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Oxford Shell II rowing just off the Naval academy seawall Annapolis, MD
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Oxford Shell II
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Oxford Shell II
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Oxford Shell II
Oxford Shell II rowing just off the Naval academy seawall Annapolis, MD Thumbnail
Oxford Shell II Thumbnail
Oxford Shell II Thumbnail
Oxford Shell II Thumbnail

Oxford Shell II

Builder Testimonials

Just a great build-it-yourself rowing shell, for recreation, exercise, or racing. Can handle as much chop as the rower can...

  • Skill Level Beginner
  • Estimated Build Time 100 Hours

This project was designed with the beginner in mind. Assembly manuals and documentation are calibrated for builders who are using epoxy and fiberglass for the first time. In kits, little or no trimming and fitting of parts is required.

Build this boat if...

  • You rowed crew in college and would love to continue that on a more recreational level
  • You would like a shell that can be competitive in masters' level racing
  • You know that building your own kit would be cheaper than buying a manufactured one

  • Need for Speed

    For racers seeking escape velocity

  • In-Depth Manual

    Meticulous, fully-illustrated instructions

  • Superior Support

    Tech support is free and unlimited

It's hard to find designs like this in the production world. Combining the strength and light weight of wood-epoxy composites with simplified construction, this one's designed to be fast and fun.

In-Depth Manual

Polished assembly manuals with hundreds of photos and illustrations, evolved and updated over many years. 

Superior Support

Have a question about your project, large or small? You can speak to a boatbuilder at CLC, on the phone or by email. Send questions to info@clcboats.com!

 Build Your Kit
Shipping & Returns

Builders also looked at...

Take One of our Boatbuilding Classes

We offer classes for many of the boats we sell. Teaching sites stretch from Maryland to Washington State and from Maine to California. Click here to find out more.
Oxford Shell II rowing just off the Naval academy seawall Annapolis, MD

Oxford Shell II rowing just off the Naval academy seawall Annapolis, MD

Oxford Shell II
Oxford Shell II
Oxford Shell II
Oxford Shell II rowing just off the Naval academy seawall Annapolis, MD Thumbnail
Oxford Shell II Thumbnail
Oxford Shell II Thumbnail
Oxford Shell II Thumbnail

Specifications

Length
20' 10"
Beam
21"
Hull Weight
40 lbs.
Rower Weight
100 - 275 lbs.
Max Payload
275 lbs.

Performance

Stability

1 out of 5
Very Tippy
Very Stable

Speed

5 out of 5
Cruiser
Racer

Cockpit Room

1 out of 5
Close Fit
Huge Cockpit

Payload

1 out of 5
Day Tripper
Freight Hauler

Ease of Construction

4 out of 5
Requires Patience
Very Easy
Oxford Shell II being rowed in Maryland's Annapolis Harbor.
Oxford Shell II being rowed in Maryland's Annapolis Harbor.

Overview

CLC’s Oxford Shell debuted in 1996, was an instant success, and has been popular since then. Build-it-yourself boat kit technology has come a long way in the last couple of decades and in 2018 we introduced the Oxford Shell II, an evolution of the original.

Intended for recreational racing, workouts, or ocean rowing, the Oxford Shell II is 20'10" long and 21" wide (6.35m x 53cm). It weighs 40 pounds and is pitched a bit more towards speed and performance compared to the original. Reasonably athletic rowers will be able to use it for training. Experienced rowers will find it a competitive shell for "masters" regattas. Without sacrificing smooth-water speed, we went to a lot of trouble to design a hull that can handle waves and chop. Experienced rowers can keep the Oxford Shell II moving in conditions that would send many recreational shells home.

Taking full advantage of wood-epoxy composite techniques, we have been able to eliminate features like the "sheer clamp" while creating a more sophisticated and organic hull shape. Instead of using a drop-in sliding seat, the riggers and sliding seat are integral. Four bolts release the Alden rigger in seconds for easier transportation and storage. With computer-cut "slot-together" parts and an extremely detailed assembly manual, the Oxford Shell II is suitable for first-time boatbuilders.

