Modern Self Build

[ukdiving]

Some while ago I queried if self-build was worthwhile and got a pretty discouraging response! Not totally discouraged I have been looking at what wooden (strip built preferably, Plywood as an alternative) designs are around that might meet my needs. If I can find a suitable design, then I really
can consider the options, cost, effort etc.

Being based in the centre of the UK, about as far from the sea as it is possible to be on an island, something trailerable is essential. Equally we want to be able to pursue a wide range of environments from the broads/rivers and exploring estuaries to coastal work and the occasional hop across to Ireland or France. Due to distances it will also need to have reasonable accomodation.
Ok, so these are mutually exclusive desires, requiring a 'jack of all trades' but it seems to me that some of the larger trailer sailers eg Macgregor 26 are probably as close a compromise as we will get - 26', Maximum trailerable size/easily launched, shallow draft with deep daggerboard and water ballast, power and sail, adequate accomodation for up to a week.

The question is has anyone seen a similar design for self build in wood?? Selway Fisher show two smaller (Ailsa and Beaumaris) designs but nothing at the 26' size and at this size even a few feet makes a signifiant difference to accomodation.
Any suggestions of self build designs that would meet our needs?
Clearly, if I cannot find something that suits then self build will have to be discounted but hopefully someone will be able to suggest something.


Given the popularity of the larger trailer sailers, has anyone an explanation why a self build version does not seem to have been developed?

 

[oldsaltoz]

G'day Diver, and welcome to the YBW forums.

Have a look at the "Boat Building Ring"
http://www.boatbuildingring.com/
and http://www.boatbuilding.com/Popular/
or http://home.clara.net/gmatkin/softwr.htm
And read this http://www.arthur-ransome.org/ar/literary/slocum2.htm
Also http://catalog.com/bobpone/shopbuilding.htm
Then http://www.proboat.com/

That lot should give you a bit of interesting reading for the weekend (falls off chair laughing)

Now you are going to need a tender, so why not make that your first project, go for one you can sail and that will also take an outboard.

Use the strip plank core construction, because this will be a good test to work out your cuts and lines as well as scarfing. Use the wet clue method it will be much stronger and only add a very tiny bit of weight. Try to simulate the project as if it were a full size vessel, complete with temp frames and piano wire etc.

When you have finished her, go back and work out just how many hours and squids you managed to fritter away, then multiply that to get some idea of what the 26 footer will cost for the hull only, and don't forget to add the hours and squids for the bulkheads, internal fittings, winches, mast, rigging, electrics, deck fittings, hatches, ballast, rudder shaft, engine, prop, gear box, and the list goes on and on.

But...................................don't be discouraged as the feeling of total satisfaction and achievement is bloody marvelous.

Good luck with your search, keep us all informed on your progress. I'm sure we can all give the odd bit of advice if you run into a brick wall or are looking for a few tips.

Avagoodweekend......

 

[Poignard]

You might find what you want in the USA. Try the "Wooden Boat" magazine and it's website [www.woodenboat-ubb.com?]].

 

[DavidGrieves]

Have a look here

http://www.dixdesign.com/

 

[Lakesailor]

Can't add a lot to Oldsaltz reply. But there is something to consider.
The process takes as long for a beautiful design as it does for an ugly duckling, so think hard about what you will end up with. I have browsed the self-build rings endlessly and have always been struck by how awkward so many of the finished boats look. Strip construction will help get away from the slab-sided look that often accompanies ply construction. Here's a link to a 25 footer that looks superb.

You may want to browse The Mother of All maritime Links. But be warned. It's addictive!

 

[Robin2]

To provide some positive inspiration - here is my attempt being launched in Sept 2001.

Self build is fine if you like the building process (I do). If you don't see yourself getting 75% of the satisfaction from building it yourself - don't start - you will never finish it.

Consider a trailable catamaran - you don't have to drag around a heavy keel that just slows you down in the water. Look at the designs on Richard Woods' website. My boat is one of his designs - but definitely not trailable (except as a wide load at 0400 - reached 50mph).

Trailable catamarans come apart to reduce their width.

Have fun.

 

[Poignard]

Plenty of designs [and links ] on
http://boatbuilding.eigenstart.nl/

 

[snowleopard]

In my book there is only one construction method for boats under 40 ft (over that I'd consider steel). That is GRP foam sandwich. It lets you build any shape, is rigid and lightweight and the levels of skill required are far lower than for wood.

 

[Stemar]

Something like this, perhaps?