crazy homemade boat guy

[youthpastor]

Hi, my name is Tony, and I just built a boat out of plywood with no plans. It's a scow style hull 16' long and 7' wide. I know most of you would probably say I'm crazy for taking this on the ocean, but I have and I do. I just try to stick close to sheltered areas, and watch the weather and waves. I want to actually see if I can get to Victoria with it (I'm in Comox). I think I can if I'm careful.

I get all kinds of looks and comments from the yachters that see me launch it at Comox Marina. Some not so positive, but most of them are very positive and encouraging. It's not a pretty boat, but we have fun in it and we don't take ourselves too seriously.

For my next project, I'd like to build a mini trawler in the 25' range. I think this would be a comfortable sized boat to cruise around Vancouver Island. I guess that's relative.

We moved to Vancouver Island just over 2 years ago and we love it here. I'm here because I'd like to learn more about cruising from some of you experienced folks... as long as you don't take yourself and me too seriously.

Thanks
Tony

[Bruce]

Hi Tony,

Welcome to the BC Boating Forum. 

Congratulations on building your first boat.  To paraphase the Water Rat, 'there is nothing like messing around in boats'  Could you post a picture of your boat on the Forum?

For your future plans, you might want to look at Sam Devlin's designs, particularly the Surf Scoter and Black Crown.  Sam's design use stitch and glue construction.

[youthpastor]

thanks bruce,
actually Devlin's website is in my favorites. Just went out for a day cruise today with my two younger sons. From Comox to Denman Island. It was a beautiful day, and we did a little crabbing while we were out too.