Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

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....

A little background on potentially pertinent skills...I did some sailing as
a teen in a tiny sailboat called a Laser (??) and I loved it but only had
the chance a few times. My woodworking/building experiences consist of shop
class in 8th grade and 3 years of drafting class in high school. These days
I do not own any power saws. Once in a blue moon I might pick up my hand
saw and cut a 2x4 for some reason. As for other experiences, I majored in
and taught high school physics. Eventually, I found myself in a computer
tech job.

I have been trawling the internet for plans, advice, building materials
costs, building journals, etc. I actually started this little obsession 2
years ago but then it went away for a while. My wife is not sold in this
idea at all. Anyway, this is what information I've got so far:

-The boat has got to have an LOA of 17' or less. I want to build it in my
garage and keep it there for storage (haven't considered the length of a
trailer though). It is a two car garage and is 17'10" in length. One of
the doors is 5'10" in height, and 7'8" in width.
-I want the boat to hold two adults and 2 kids.
-I want a sailboat not a powerboat.
-I think I should build a small boat first.
-I also think it should be a plywood boat. I would prefer the first boat use
less than 6 sheets of 8'x4' plywood. It looks like the initial big cost
will be in buying plywood sheets and around here that looks like $50 a sheet
for marine ply. So if I could do this with 4 sheets to start the first
boat, then if my wife saw me build a cool boat with 4 sheets, then I could
go bigger in the years to come. (At least it sounds like a good plan...)
-I realize the sail will also cost. So, adding oars to the first small boat
might be the way to go and experimenting with plastic tarp material for
cheap.
-Plans I have considered for the first little boat:
*Some of stevenprojects.com plans
(http://www.stevproj.com/SailDingh.html) as well as the 11' skipjack
Stevenson published an a book in the 70's Sailboats You Can Build.
*Optimist Dinghy (http://www.optiworld.org/ioda-intro.html)
*Canoe (but I do not think I want to do this one since I couldn't
sail it) - http://www.bateau2.com/free/cheapcanoe.htm

-Plans I have considered for the bigger boat:
*Weekender http://www.stevproj.com/PocketYachts.html
*Bolger's Micro - This one seemed better then the Weekender
http://www.boatdesign.com/micro/
*Sztrandek (probably not a good one since the plans are free and
there will be no support)
http://www.zeglarstwo.3miasto.pl/sztraeng/sztrengl.html

Please comment and advise. I am looking for boat plan recommendations,
similar experiences, tips, tricks, help with making it cheap,

--Jim B.

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

"Jim B." wrote:
snip the background


-The boat has got to have an LOA of 17' or less. I want to build it in my
garage and keep it there for storage (haven't considered the length of a
trailer though). It is a two car garage and is 17'10" in length. One of
the doors is 5'10" in height, and 7'8" in width.
-I want the boat to hold two adults and 2 kids.
-I want a sailboat not a powerboat.
-I think I should build a small boat first.
-I also think it should be a plywood boat. I would prefer the first boat use
less than 6 sheets of 8'x4' plywood. It looks like the initial big cost
will be in buying plywood sheets and around here that looks like $50 a sheet
for marine ply. So if I could do this with 4 sheets to start the first
boat, then if my wife saw me build a cool boat with 4 sheets, then I could
go bigger in the years to come. (At least it sounds like a good plan...)
-I realize the sail will also cost. So, adding oars to the first small boat
might be the way to go and experimenting with plastic tarp material for
cheap.


Why not build a dory first? My father in law (very limited skills) builds
classic double ended Dorys all the time. He even has a sail kit for them.

I have one of these w/o sails that I use to get out to my mooring here on Cape
Crud. I row out with 2 adults and 2 small children (5 & 2). I keep it on the
beach w/o oars.