 

Oxford Shell II Complete Rigger Kit Oxford Shell II Sliding Seat and Footrest Kit
Oxford Shell II Rigger & Parts Oxford Shell II Sliding Seat & Footrest Kit


As of 2022, The Oxford Shell complete kit includes our all-new black anodized aluminum rigger with multi-position mounting plates. This was custom designed for the Oxford Shell by a colleague who is a rowing industry veteran. It is elegant, lightweight, and stiff, yet easy to remove for transport.

 

 

Buying Options

Choose Your Boatbuilding Experience

Building your boat begins with selecting the option that best fits your skill level and shop size.

  1. Select Your Configuration

    Build From a Kit:
    Most builders start with the Base Kit. It’s all there.
    Build From Scratch:
    Build from scratch using our Plans & Manual.
    Build From a Wood Parts Only Kit:
    For those who have their own supply of epoxy, fiberglass, and hardware.
    Order Study Plans or Manuals:
    Like to study up a bit first? Download study plans or a copy of the assembly manual.

  2. Choose Options and Add-Ons

    Additional Components:
    Most performance rowing craft will need a drop-in sliding seat unit and 9’6” sculls. You can also order nonskid decking, storage covers, oar bags, beach dollies, and more.

  3. Get Building!

    Computer-cut kits feature all of the latest tweaks to ease assembly, including slot-together frames, pre-drilled holes for stitching-and-gluing, puzzle joints, and precision in the fitting of parts.

Standard Configuration

Sale
$2,525.00 $2,240.00

The Oxford Shell II Kit includes computer-cut and -drilled ok...

The Oxford Shell II Kit includes computer-cut and -drilled okoume marine plywood parts, epoxy kit, hardware, and fiberglass for the hull. There is a full-color illustrated, step-by-step assembly manual. The Complete kit includes the sliding seat, foot stretchers, riggers, and associated hardware.

The rigger will be drop-shipped directly to the builder, if the kit is being shipped within the 48 contiguous US states. 

Oars are not included with this kit.

 

CLC Oxford Shell II Base Kit Contents

 

Alternative Configurations

Sale
$1,849.00 $1,479.20

The Base Oxford Shell II Kit includes computer-cut and -drill...

The Base Oxford Shell II Kit includes computer-cut and -drilled okoume marine plywood parts, epoxy kit, hardware, and fiberglass for the hull. There is a full-color illustrated, step-by-step assembly manual.  Oars, Rigger Kit with Oarlocks, and Sliding Seat & Footrest hardware are not included with this kit.

 

CLC Oxford Shell II Base Kit Contents

 
$1,249.00

The Oxford Shell II Wood Parts Only Kit includes computer-cut...

The Oxford Shell II Wood Parts Only Kit includes computer-cut and -drilled okoume marine plywood parts for the hull. There is a full-color illustrated, step-by-step assembly manual.

 
$219.00

The plans-and-manual package for the Oxford Shell II include...

The plans-and-manual package for the Oxford Shell II includes full-sized patterns for every part of the hull. Bulkhead locations are marked on the panels, and matching stitch holes are indicated. The full-color instruction manual walks you through purchasing materials, cutting out the parts, and provides step-by-step assembly detail from start to finish.  All dimensions throughout the plans and manual are shown in both metric and standard units.

Plans for a sliding-seat mechanism are NOT included.  The manual indicates what hardware is needed. A rigging package is available from CLC, or the hardware may be purchased from us ala carte.

These plans are for builders who will be building from scratch. Builders working from a kit do not need to purchase this option. 

Oxford Shell II plans

 

Plywood layout for the Oxford Shell

 

Plywood layout for the Oxford Shell II

 
$69.00

This option comprises the latest version of the full-color, s...

Oxford Shell II Manual

This option comprises the latest version of the full-color, spiral-bound 250-page assembly manual. The manual-only option is for builders who want to study the project in detail before taking up their tools.  

The manual includes a materials list, tool list, and of course step-by-step construction details from start to finish. When you come back for the plans or kit, just let us know you have the manual and we'll credit you the manual's cost.

