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14 Great Pocket Cruisers in 2023

• By Victor Tan
• Updated: July 20, 2023

Pocket cruisers and mini yachts are generally vessels under 50 feet in length overall, and can include express cruiser designs, flybridge yachts as well as either monohull or catamaran hull forms. They are cruising boats easily handled by a small, or even shorthanded, crew. Pocket cruisers generally have wave-taming hull designs and have the ability to take on sporty seas, offer comfortable accommodations belowdecks with one or two staterooms for extended voyages, “homelike amenities,” and the ability to cruise as slowly or as quickly as an owner desires with inboard- and outboard-power options. These pocket-cruising boats have the range for longer voyages , can pull up in skinny water at the sandbar thanks to shallow drafts, and head over the horizon where cruising adventure awaits. Pocket cruisers are true multitasking yachts. When it comes to family and couples cruising, it’s hard to beat a well-built and well-equipped and pocket cruiser.

Best Cruising Boats Under 50-Feet

The following 14 pocket cruisers and mini yachts are all vessels we’ve seen, been aboard, and tested. They are listed in no particular order.

• Hood 35 LM: high-tech, family-friendly pocket cruiser
• Galeon Yachts 375 GTO: mid-size boat with plenty of below-deck space
• Aquila 42: sleek power catamaran ready to entertain
• Azimut Verve 42 : small, yet mighty yacht ready for open water
• Hinckley Yachts 35: luxury picnic cruiser with range
• Beneteau Gran Turismo 45: sleek cruising yacht with all the amenities
• Solaris Power 48 Open: eye-catching power yacht with 360-degree views
• Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS: luxury cruiser yacht with powerful outboard options
• Back Cove 34O: modern outboard power combined with classic Downeast styling
• Picnic Boat 40: speedy and fuel-efficient vessel with great looks
• Aquila 36: comfortably seat up to 20 guests for fun on the salt
• Boston Whaler 350 Realm: multitasker built for fishing and entertaining
• MJM 35z: sporty, aesthetically pleasing, cruising-conscious features and elegant lines
• Greenline 39: sturdy-looking lines and environmentally-friendly power

When Android co-founder, Rich Miner, wanted a new family-friendly pocket cruiser , he turned to a custom-penned C.W. Hood design and a Lyman-Morse-built 35-footer, which has a timeless Down East profile matched to seriously modern technology under the hood.

This yacht looks like a traditional, cold-molded Down East dayboat, but actually, it has everything, from Hamilton HJX Series water-jet drives to a planned Sea Machines autonomous command-and-control system . Top speed: 40-plus knots.

Quick Specifications

Galeon yachts 375 gto.

Even the remnants of Hurricane Ian, couldn’t dissuade the Galeon Yacht 375 GTO from its cruising mission. The small yacht’s wave-splitting hull form is paired to torque-filled 600 hp Mercury Verado outboards , giving this fun-in-the-sun boat a 47-knot top hop.

The 375 GTO is a speedster, to be sure, but it’s also so much more. Just about every aspect of the main deck seating is transformable and multifunction, from the aft seating to the alfresco dining abaft the helm, and beyond. It also has a family-size and eminently cruise-worthy belowdecks space for four guests, all while providing a foredeck entertaining lounge too.

The Galeon Yachts 375 GTO ticks all the boxes for an easy-to-handle and sporty cruiser.

Aquila 42 Yacht Power Catamaran

Following the success of its 44-, 54- and 70-foot power catamaran models, Aquila has launched the stable-as-a-table, owner-operator-ready Aquila 42 Yacht Power Catamaran .

The Aquila 42 is the entry point into the builder’s yacht line and is noteworthy for its ability to accommodate anywhere from a two- to four-stateroom layout, depending on the owner’s cruising requirements. There are alfresco spaces to manage the sunset cruise with friends and family, including a foredeck lounge area that can be accessed via centerline steps from the flybridge. The Aquila 42 is available with several Volvo Penta diesel-engine options .