You can email me in private for more info if you want.

tailgunner at nbrigham.com


--
Tailgunner
http://boat.nbrigham.com

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

Well, for starters...

http://agott.hypermart.net/101main.html

some basics on wooden boat construction.

http://hometown.aol.com/polysail/HTML/oldboats.htm

A source of various older designs for smaller wooden boats.
Varied from about 10 to 20 feet. You might find something
you like there.

Good luck, and Happy Holidays!

Chris

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

"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.

HTH


--
Lew

S/A: Challenge, The Bullet Proof Boat, (Under Construction in the Southland)
Visit: http://home.earthlink.net/~lewhodgett for Pictures

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

Another option. If you go up and down the coast, you might be able to find
an abandoned boat to refurbish. Not sure about up there, but in various
coastal areas you might find a boat with a hole below waterline, or similar
defect that could return the boat to operating condition with minor work.

Once saw a perfectly good jetski sitting here on our beach, only needed
minor engine repairs.

You'd be surprised what some people throw away.

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

Check here for plans
http://www.clarkcraft.com/cgi-local/...g=019&cart_id=


"Jim B." wrote in message
news:m8iGb.445165$Dw6.1352034@attbi_s02...
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....

A little background on potentially pertinent skills...I did some sailing
as
a teen in a tiny sailboat called a Laser (??) and I loved it but only had
the chance a few times. My woodworking/building experiences consist of
shop
class in 8th grade and 3 years of drafting class in high school. These
days
I do not own any power saws. Once in a blue moon I might pick up my hand
saw and cut a 2x4 for some reason. As for other experiences, I majored in
and taught high school physics. Eventually, I found myself in a computer
tech job.

I have been trawling the internet for plans, advice, building materials
costs, building journals, etc. I actually started this little obsession 2
years ago but then it went away for a while. My wife is not sold in this
idea at all. Anyway, this is what information I've got so far:

-The boat has got to have an LOA of 17' or less. I want to build it in my
garage and keep it there for storage (haven't considered the length of a
trailer though). It is a two car garage and is 17'10" in length. One of
the doors is 5'10" in height, and 7'8" in width.
-I want the boat to hold two adults and 2 kids.
-I want a sailboat not a powerboat.
-I think I should build a small boat first.
-I also think it should be a plywood boat. I would prefer the first boat
use
less than 6 sheets of 8'x4' plywood. It looks like the initial big cost
will be in buying plywood sheets and around here that looks like $50 a
sheet
for marine ply. So if I could do this with 4 sheets to start the first
boat, then if my wife saw me build a cool boat with 4 sheets, then I
could
go bigger in the years to come. (At least it sounds like a good plan...)
-I realize the sail will also cost. So, adding oars to the first small
boat
might be the way to go and experimenting with plastic tarp material for
cheap.
-Plans I have considered for the first little boat:
*Some of stevenprojects.com plans
(http://www.stevproj.com/SailDingh.html) as well as the 11' skipjack
Stevenson published an a book in the 70's Sailboats You Can Build.
*Optimist Dinghy (http://www.optiworld.org/ioda-intro.html)
*Canoe (but I do not think I want to do this one since I couldn't
sail it) - http://www.bateau2.com/free/cheapcanoe.htm

-Plans I have considered for the bigger boat:
*Weekender http://www.stevproj.com/PocketYachts.html
*Bolger's Micro - This one seemed better then the Weekender
http://www.boatdesign.com/micro/
*Sztrandek (probably not a good one since the plans are free and
there will be no support)
http://www.zeglarstwo.3miasto.pl/sztraeng/sztrengl.html

Please comment and advise. I am looking for boat plan recommendations,
similar experiences, tips, tricks, help with making it cheap,

--Jim B.






---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.553 / Virus Database: 345 - Release Date: 18/12/2003

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

What about http://www.boatplans-online.com/prod....php?prod=CV16 or
something similar? The Caravelle type of boat sounds right down your alley,
and it's easy to build since it's stitch-n-tape (common tools, common
skills).