Please note:  While the manual is expansive in detail, the manuals alone lack sufficient detail to fabricate parts.  You will still need to purchase the plans or a pre-cut kit to build the boat. Plans with full-sized patterns are available through the mail. We regret that we are not able to transmit plans or CAD/CAM data digitally.

 
$59.00

This option comprises the latest version of the illustrated a...

Oxford Shell II Manual

This option comprises the latest version of the illustrated assembly manual, emailed in the form of a large PDF, with 8.5" x 11" (216x280mm) pages.  

Please note:  This option is for builders who want to study the process before taking up their tools. The manual includes a materials list, tool list, and of course step-by-step construction details from start to finish.

While the manual is expansive in detail, the manuals alone lack sufficient detail to fabricate parts.  You will still need to purchase the plans or a pre-cut kit to build the boat. Plans are available through the mail. We regret that we are not able to transmit plans or CAD/CAM data digitally.

Upon placing the order, you'll receive an email with a link to the PDF.  Be sure to use a correct email address! If you have filters in place, be sure that emails from "admin@clcboats.com" are not blocked.  

Orders from outside the lower 48 U.S. states will need to wait until the next business day for processing and email delivery of their manual.

Copying or transmitting any part of this document is prohibited, as is posting or displaying any part of it online.  
$2.99

You can get printable study plans for most of your favorite ...

You can get printable study plans for most of your favorite kits and plans by return email --- for just a few dollars! 

When you order a set, you'll receive the study plans emailed in the form of PDFs at 8.5" x 11" (216x280mm).  

These printable drawings (most are two pages) help give a sense of the construction process and a feel for what the full-size plans or kit contain. Please note that a boat can not be built from Study Plans; they are to preview a project in print media; the Study Plans are an excellent broad-strokes look at the process. The subsequent escalation for more information is to order the boat's print instruction manual (where available), which will walk you through the project step-by-step.   

Upon placing the order, you'll receive an email with a link to the PDF.  Be sure to use the correct email address! If you have filters in place, ensure emails from "admin@clcboats.com" are not blocked.

Additional Options

$13.99

Order the Oxford Shell II rigger and parts à la carte. When o...

Order the Oxford Shell II rigger and parts à la carte. When ordering the rigger, please be aware that it does comes with installation mounting plates and hardware, but oarlocks and pins are sold separately.

Order the Footrest Kit here.
$249.00

Instead of using a drop-in sliding seat, the performance orie...

Instead of using a drop-in sliding seat, the performance oriented Oxford Shell II employs an integral rigger and sliding seat system.

This Sliding Seat & Footrest Complete Kit comprises:

  • (2) Pair Seat Supports
  • (1) Seat Undercarriage
  • (1) CNC-cut Unfinished Plywood Seat
  • (1) Seat Riser Fitting Template
  • (1) Pair of Seat Carriage Tracks with fasteners and hardware
  • (1) Pair Foot Straps
  • (1) Pair Heel Cups w/ mounting hardware

Oxford Shell II Rigger & Parts

What builders are saying

Hi CLC crew, I was very pleased with performance of the Oxford Shell II during it's first row. Thanks for a wonderful build experience during the class and all the help and follow up for installation of rowing gear.

Jay O. | VA
Verified Builder

Building the Oxford Shell II was the perfect activity for this recently-retired guy during the pandemic. Now I just need to get a few of my friends here in Washington to build so we can do some racing on Puget Sound. You have a great product and excellent service. Keep up the good work!

John M. | WA
Verified Builder

I wanted to share some photos of my recently finished Oxford II Rowing Shell, BLUE YONDER.  I finished the build on March 11, and took the inaugural row soon after on Lake Quinsigamond in Worcester, Massachusetts.  I was really pleased with the way the boat handled in a 10-knot wind with some light chop on the lake.  It almost seemed as if these were the conditions the boat was designed for.

 I started the build in mid-October and spent 298 hours on the project.  This was my first build, so I took my time and had plenty of "learning experiences" along the way.  Between the manual, Tips for Boatbuilders, and the Boatbuilders Forum most questions I had were answered using these resources.  When I emailed with questions, the CLC staff replied right away and were very helpful.  Overall, I had a great experience building my rowing shell and am grateful to CLC for providing so many resources to let me complete this project.

