Gotta agree - find yourself an old, usable fiberglass sailboat. There are
plenty of O'Days and other daysailers in peoples' backyards, begging for
use. A year ago I found a 21' New Haven cat-ketch sharpie, ready to go
except for trailer tires & bearings, for $750. Plenty of 20-24'
"weekenders" are out there for less than $2K.

You might find somebody willing to "lend" you a boat for a season or two (or
more) if you clean it up, paint the bottom, make minor repairs, and agree
they can use it a couple times. If you were in my neighborhood (mid-coast
Maine), I'd make that offer right now. In fact, send me a note off-group
(remove the send-no-spam- from my address); maybe we can make a deal.

No way you can build a boat for less money than a serviceable used
production hull. Even with a blue tarp sail.

Once you've got some experience, and have confirmed that no production boat
will meet your specific requirements, desires, or burning desire to build,
THEN think about building. And then, start with Bolger's Teal.

Curtis


"Jim B." writes:
Ok. I live in a small coastal town in New England where the Dory was
invented (at least that is what I have read). Ever since we moved here,
I
have wanted a boat. But we really can't afford one. It is very low on
the
financial needs list. But I have two kids (5 and 7 yr old) and I think
it
would be great to have them grow up sailing with me and maybe even on
their
own. But enough with the hopes and dreams....

The above says it all.

If you want those kids to go sailing before they are adults, BUY a boat
and
find a 2nd job to help pay for it.

Just the observation of someone who is building a boat.