Brian

--
My boat project: http://www.advantagecomposites.com/tongass


"Jim B." wrote in message
news:m8iGb.445165$Dw6.1352034@attbi_s02...
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....

A little background on potentially pertinent skills...I did some sailing
as
a teen in a tiny sailboat called a Laser (??) and I loved it but only had
the chance a few times. My woodworking/building experiences consist of
shop
class in 8th grade and 3 years of drafting class in high school. These
days
I do not own any power saws. Once in a blue moon I might pick up my hand
saw and cut a 2x4 for some reason. As for other experiences, I majored in
and taught high school physics. Eventually, I found myself in a computer
tech job.

I have been trawling the internet for plans, advice, building materials
costs, building journals, etc. I actually started this little obsession 2
years ago but then it went away for a while. My wife is not sold in this
idea at all. Anyway, this is what information I've got so far:

-The boat has got to have an LOA of 17' or less. I want to build it in my
garage and keep it there for storage (haven't considered the length of a
trailer though). It is a two car garage and is 17'10" in length. One of
the doors is 5'10" in height, and 7'8" in width.
-I want the boat to hold two adults and 2 kids.
-I want a sailboat not a powerboat.
-I think I should build a small boat first.
-I also think it should be a plywood boat. I would prefer the first boat
use
less than 6 sheets of 8'x4' plywood. It looks like the initial big cost
will be in buying plywood sheets and around here that looks like $50 a
sheet
for marine ply. So if I could do this with 4 sheets to start the first
boat, then if my wife saw me build a cool boat with 4 sheets, then I
could
go bigger in the years to come. (At least it sounds like a good plan...)
-I realize the sail will also cost. So, adding oars to the first small
boat
might be the way to go and experimenting with plastic tarp material for
cheap.
-Plans I have considered for the first little boat:
*Some of stevenprojects.com plans
(http://www.stevproj.com/SailDingh.html) as well as the 11' skipjack
Stevenson published an a book in the 70's Sailboats You Can Build.
*Optimist Dinghy (http://www.optiworld.org/ioda-intro.html)
*Canoe (but I do not think I want to do this one since I couldn't
sail it) - http://www.bateau2.com/free/cheapcanoe.htm

-Plans I have considered for the bigger boat:
*Weekender http://www.stevproj.com/PocketYachts.html
*Bolger's Micro - This one seemed better then the Weekender
http://www.boatdesign.com/micro/
*Sztrandek (probably not a good one since the plans are free and
there will be no support)
http://www.zeglarstwo.3miasto.pl/sztraeng/sztrengl.html

Please comment and advise. I am looking for boat plan recommendations,
similar experiences, tips, tricks, help with making it cheap,

--Jim B.

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

"Brian D" wrote in message
news:y3lGb.649504$Fm2.576276@attbi_s04...

My boat project: http://www.advantagecomposites.com/tongass

If nothing else, I salute you for merging tongue and ass into a new word.

;-)

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

Thanks! Haha ...no really, I'll be using this boat in SE Alaska (or so I
intend). ALL of SE Alaska is the Tongass National Forest and where the
Tongass natives come from. Hence the name. I must admit though, that I
sometimes wonder if I shouldn't use a different name ...I'm sure I'll hear
the same remark again (although you win the prize for being the first to say
it out loud...)

Brian

"Chris" wrote in message
. com...

"Brian D" wrote in message
news:y3lGb.649504$Fm2.576276@attbi_s04...

My boat project: http://www.advantagecomposites.com/tongass

If nothing else, I salute you for merging tongue and ass into a new word.

;-)

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

Jim:

Here's another lead - Chesapeake Light Craft. Their specialty is
kayaks but they also make some rowing and sailing craft. Very much
geared to the first time builder. They use the "stitch and glue"
method of construction - a great way to get started. Check out this
little sailing pram -
http://www.chesapeakelightcraft.com/...stportpram.php

Eric

"Jim B." wrote in message news:m8iGb.445165$Dw6.1352034@attbi_s02...
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....

