Posted by Osric on January 16, 2003 at 07:39:03:
New guy here, looking for tons of info & Advice.
I have a good bit of Carpentry experience but zero experience building boats. My plan is to build the Dinky. It seems like a logical place to start. Then i'll move on to a slightly larger craft, some type of overnighter.
Ultimately my plan is to build a boat that my family and I can do some extended cruising on... which leads me to my questions.
For a larger, ocean going, sailboat I wonder about what material to use. Ive read that Ply wood is, pound for pound, stronger than steel and Wood IS where I have the most experience. Not to mention the preformance benefits.
But on the other hand it looks like, once some basic welding skills are learned, steel is faster and easier. (Time is of the essence) And the goal IS a strong, safe, reliable craft that will get my family where we need to go...not racing.
Is a ply wood boat REALY stronger than a Steel one?
Is steel truely that much faster to build with?
Which is cheaper?
To be honest Im tending toward Wood based on my skills, however time IS key here so if I find stell is Cheaper, quicker, and easier I may go that way. I know im just starting out but I need to know what skills to start aquiring now, with the starter projects, in order to truely realize my ultimate goal.
Any input will be greatly appreciated,
Thanks,
Osric
P.S. Any other good Websites on Boat Building or Cruising?