Azimut Verve 42

Want to cruise from Florida to Bimini in about an hour? The Azimut Yachts Verve 42 can do that thanks, in part, to triple 450 hp Mercury Racing outboards and a hull designed to dice-and-slice a seaway. Top hop: 45 knots. The Verve 42 also has style for miles with a fine entry, raked hardtop, and a razorlike sheerline accented by sweeping hull glass from bow to stern. It’s striking.

With accommodation for a family of four, the Verve 42 is also solid under the hull tokeep everyone safe on those passages. The Verve 42’s hull is built of fiberglass and uses vinylester resins for blister protection. The yacht’s deck and hardtop are comprised of carbon fiber for strength without added weight. This all means that the Azimut Verve 42 is built to CE Classification Type A , making it suitable for sea voyages where winds can exceed 45 mph and seas to 13 feet.

Hinckley Yachts 35

The Hinckley Yachts 35 takes everything that yachtsmen like about this pedigreed-brand’s classic profile and infuses today’s modern outboard power to create 40 knots of sheer fun wrapped in sheer luxury.

This 35-foot Hinckley is built on a Michael-Peters-penned hull form with a fine entry, wider-than-average chines and a moderate deadrise. While the boat is built to sprint when desired, it’s also a relatively economical cruiser. For instance, a comfortable 24-knot cruise the Hinckley Yachts 35 has a 276-nautical-mile range.

It also has a tech-build thanks to vacuum-infused carbon-fiber composites and epoxy resin. An integrated interior structure is infused with the hull adding rigidity. The hull is then post-cured in an 80-foot oven, further strengthening the structure.

Beneteau Gran Turismo 45

The Beneteau Gran Turismo is the flagship of the builder’s four-model GT series, which also includes 32-, 36- and 41-foot models.

The Gran Turismo 45 ’s cruise-centric layout includes two staterooms and two heads belowdecks, as well as a galley down. There is also a dinette for meals and a settee for rainy-day lounging. Entertaining guests and enjoying the sun is the primary mission of the main deck.

Solaris Power 48 Open

The Solaris Power 48 Open was the first powerboat from this longtime builder known for its sailing yachts, ranging from 40 to 110 feet length overall. The Solaris Power 48 Open is notable for its wave-slicing plumb-bow design, high freeboard forward and 32-knot-plus speed. Power is twin 480 hp Volvo Penta IPS650 diesels.

The high freeboard keeps the deck dry and help creates sizable volume belowdecks with an average 6-foot-6-inch headroom. This enables real estate for either one or two staterooms. With the single-stateroom setup, there is a forepeak master stateroom while an L-shaped settee converts to sleeping accommodations for family or occasional guests. Interior wood options are oak or walnut.

Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS

Outboard-power cruising aficionados will appreciate the triple-engine options for the Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS . The 42 GLS we got aboard had the triple 400 hp Mercury Verados , which produced a top hop of 45 knots, but triple 450 hp Verados are available. Triple 350 hp Mercury Verados are the standard engine option. No matter the power arrangement, this express cruiser can easily be used for wakeboarding and tube towing. The 42 GLS is designed to handle the rough stuff too, with a fine entry and 21-degree transom deadrise.

For cruising enthusiasts, the 42 GLS has a master stateroom with an athwartships and a nearly queen-size berth, and the lower salon’s U-shaped dinette converts to a queen-size berth for the kids.

Back Cove 34O

Combining modern outboard power with classic Downeast styling, the Back Cove 34O touts award-winning standards with cruising in mind. The 34O is equipped with twin 300 hp Yamaha outboards, engines that allow the Newport International Boat Show’s 2018 Best Powerboat Under 35 Feet winner to travel up to 214 nautical miles at 24 knots on a 250-gallon fuel tank.

Belowdecks, the 34O has an island double berth and a split-head arrangement with the toilet to port and a separate shower stall to starboard. On the main deck, a U-shape dinette to port accommodates four or more guests on the Back Cove Yachts vessel. The 34O’s galley is equipped with a Cuisinart microwave, a two-burner Kenyon electric cooktop and a Vitrifrigo fridge and freezer.

Picnic Boat 40

Hinckley Yachts unveiled its first Picnic Boat more than two decades ago. Now, after two previous, sub-40-foot models, the Maine-based boatbuilder has developed its largest and most advanced model to date: the Picnic Boat 40.