A little background on potentially pertinent skills...I did some sailing as
a teen in a tiny sailboat called a Laser (??) and I loved it but only had
the chance a few times. My woodworking/building experiences consist of shop
class in 8th grade and 3 years of drafting class in high school. These days
I do not own any power saws. Once in a blue moon I might pick up my hand
saw and cut a 2x4 for some reason. As for other experiences, I majored in
and taught high school physics. Eventually, I found myself in a computer
tech job.

I have been trawling the internet for plans, advice, building materials
costs, building journals, etc. I actually started this little obsession 2
years ago but then it went away for a while. My wife is not sold in this
idea at all. Anyway, this is what information I've got so far:

-The boat has got to have an LOA of 17' or less. I want to build it in my
garage and keep it there for storage (haven't considered the length of a
trailer though). It is a two car garage and is 17'10" in length. One of
the doors is 5'10" in height, and 7'8" in width.
-I want the boat to hold two adults and 2 kids.
-I want a sailboat not a powerboat.
-I think I should build a small boat first.
-I also think it should be a plywood boat. I would prefer the first boat use
less than 6 sheets of 8'x4' plywood. It looks like the initial big cost
will be in buying plywood sheets and around here that looks like $50 a sheet
for marine ply. So if I could do this with 4 sheets to start the first
boat, then if my wife saw me build a cool boat with 4 sheets, then I could
go bigger in the years to come. (At least it sounds like a good plan...)
-I realize the sail will also cost. So, adding oars to the first small boat
might be the way to go and experimenting with plastic tarp material for
cheap.
-Plans I have considered for the first little boat:
*Some of stevenprojects.com plans
(http://www.stevproj.com/SailDingh.html) as well as the 11' skipjack
Stevenson published an a book in the 70's Sailboats You Can Build.
*Optimist Dinghy (http://www.optiworld.org/ioda-intro.html)
*Canoe (but I do not think I want to do this one since I couldn't
sail it) - http://www.bateau2.com/free/cheapcanoe.htm

-Plans I have considered for the bigger boat:
*Weekender http://www.stevproj.com/PocketYachts.html
*Bolger's Micro - This one seemed better then the Weekender
http://www.boatdesign.com/micro/
*Sztrandek (probably not a good one since the plans are free and
there will be no support)
http://www.zeglarstwo.3miasto.pl/sztraeng/sztrengl.html

Please comment and advise. I am looking for boat plan recommendations,
similar experiences, tips, tricks, help with making it cheap,

--Jim B.

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

"Brian D" wrote in message
news:h5qGb.640037$HS4.4639233@attbi_s01...
Thanks! Haha ...no really, I'll be using this boat in SE Alaska (or so I
intend). ALL of SE Alaska is the Tongass National Forest and where the
Tongass natives come from. Hence the name. I must admit though, that I
sometimes wonder if I shouldn't use a different name ...I'm sure I'll hear
the same remark again (although you win the prize for being the first to
say
it out loud...)

Brian

Thankyou, thankyou!

Takes a bow

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

I like shell boats. Nice boats and made for beginners.
http://www.shellboats.com/

Donald

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

The list of requirement you have so far is a good start.
It looks like you need to set yourself a budget next.
Then look at the cost of materials at local suppliers.
Glues and fastners can cost more than the plywood.

I'd repeat my advice to use some geometry or a compute program to estimate
teh size of boat you'll need. I desinged my own first boat, a simple flat
bottom skiff, and it turned out to be just what I needed.

Of the ready made plans I'd recommend taking a look at the Dobbler 16 at
www.jonesboats.com. I've read both of Jones' boatbuilding books where he
describes a plywood and a fibreglass version he has built.

