Did you build you own dinghy?

[Brian D]

If you did, show us a photo. What plan(s) did you use. What was the estimate cost before and final cost after?I have plans for a small 8' from Payton. Haven't started it yet. Guess I am a little apprehensive having never taken on something like this. But what the hell! Going to throw caution to the side and start building. The link is to Payton's Instantboat webpage. I have the plans for Nymph.Let's see that dinghy you built.

 

[Steve Dion]

Before you start consider weight.

Brian:Before you start building something like this be sure that you consider the weight. If you plan on using plywood, then you can calculate the weight of the plywood per sq inch and go from there. These units can get unrully to handle if they are too heavy.If you are always going to tow it or use it in the harbor this is not a big issue. If you need to bring it aboard when the weather get rough, then you have other issues.

 

[Ross]

Brian, I built Nymph and I am very pleased with it.

It is too big for one man to carry but I can lift it by the balance point on one gunwale with my shoulder to the inside of the boat. If I were to build another, I would reinforce the frames a little and plan to use cable ties during assembly. 1/4 inch plywood is difficult to drive small nails into the edges.

 

[Tim R.]

Mine was 50 lbs

It was a Bateau Nutshell. I built it about 7 years ago. It was 7 ft. with a pointed bow and flat bottom made from 1/4 and 3/8 inch plywood. Stitch(zip ties) and tape method. It was very easy to build and cost about $300. I sold it 5 years later for $200. I could balance the gunwhale on my shoulder and carry it myself if needed. It rowed very nicely. It had fairly high freeboard so I could pack a decent amount of people/stuff in it. You are welcome to my plans if you like.

 

[Brian D]

Tim R...

I sent you an email. Did you get it?