Chris B. | MA
Verified Builder

Videos

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I order this kit?

Click on the Buying Options tab the top left of this page and follow the directions.

What's the difference between the Oxford Shell I and the new Oxford Shell II?

CLC's first Oxford Shell was launched in 1996. It was skewed towards easy construction by builders working from plans, and was one of the last CLC designs drawn without computer-assisted design. The Oxford Shell II is stiffer, faster, and about 25% lighter. It has a much more sophisticated hull shape but in spite of this is easier to build than the original.

What is the maximum rower height and weight for the Oxford Shell II?

The Oxford Shell II is happiest with rowers weighing between 135 and 275 pounds (61 to 125kg), and for heights up to 6'6" (1.98m).

How stable is the Oxford Shell II? How does the stability of the new version compare with the previous Oxford shell?

The real-world difference probably isn't noticeable, but for added speed the Oxford Shell II is 25mm narrower than the original and about 5% less stable. Nevertheless, the Oxford Shell II is still a "recreational shell" rather than a flighty racing shell. It will appeal to rowers of average athletic ability who are just starting out, but it's fast enough to win head races in the right hands.

How much does this boat weigh and how much can it carry?

The weight and payload of this boat, along with other statistics such length and beam, can be found under Specs in the Specifications section, which is just below the lead image seen at the top of this page.

Is the Oxford Shell suitable for other uses? (IE, kayak, etc.)

No, this hull shape is 100% optimized for sliding seat rowing. Attempting to use the boat as a kayak, for example, will result in disappointment. Nor would the Oxford Shell make the good basis for a multihull sailboat, etc.

How do you recommend transporting the Oxford Shell II?

Unlike a fragile racing shell, you can transport the Oxford Shell just as you would a kayak of similar length. A pair of roof racks on your car is all you need, even if they're pretty close together! (Just add bow and stern lines if you have a compact car.)

Is the Oxford Shell II wing rigger removable for car topping?

Yes. Four sturdy clips hold the riggers in place on the Oxford Shell, and can be popped loose in moments for easy transport.

Do I need the Oxford Shell II hardware right away?

No. You can build the Oxford Shell hull first then come back for the hardware at the end.

Where can I purchase the oars for the Oxford Shell II?

Only 9'6" oars (or sculls) intended for sliding seat rowing will work for the Oxford Shell. Chesapeake Light Craft stocks the correct oars, here.

Can a drop-in rowing unit be used in Oxford Shell II?

No, there is no provision for a drop-in unit on the Oxford Shell. Too many structural modifications would be necessary.

How skilled do I need to be to build my own Oxford Shell II?

The Oxford Shell II is intended for patient first-time boatbuilders, especially those working from a pre-cut kit. We have gone to tremendous lengths to simplify assembly without compromising the boat's appearance or function. Builders starting from scratch should be comfortable working from plans and using a variety of power tools.

How long does it take to build the Oxford Shell II?

Budget around 80-100 hours of hands-on time for a completely outfitted Oxford Shell II with a nice finish.

How much room do I need to build Oxford Shell II?

Ideally you'll have a space about 10 feet by 24 feet (3m x 7m) to build an Oxford Shell.

Can I build the Oxford Shell II in one of your build-your-own classes?

Absolutely! The Oxford Shell classes get you through the major construction process, which includes sealing the hull with epoxy. You'll handle the final epoxy work, finish preparation, painting/varnishing, and final rigging at home. See our class schedule here.

What are the plans and manual like if I want to build an Oxford Shell II from scratch instead of from a kit?

Oxford Shell plans comprise full-sized paper patterns for every part in the boat, except for the store-bought rigging hardware. This manual includes hundreds of step-by-step photos and diagrams covering the entire build.

Can you send me the plans digitally?

Sorry, but until digital rights management technology for marine architectural work catches up to that used for books and music, we are unable to transmit digital plans. Currently, only study plans and manuals can be sent digitally.

Classes

Take One of our Boatbuilding Classes

We offer classes for many of the boats we sell. Teaching sites stretch from Maryland to Washington State and from Maine to California. Click here to find out more.

View Classes

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