--
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
William R Watt National Capital FreeNet Ottawa's free community network
homepage: www.ncf.ca/~ag384/top.htm
warning: non-freenet email must have "notspam" in subject or it's returned

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

There is no such thing as a perfectly good jetski

Chris wrote:

Another option. If you go up and down the coast, you might be able to find
an abandoned boat to refurbish. Not sure about up there, but in various
coastal areas you might find a boat with a hole below waterline, or similar
defect that could return the boat to operating condition with minor work.

Once saw a perfectly good jetski sitting here on our beach, only needed
minor engine repairs.

You'd be surprised what some people throw away.

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

"Scott Vaughn" wrote in message
...
There is no such thing as a perfectly good jetski

Perhaps, but that's beside the point. Disposable society does have it's
advantages if you look hard enough.

;-)

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

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.

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

There is nothing radical, extreme, strange or far-fetched about this
post.
In fact it appears to offer a bunch of horse-sense - with a neat slosh
of Christmas kindness thrown in for flavor. I'd go with it.

Brian W

On Thu, 25 Dec 2003 14:31:34 -0500, "Sal's Dad"
wrote:

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.

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

I'm a fan of the Stevensons' designs myself having built their MiniCup.
There's a strong builder support community for them at http://www.byyb.org -
which include several Skipjack builders. Bolger builders have also built
themselves a strong community as well.

Based on your criteria, you need to decide what compromises you are willing
to make. Obviously you can pick up a used boat as many would suggest
although I personally believe that it is possible to build a boat for less
than you can buy and refurbish a used one for - if you are building a small
boat and if you don't worry about the level of finish. You also need to
honestly think about how you are going to use the boat - is your entire
family actually likely to want to participate and making a boat that will
safely hold four people makes it quite a bit bigger boat than one that will
hold just yourself or you and one child. It also depends on how large said
people are.

One simple design to consider is David Beede's "Summer Breeze" -
http://www.simplicityboats.com/summerbreezetemp.html You could also
consider building yourself something like that, or even one of Gavin Atkin's
"Mouse Boats" - http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mouseboats/ just to get
something to get you on the water.

Additionally, you need to consider sea conditions - you say you are on the
coast - if the sea is rough at all, you will need a much more stable boat
than many of the easily built plans can accommodate - most of them,
including the ones I mentioned - are intended for calm inland waters.

No matter what your decision - good luck.

--
Andrew Butchart

http://www.floatingbear.ca



"Jim B." wrote in message
news:m8iGb.445165$Dw6.1352034@attbi_s02...
Ok. I live in a small coastal town in New England where the Dory was
snip

Please comment and advise. I am looking for boat plan recommendations,
similar experiences, tips, tricks, help with making it cheap,

--Jim B.

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

First of all, thank you all. Wow! I will be posting to this group again;
hopefully with information for others from what I will be learning. I have
a lot to think about. By the way, I mentioned that my wife was not sold on
this idea; however, for Christmas she bought me a wood model sailboat kit.
I went a little "overboard" on the $2 kit with a photo journal of the
building and finishing process. Now in response to those involved in this
thread:

Tailgunner: I like the Dory idea too since I live in the town where one of
the designs were invented. I will be emailing you.

Chris: Thanks for the links. I have bookmarked the Intro to Wooden
Boatbuilding. I found that link to old boats before. Regarding your second
post ... I just don't think I will find an abandoned broken boat laying
around on the beach BUT...I'll keep my eyes peeled, stranger things have
happened.

Lew: I just can't slap down the money to buy a whole boat now. Even first
jobs are hard to come by in the tech industry these days and a 2nd job would
mean even less time with the kids. And I would rather not charge one
either. I am thinking that by building it, I get the joy of building as
part of the hobby. Plus I will be buying the boat a piece at a time and I
could even stop and restart as finances permit.

Curtis: I know you agree with Lew; however, your idea/potential offer is a
great in-between comprimise (buy/rent vs build vs barter). I will
definetely be emailing you. This could give me some experience before the
real building project is lauched.