Twin 480 hp Cummins diesel engines paired to twin Hamilton 322 jet drives propel the yacht to a 30-knot cruising speed and 34 knots on the pins. With optional twin 550 hp Cummins diesels, cruise and top-end speeds jump to 35 and 38 knots, respectively.

There is an L-shaped settee with a table and a wet bar on the main deck to port. The helm station is forward and to starboard with a benchseat for two. There is also a companion seat across from the helm. Belowdecks, there is 6-foot-2-inch headroom, and the dinette table drops to form a California-king berth for overnights and weekending.

Aquila Power Catamarans started its line with 44- and 48-footers, and now the builder’s Aquila 36 takes the line into the midsize market.

The 36 features a single, main-living area from bow to stern, helped in part by the vessel’s 14-foot, 7-inch beam. The boat can comfortably seat up to 20 guests for fun on the salt. Several Mercury Verado engine options are available for the Aquila 36, including twin 250-, 300- and 350-hp four-strokes. With the 350s, the Aquila has a top-end speed of 37 knots.

Other notable features include a fiberglass hardtop, a dinette, a cooktop, a fridge, a sink and a smokeless grill. Belowdecks, there are two staterooms with nearly queen-size berths, en suite heads and 6-foot-6-inch headroom in each.

Boston Whaler 350 Realm

From fishing and entertaining guests to diving and overnight cruising, Boston Whaler ‘s 350 Realm is a multitasker. And it’s fast, too. It’s powered with either triple 300 hp or triple 350 hp Mercury Verados. The 350 Realm can reach a top speed of 46 knots.

At the helm, two Raymarine displays provide vital navigation data. The captain can take in the displays’ view from a doublewide helm seat. There’s a flip-down platform for standing when needed and a footrest when desired.

There is a V-shaped berth that converts into a double berth with a filler cushion. The separated head has a VacuFlush MSD and a hot-and-cold shower. Owners also have the option to add a microwave and a flat-screen TV.

The MJM 35z can reach a top speed of 44 knots and a cruising speed of 33 knots on its optional 350 hp Mercury Verado outboards; twin 300 hp outboards are standard on this MJM Yachts vessel. Additionally, the 35z can travel up to 304 nautical miles on its 250-gallon fuel tank.

The 35z has a flush-deck layout and to port is space for an electric grill, a baitwell, a sink, an ice maker and a fridge. There are two Stidd helm seats—one for the helmsman and the other for a copilot—that rotate to face the rest of the seating aft. In the cabin is V-shaped seating forward that can be converted to a berth.

Owners also have the option of adding a Seakeeper 3 gyrostabilizer and a full-length Bimini top to shade the cockpit.

Greenline 39

Greenline Yachts ‘ vessels are aptly named for their environmentally friendly means of moving about; the Greenline 39 is no different. The Slovenian yacht manufacturer produces two types of this model: hybrid and solar.

If owners opt for the latter, the 39’s four solar panels atop the salon power all of the vessel’s systems for three hours. With the power of the sun, the 39 can achieve a max speed of 6.5 knots and a cruising speed of 4 knots. The hybrid type uses those same panels to help power a 220 hp Volvo Penta D3 with a Mahle electric-drive system. Owners have the option of replacing the standard engine with a 370 hp Yanmar 8LV diesel.

Belowdecks, scissor berths provide accommodations for long weekends.

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Description

This design has been drawn up for the same client who asked us to design the Simplicity 14 a number of years ago - this new design is to cater for the sailors who like to sail long distances in the smallest craft possible. She has large storage areas for FW and food as well as the kind of gear you need for extensive offshore work.

She has been designed to sail from inside the boat so that virtually all sail controls plus the steering lines are led inside.

Construction is simple stitch and tape plywood using epoxy filleting and tape and based upon a framework consisting of a central plywood fore and aft girder which is slotted together with the plywood frames/bulkheads and fore and aft transoms. 6mm (1/4") ply is used for most of the construction and the hull skin consists of several layers of ply to produce a very tough hull.

