Cutter

Cutter-class ships are fast, nimble vessels commonly used for coastal patrols, reconnaissance, smuggling, courier duties, and in some cases, raiding. Their agility and ease of handling make them ideal for short-range missions and navigating treacherous waters such as reef-laced coastlines, narrow channels, or contested archipelagos.
Most cutters in Tanaria are single- or twin-masted vessels, rigged with fore-and-aft sails. The sleek hull, shallow draft, and tight turning radius allow them to outmaneuver larger warships. Hulls are usually reinforced for speed rather than endurance, favoring light wood or magically-treated materials in more advanced navies.

Propulsion

Sail-powered, rigged fore-and-aft (most commonly with one or two masts). Cutters rely on wind manipulation, tight tack angles, and sharp maneuvering rather than brute force or bulk sail power.

Weapons & Armament

Typically outfitted with a handful of light ballistae, swivel guns, or spellcannons, cutters aren't built for stand-up fights against frigates or galleons but can sting and escape when needed. Some pirate or privateer variants carry hidden weapon compartments.

Armor and defense

• Speed and agility are its first line of defense—cutters are meant to evade, not tank.
• Light armor plating around the prow or gunwales is occasionally added for ramming or deflecting grappling hooks.
• Defensive enchantments (illusory hull, false flag sigils, fog ward) on elite or espionage-class cutters.
• Minimal onboard weaponry—a few ballistae, deck-swivel guns, or arcane emitters like flame belchers or lightning rods.

Used by

• The Horizon's Mercy

Price

8,000–15,000 gold (depending on outfitting, enchantments, and armament) Custom or enchanted variants may exceed 20,000 gold.

Rarity

Uncommon

Width

15–20 feet (4.5–6 meters)

Length

60–80 feet (18–24 meters)

Height

0–70 feet (15–21 meters)

Weight

40–90 tons (loaded)

Speed

8–11 knots average cruising

Complement / Crew

Crew size ranges from 10–25, depending on the cutter’s size and function

Cargo & Passenger Capacity

5–25 tons (about 30,000–50,000 lbs), 6–12 comfortably