Brian W: I agree.

Habbi: Clark Crafts looks to have a wide selection plus I can price compare
boat plan costs. Thanks.

Brian D.: I am seriously considering the Caravelle boat. Thanks for this
link.

Eric: I will check the rest of the Chesapeake Light Craft site. The pram
you mentioned does not look like it will hold 2 adults and two kids.

Donald: The shellboats.com site looks like it is catering to people like
me. I will continue to investigate there as well. Thanks.

William R Watt: I know I need to fix the budget. My wife is a very
pragmatic women and this is what she wants to see (after I repair a few
things around the house). I found the jonesboats.com site although I did
not take a good look at that Dobbler 16 until you posted. Also, looks like
you sell boat designs according to your website. I hope to see replies from
you again in my future posts here.

Andrew Butchart: I agree with you. I know that I will most likely be
taking me and my two kids on the boat often (as I alluded to in my first
post, "The best-laid plans o' mice an' men gang aft a-gley." -Robert Burns)
I can relate to your website. I know that I will need a few sailing
lessons. In terms of the sailing environment, I will probably stick to the
nearby harbor rather than sailing the high seas until I feel (and am deemed
by some authority) that I am a competent sailor. By the way, I am seriously
considering the Summer Breeze as well.

--Jim B.

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

On Wed, 24 Dec 2003 17:04:36 +0000, Lew Hodgett wrote:


"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.

HTH

I donno...when I was about 8 my dad built a boat for my sister and I to ply the
waters of the slough on the farm. It wasn't much: just an 8ft punt made with a
sheet of plywood and some 1x12s. Leaked like a sieve. But it was the most
impressive memory I have of my Dad, and I remember it fondly to this day.

Build an inexpensive, flat-bottomed skiff with your kids' help. It may not sail
as well as a production boat, but the memories will be worth it.

Lloyd Sumpter

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

Lew and others nailed it: If you want to sail, _buy_ a boat. If you want
a vocation building something, _build_ a boat.

Hang out with boat people, hit all the harbors within an hour's drive.
Deals on "TLC boats" start at less than $500 for 25' glass (running
motor is extra), useable sail gear, no obnoxious smells etc below. Take
somebody who works on boats to evaluate stuff. Bare bones, figure to
spend another $2-300 to keep the CG and your SO happy. Think marine flea
market next spring for the missing details. Forget woodies (eg folk
boats) until you know a more about the "self vs. boat vs. time vs.
family" thing.

Sail tape can make most sails work for quite a while. You can scull or
row a boat that size, so maybe skip the motor depending on your
requirements and _immediate_ plans. If you gotta have power, a 2hp
outboard with long shaft should do it. Trailer boats come _slightly_
higher with trailers. Fix the trailer first. A TLC boat will give you
plenty of boat building experience with a real chance you'll actually
get to go boating.

Plan the family thing so they all love it. Play dirty - let your SO pick
the color you paint the boat, and use any similar sleazy tactics you can
think of. Don't go out with family on less than a perfect day: go short
and go quiet and come back a little early. Skip the "authentic" stuff,
and just make sure the coleman cooler has ice for lunch and snacks, and
that you get back without scaring anybody. Freshen up your skills - take
a free CG Auxilliary sailing course, and hitch a ride on some beer can
races. If you can arrange it, keep the boat in the water during the
season. Innumerable embarrassments occur at launching ramps that take
years to live down. If you're on a mooring and the harbor provides taxi
service, use it. Less chance to screw up. First impression count. Take
no chances, stack the deck, make sure they have fun.

Then trade up next year when you know what matters to you. g

Rufus

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

Woo-hoo, the advice just keeps getting better.

Sneakier, but better

Brian W

On Mon, 29 Dec 2003 00:24:47 GMT, Rufus
wrote:

Lew and others nailed it: If you want to sail, _buy_ a boat. If you want
a vocation building something, _build_ a boat.