Note - the plans now show Marconi rig and sliding hatch alternatives.

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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

The best small cruising yachts in 2023

• Theo Stocker
• September 29, 2023

Despite bigger yachts dominating the new boat scene in recent decades, there are still any number of builders making new smaller cruisers. Here's our pick of the best small cruising yachts in 2023

We have seen a surprisingly large number of builders going against the grain to bring small cruising yachts to market in the last year or so, ranging from trailer0-sailers to smaller traditionally-styled options. Here, we’ve rounded up 4 of the best small cruising yachts launched in the last year.

Typically this size of yacht appeals to those who are looking for a day sailer or weekender and will often offer reduced draught in able to allow you to go creek crawling or nose your way into otherwise hard to get to anchorages.

The best small cruising yachts 2023

Once you’ve seen one, Bente yachts are unmistakable. We revisited the brand’s first boat, the Bente 24 , a couple of issues ago, which has been around for 10 years or so. The brand then launched the striking Bente 39 which was immensely innovative, but the company ran into financial difficulties. Now under new owners and a more stable footing, a third model has been launched, which I can’t wait to test sail. The Bente 28 is unlike any other 28-footer.

The hull is cutting edge with wide transom, double rudders and full bows providing a powerful hull form as well as volume below. Construction is polyester GRP foam sandwich, with the basic version being heavier hand lamination, and the more expensive Edition version being vacuum infused. While this is a boat designed to be fast, it’s a long way from a wild racing boat.

Displacement is a not outlandish 3.2 tonnes and draught is 1.6m (there’s an option for a 1.95m performance T-keel with lead bulb that’s 100kg lighter), so it fits well within the scope of a sensible cruising boat.

The Tide 25, built by MFH in north Germany – began its life as a Dehler SQ25, but the mould was sold off when that company hit hard times. Plumb bows and stern with a long hull chine, bevelled deck edge and twin rudders put her on trend, and maximise performance under sail and accommodation on board.

On deck, she has a large cockpit with benches forward and four decent lockers. Under the cockpit sole there’s access to what would be engine space for a diesel inboard, now housing batteries for the electric motors.

Opt for the sport version, and you’ll get beefed up deck hardware and a minimalist fit out, with the mainsheet traveller across the transom, while the comfort version has a smaller main with the mainsheet coming to a fixed point on the cockpit sole forward of the helm. The rig has aft-swept spreaders and no backstay.

The fact that the accommodation of the Pointer 30 is designed around a Nespresso machine, enshrined in glory, tells you a lot about this boat. It was conceived as a comfortable, fast and stylish weekend cruiser that you can take your friends down to for a coffee before a nice sail to somewhere for lunch. This is a boat that knows what it is about. Tea drinkers, don’t worry; there’s still a gas hob to boil a kettle.

The sail area isn’t vast, but this looks to be an easily driven hull. A below-deck furler setting a genoa that sheets to tracks on the coachroof is standard, with a self-tacker being optional.

The fixed bowsprit houses a bow roller, and a tack point for furling offwind sails – the gennaker takes her offwind sail area up to 100m2, set from an aluminium twin-spreader rig with adjustable backstay. She has a powerful kicker, but no traveller for the main, which is sheeted to a raised plinth in the cockpit sole.

Below deck the layout is simple, clean and quietly stylish. Headroom is restricted, dictated by the low freeboard and elegant lines.

To port, the heart of the boat is the ‘coffee bar’ on a shelf in the moulded hull liner, next to a small dinette-style table with two leather swivel armchairs. The forward of these chairs spins round to face a neat lift-top desk (though the drawer below isn’t large enough for a chart).

Swallow Yachts 32

Aimed at sailors who may have owned larger yachts before but want to downsize, Swallow Yachts owner Matt Newland explained that he ‘wanted to build a boat that was fun and easy to sail, simple to maintain and had timeless looks with as low an environmental impact as possible.’

Though not a true launch-and-sail trailer sailer, a four-by-four will still be able to tow the 32 on her own trailer, as boat and trailer come in at under 3.5 tonnes, and within the 2.9m overhang limit.

