as a purpose-built offshore game fishing launch. Pelin was never a glamour name in the way that Farr or Young were, but he was, as one boatbuilder put it, “everyman’s designer.” The Shikaree is perhaps the clearest expression of that philosophy: no-nonsense, built to fish, built to last.
Construction is double-diagonal kauri, glassed over, and the result is a hull that has proven itself across decades of hard offshore use. These are not delicate boats. They were built by professionals for serious work, and many are still doing exactly that fifty years on.
What you get
Shikarees typically run between 11.6m and 13.2m, with some examples extended beyond 12.5m. Below decks, expect six to eight berths across two cabins, a full galley with gas oven and fridge, plus toilet and shower. Headroom is generous, with at least one example offering 6’4″ standing height throughout. Cockpits are roomy and purpose-designed for game fishing, with most boats game-rigged and fitted with a game chair as standard. Flybridge enclosures are common, and the better-maintained examples carry a full suite of modern electronics.
Power varies across the fleet. Twin Ford Dover diesels were a common fit, with cruise speeds of 8 to 12 knots. Higher-spec examples run twin Cummins 6BTA 315hp diesels, while the top of the market includes a Caterpillar 375hp single. Most are shaft drive.
What to look for
Kauri is a forgiving timber but it rewards attention. Check the glassing carefully for delamination, particularly around the keel and any areas that have been extended or modified. Engine hours matter less than maintenance history on boats of this vintage, so ask for service records. Survey is essential.
What you’ll pay
Current asking prices range from around $45,000 for a well-used 12.5m example up to $159,000 for a well-presented, fully equipped 13.2m vessel. For an offshore-capable game fishing launch with genuine accommodation, that remains remarkable value.
Available on TradeABoat
Pelin Shikarees don’t come up often, but when they do, they’re worth a serious look. These kauri classics were built to fish hard and last long, and fifty years on, most are still doing both. Learn more on TradeABoat.
Check out the full range of Pelin boat’s for sale on TradeABoat and Boating New Zealand.