Hang out with boat people, hit all the harbors within an hour's drive.
Deals on "TLC boats" start at less than $500 for 25' glass (running
motor is extra), useable sail gear, no obnoxious smells etc below. Take
somebody who works on boats to evaluate stuff. Bare bones, figure to
spend another $2-300 to keep the CG and your SO happy. Think marine flea
market next spring for the missing details. Forget woodies (eg folk
boats) until you know a more about the "self vs. boat vs. time vs.
family" thing.

Sail tape can make most sails work for quite a while. You can scull or
row a boat that size, so maybe skip the motor depending on your
requirements and _immediate_ plans. If you gotta have power, a 2hp
outboard with long shaft should do it. Trailer boats come _slightly_
higher with trailers. Fix the trailer first. A TLC boat will give you
plenty of boat building experience with a real chance you'll actually
get to go boating.

Plan the family thing so they all love it. Play dirty - let your SO pick
the color you paint the boat, and use any similar sleazy tactics you can
think of. Don't go out with family on less than a perfect day: go short
and go quiet and come back a little early. Skip the "authentic" stuff,
and just make sure the coleman cooler has ice for lunch and snacks, and
that you get back without scaring anybody. Freshen up your skills - take
a free CG Auxilliary sailing course, and hitch a ride on some beer can
races. If you can arrange it, keep the boat in the water during the
season. Innumerable embarrassments occur at launching ramps that take
years to live down. If you're on a mooring and the harbor provides taxi
service, use it. Less chance to screw up. First impression count. Take
no chances, stack the deck, make sure they have fun.

Then trade up next year when you know what matters to you. g

Rufus

Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

"Jim B." ) writes:
... I just don't think I will find an abandoned broken boat laying
around on the beach BUT...I'll keep my eyes peeled, stranger things have
happened.

maybe after a storm?

William R Watt: .... Also, looks like
you sell boat designs according to your website.

nope. for what its worth everything on my website is absolutley free.

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Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

Deals on "TLC boats" start at less than $500 for 25' glass (running

.. If you gotta have power, a 2hp
outboard with long shaft should do it.

if a person is going to put a 2 hp outboard on a 25 ft fibreglass boat I'd
also suggest a good anchor with a long rope and chain. in any kind of
wind, waves, current, or some combination, the motor won't do much. better
to throw out the anchor and wait. I had a 3 hp outboard on a 21 ft
mahogony strip sailboat (very light boat for its size) and it wasn't worth
spit unless the wind and water were quiet. a paddle won't do much. maybe a
pair of oars. a small motor is okay when you run out of wind but not if
you're trying to motor into or out of a dock or mooring in other
conditions. I used to sail in and out among the moored boats in all
conditions except no wind. Only used the motor when the wind died. ehen
the motor is used the centreboard has to be halfway down, if there is a
centreboard, for directional stability.

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Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

Yup, that's the call.

Take the CG sailing course, find out about life vests and anchors and
radios and man overboard and fog horns... all that good stuff. Get
enough good motor (one that costs enough to maybe run when you need it)
to get you back in. I've moved a Westsail32 with a 2-1/2hp outboard on
the side-tied dingy. Moved kinda slow, but it got there no problem.
Treat the boat and the water with a lot respect and take it slow and
responsibly. Take a low key buddy who sails regularly along the first
few times. Stuff like that.

But you don't need $20k into it to do it right.

Rufus


William R. Watt wrote:

Deals on "TLC boats" start at less than $500 for 25' glass (running


.. If you gotta have power, a 2hp
outboard with long shaft should do it.


if a person is going to put a 2 hp outboard on a 25 ft fibreglass boat I'd
also suggest a good anchor with a long rope and chain. in any kind of
wind, waves, current, or some combination, the motor won't do much. better
to throw out the anchor and wait. I had a 3 hp outboard on a 21 ft
mahogony strip sailboat (very light boat for its size) and it wasn't worth
spit unless the wind and water were quiet. a paddle won't do much. maybe a
pair of oars. a small motor is okay when you run out of wind but not if
you're trying to motor into or out of a dock or mooring in other
conditions. I used to sail in and out among the moored boats in all
conditions except no wind. Only used the motor when the wind died. ehen
the motor is used the centreboard has to be halfway down, if there is a
centreboard, for directional stability.