With a keel-down draught of 2.8m, a fine entry at the bow and broad aft sections, this boat promises to be a good performer. You can sail with the lifting keel in any position for shoal waters, but lift it all the way and you’ve got a draught of just 40cm for creek crawling and drying out.

Newland has tried to draw lines that are timeless rather than trendy while a retractable bowsprit, backstayless carbon rig and square-top mainsail ensure she is right up there in terms of her contemporary design and latest tech.

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Smallest boats: The bonkers world of Microyacht adventures

• Elaine Bunting
• November 28, 2022

What are the smallest boats sailors consider for crossing and ocean? For ‘microyacht’ voyagers, there's no limit. Elaine Bunting finds out why they put to sea in tiny vessels

Often the smallest boats to cross oceans look much like a child’s crayon picture of a little boat on a big sea, certainly Yann Quenet’s Baluchon does. Baluchon is only 13ft 1in (4m long), with one simple sail and a stubby, blunt-nosed hull painted cherry red and ice cream white.

Baluchon is no toy, though. When Quenet sailed it back to Brittany in August, he had fulfilled his childhood ambition of circumnavigating in a tiny boat. Its simple appearance is emblematic of his philosophy. “I have loved little boats since I was a child,” he says, “and I am still a child at heart. Sailing round the world on a little boat is something I have dreamed about since I was a teenager.”

Quenet, now 51, has dedicated much of his adult life to designing, building and sailing microyachts. Whereas most of us progress in incrementally larger boats, Quenet’s craft have always been minuscule. He has created numerous self-build designs for plywood construction from a 9m gaffer to a 5m trimaran and a 6.5m gaff yawl (see them at boat-et-koad.com ).

In 2015, Quenet attempted to cross the Atlantic in a 14ft 1in (4.3m) plywood scow, but it capsized in a storm off the coast of Spain and he was rescued by a ship. After that experience he resolved to come up with a bulletproof self-righting microyacht suitable for ocean sailing, and went back to the drawing board.

His solution was a pram-style design that could be built in plywood in under 4,000 hours and would cost no more than €4,000. Baluchon is the result, a tiny boat to be sailed by one person for up to six weeks at a time and resilient enough to take anything the oceans throw at it.

Yann Quenet’s 4m long Baluchon

Smallest boats getting smaller

The history of sailing across oceans in the smallest boats is a surprisingly long one. With a few exceptions (of which more later), it is not about breaking records. This is about stripping away everything complex and extraneous – including other people.

One of the most famous small boat voyages was nearly 70 years ago when Patrick Elam and Colin Mudie made several ocean passages in Sopranino , which was only 17ft 9in (5.4m) on the waterline. Elam observed: “I would not pretend that Sopranino is the optimum size. At sea she is near perfect, but could with advantage be a few inches longer to give a slightly bigger cockpit and a separate stowage for wet oilskins below. In harbour, she is too small (for comfort) and too delicate and vulnerable.”

Also in the 1950s, John Guzzwell consulted Jack Giles about the smallest boat practical to sail around the world and Giles drew the 20ft 6in (6.2m) Trekka , which Guzzwell built and circumnavigated in twice. Smaller still was Shane Acton’s 18ft 4in (5.5m) Shrimpy , a Robert Tucker design which he sailed round the world in 1972 despite having very little sailing experience when he left.

Tom McNally planned to retake his small-boat Atlantic crossing record in Big C. Photo: Ajax News

In 1987, Serge Testa beat that by sailing round the world in his self-designed 11ft 10in (3.6m) aluminium sloop, Acrohc Australis . He broke the record for the smallest yacht to be sailed round the world, one that is still standing 35 years later.

This feat, together with Acton’s well-publicised voyages in the 1970s, ignited a lasting interest in small boat or microyacht voyages. Money is usually a factor in the choice of such small craft but overlaid by a streak of determined romanticism, the almost spiritual challenge of sailing a nutshell craft across a vast ocean.

Yann Quenet is not alone in creating self-build plans for aspiring micro-voyagers. New Zealander John Welsford also specialises in small boats such as the 18ft (5.5m) junk-rigged Swaggie – ‘a mighty, miniature long range cruiser’ – and a sturdy oceangoing 21ft (6.5m) gaff cutter, Sundowner (see jwboatdesigns.co.nz ).

