Peter Duck is a sailing boat that features prominently in the Swallows and Amazons series of children's books written by Arthur Ransome. The boat is named after a fictional character, Peter Duck, who is a retired pirate and a friend of the children in the series.
In the books, Peter Duck is a 28-foot wooden sailing boat with a gaff rig. It is described as a sturdy and reliable vessel, capable of withstanding various adventures and challenges. The boat is often used by the children to explore the lakes and rivers of the English Lake District and engage in exciting escapades.
Peter Duck is owned by the Walker family, who are the main characters in the series. The children, John, Susan, Titty, and Roger, along with their friends, often sail Peter Duck to various islands and locations, where they create imaginative stories and play games.
The boat is depicted as having a cozy cabin with bunks and storage space for provisions. It is also equipped with a small galley for cooking meals during their expeditions. Peter Duck is portrayed as a reliable and seaworthy vessel, allowing the children to navigate through storms, encounter pirates, and solve mysteries.
The character of Peter Duck and the sailing boat have become iconic in children's literature, representing the spirit of adventure and exploration. The books have inspired many young readers to develop an interest in sailing and outdoor activities.
In real life, there are no actual boats named Peter Duck that match the description in the books. However, the popularity of the series has led to the creation of replica boats and models inspired by Peter Duck. These replicas allow fans of the books to experience a taste of the adventures described in the Swallows and Amazons series.