--
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
William R Watt National Capital FreeNet Ottawa's free community network
homepage: www.ncf.ca/~ag384/top.htm
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Must build a boat - looking for guidance
 

Jim,

I am also having a dilemma of similar substance and financial restraint. I
do believe it can be done though...with advice from people all over the
world (I am from Australia) and lots of questions to the right people in
chat rooms for boat building etc there are lots if you look.

I am an ex boat and aircraft builder, so am in the position of knowing what
I want and how to do it (not used ply before - which is what I will be
building my boat in) but have no money to buy the stuff DOH!.

I am now scouring the usual places where "stuff" can be found
cheap...building sites, second hand places etc.

I would suggest though, that you invest in decent quality plans with "how
to" stuff included with the plan package. These are generally written for
people with little or no skills in boat building (no offence :-) and are
very good for the first time builder.

Good luck with your search

Rod.

"Jim B." wrote in message
news:m8iGb.445165$Dw6.1352034@attbi_s02...
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....

A little background on potentially pertinent skills...I did some sailing
as
a teen in a tiny sailboat called a Laser (??) and I loved it but only had
the chance a few times. My woodworking/building experiences consist of
shop
class in 8th grade and 3 years of drafting class in high school. These
days
I do not own any power saws. Once in a blue moon I might pick up my hand
saw and cut a 2x4 for some reason. As for other experiences, I majored in
and taught high school physics. Eventually, I found myself in a computer
tech job.

I have been trawling the internet for plans, advice, building materials
costs, building journals, etc. I actually started this little obsession 2
years ago but then it went away for a while. My wife is not sold in this
idea at all. Anyway, this is what information I've got so far:

-The boat has got to have an LOA of 17' or less. I want to build it in my
garage and keep it there for storage (haven't considered the length of a
trailer though). It is a two car garage and is 17'10" in length. One of
the doors is 5'10" in height, and 7'8" in width.
-I want the boat to hold two adults and 2 kids.
-I want a sailboat not a powerboat.
-I think I should build a small boat first.
-I also think it should be a plywood boat. I would prefer the first boat
use
less than 6 sheets of 8'x4' plywood. It looks like the initial big cost
will be in buying plywood sheets and around here that looks like $50 a
sheet
for marine ply. So if I could do this with 4 sheets to start the first
boat, then if my wife saw me build a cool boat with 4 sheets, then I
could
go bigger in the years to come. (At least it sounds like a good plan...)
-I realize the sail will also cost. So, adding oars to the first small
boat
might be the way to go and experimenting with plastic tarp material for
cheap.
-Plans I have considered for the first little boat:
*Some of stevenprojects.com plans
(http://www.stevproj.com/SailDingh.html) as well as the 11' skipjack
Stevenson published an a book in the 70's Sailboats You Can Build.
*Optimist Dinghy (http://www.optiworld.org/ioda-intro.html)
*Canoe (but I do not think I want to do this one since I couldn't
sail it) - http://www.bateau2.com/free/cheapcanoe.htm

-Plans I have considered for the bigger boat:
*Weekender http://www.stevproj.com/PocketYachts.html
*Bolger's Micro - This one seemed better then the Weekender
http://www.boatdesign.com/micro/
*Sztrandek (probably not a good one since the plans are free and
there will be no support)
http://www.zeglarstwo.3miasto.pl/sztraeng/sztrengl.html

Please comment and advise. I am looking for boat plan recommendations,
similar experiences, tips, tricks, help with making it cheap,

--Jim B.