As with Quenet’s little boats, Welsford’s designs are for plywood construction. The plans, he says, are detailed for “real beginners with very basic woodworking skills and a good attitude… the other skills will come as the project progresses.”

In his thinking, people can experience a deep sense of escape even through the process of building such a boat. “I anticipate a lot of builders will be people who find themselves trapped in a soulless desk job which condemns them to commuting for hours in heavy traffic, living in a thin-walled and crowded apartment and dreaming with longing of the freedom of the seas, golden sands and warm breezes.”

John Guzzwell’s Trekka. Photo: Historic Images/Alamy

Perhaps unsurprisingly the small boat community attracts a mixture of adventurers, inventors, idealists and eccentrics. One of the less successful was the self-styled ‘Admiral Dinghy’, a former Hollywood B-movie star and retired dance teacher from the US whose longtime aim was to sail round the world in a 9ft 11in (3m) boat. He had scant ocean sailing experience and no money. He’d been building and tinkering with his tiny junk-rigged boat since 1975 and began preparing for a circumnavigation in earnest in 2009. But he had problems with his boat, never went offshore and has since vanished from the radar.

A small boat living legend

A mixture of naïve courage and inexperience appears characteristic of many of the smallest boat sailors. It’s easy to imagine a dichotomy at the heart of it: many of the ideas could be perilous in hands of someone inexperienced, yet how many seasoned sailors would contemplate voyaging in a tiny craft?

Someone who has, numerous times, is Sven Yrvind. A Swedish sailor and boatbuilder, now aged 83, he has been designing and sailing tiny yachts for more than 60 years. He built his first tiny open boat in 1962, and decades of experimentation and voyaging followed.

In 1969, he built a 15ft 7in (4.2m) boat and sailed to Ireland. In 1971, he built his first Bris (or Breeze) in his mother’s basement, its size dictated by the dimensions of the cellar and the door it would have to be taken out through. He sailed this 19ft 8in (6m) cold moulded epoxy double-ender across the Atlantic seven times in four years and went as far as Argentina and Tristan da Cunha. (I highly recommend reading his fascinating and entertaining account at yrvind.com/my-life-texts ).

Yann Quenet completed a three-year world tour on his 4m Baluchon. Photo: Damien Meyer/AFP/Getty

In his next boat, the 15ft 9in (5.9m) Bris II , he went much further, sailing south to the Falkland Islands in 1980, before rounding Cape Horn and going north to Chile.

Over the decades, Yrvind (his birth surname was Lundin but he changed it to the Swedish term for a turbulent wind) has continually experimented with tiny yachts. In 1986, he built a 15ft 8in (5.76m) double-ender and sailed it to Newfoundland. In his most recent boat, Exlex (Outlaw), he sailed to the Azores in 2018, and in 2020 from Norway to the Azores and Madeira, returning to Ireland, a voyage of 150 days.

Right now, he is working on Exlex Minor , a glassfibre sailing canoe design of 20ft 4in (6.2m) which he intends to sail round Cape Horn to Valdivia in Chile. This new boat has twin keels and 12m2 of canvas split between three square sails on freestanding masts.

His food, water and all his possessions for up to 150 days at sea amount to around 1 tonne. He stores 111 litres of water on board as he “doesn’t trust desalinators. They can break down.” At sea, his diet is a simple mix of oatmeal and almond flour – “like muesli” – and sardines. “I eat the same every day,” he says, “and at lunchtime, not any other time.”

“I am a health nut. I believe in running and eating once a day for a long life.”

small-boat sailing legend Sven Yrvind. Photo: Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP/Getty

Yrvind’s way of life divides opinion. Many casual followers think his choice of yacht slightly mad, but the tiny boat community reveres him as a living legend. To him, it just makes plain sense. “My boats are very functional. If you go back to old magazines from the 1950s and 1960s, boats were not much bigger. Back then, a 30ft boat was quite a decent size. The Hiscocks sailed twice round the world in such a boat. Now 40ft is too small; it must be 50ft.

“And what is big enough? With a small boat, you don’t have a lot of problems with money. You go back to first principles. You also have a boat you can tow behind a car. I have been doing that down to France and Ireland. Or you can put it in a container. So small boats are really handy.”

Yrvind in his 15ft 8in Exlex. Photo: Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP/Getty

No room to stretch out

Smaller even than Sven Yrvind’s vessels are the record breakers’ boats, no bigger than a bathtub.

For many years, the record for the smallest yacht to cross the Atlantic was held by Hugo Vihlen, a former Korean War fighter pilot and Delta Airlines captain from Florida. In 1968, he crossed from west to east in the 5ft 11in April Fool . In 1993, his record was broken by Tom McNally, a fine arts lecturer from Liverpool, in his 5ft 4 1/2in (1.6m) Vera Hugh .

That prompted Vihlen, then aged 61, to go back out a few months later to recapture his record in Father’s Day , which was half an inch shorter than Vera Hugh . Vihlen crossed from Newfoundland to Falmouth in 105 days.

Andrew Bedwell intends to take former record holder Tom McNally’s modified 1.1m Big C to a new Atlantic record. Photo: Paul Larkin Photography

Not to be outdone, McNally designed and built an even smaller boat for the record, the 3ft 10in (1.1m) Big C . His plans were shattered when he was diagnosed with kidney cancer and he was unable to sail it before he died in 2017.

Next year, British sailor Andrew Bedwell hopes to break Vihlen’s 30-year record. As a sailmaker and experienced sailor, he knows exactly what he is getting into. Bedwell has previously sailed a Mini 6.50 to the Arctic and been round Britain in a Class 40 .

In 2018 he started reading up about small boats. “I had always had an interest in unusual challenges and things that were raw. I saw these boats and was amazed by them, and I started designing a vessel.”

He contacted Tom McNally’s daughter and was amazed to learn that Big C was still lying in her garden. “It had never been in the water, or fitted out. Sails had been made for it, but they had never been used.”

Lorraine McNally agreed to sell, and Bedwell worked out how he could modify it for him to sail across the Atlantic. He calculates that it will take him around 60-80 days to cover the 1,900 miles from Newfoundland to the Lizard, sailing at an average of 2.5 knots. It has twin headsails set on one furler, and external floats, or pods, that make it behave a little like a trimaran when heeled. Freeboard is only 35cm and “she really does bob like a cork”, Bedwell says.

The boat is so tiny he cannot stretch out in it. “When in there I have to sit. It is dead flat in the bottom and in calm conditions I can just about get into a foetal position – and I mean just. I’ve modified the hull so my hip can just fit into a recess.”

Big C is a tight squeeze for British sailor Andrew Bedwell, and he could spend up to 80 days in it crossing the Atlantic from Newfoundland to the Lizard.

With the hatch fully shut the boat is watertight and airtight, but has only 40 minutes’ worth of air, so Bedwell is making two rotating air scoops at the bow.

When conditions allow, he might be able to stand up, or even go for a swim, but mainly “there is very little you can do with the lower body at all.”

Muscle wastage will be a major issue. To offset this at least partially, Bedwell will use a manual desalinator to make water. “We looked at putting in a generator to pedal but there isn’t space.”

His rationed food will amount to only 1,000 calories a day, “so I will lose weight and muscle mass, but I want a slow, slow decline.”

The food will all be the same. “It is a protein food similar to Shackleton’s pemmican, a clever nutritional bar made of fat and protein, salt and honey, with a little bit of paracetamol to thin the blood and ascorbic acid to preserve it and prevent scurvy,” he explains. “I will eat that for at least a month before I go, to get used to it.”

All 12 of the boat’s watertight compartments will be filled with it. “It will be moulded in bags and pushed into the hull. I will take food from the external pods to start with and work inwards, so increasing stability as we go.”

Italian skipper Alessandro Di Benedetto returns to Les Sables d’Olonne in 2010 after a non-stop circumnavigation with his 21ft Mini Transat 6.50. Photo: Charly Triballeau/AFP/Getty

Bedwell’s planning sounds scrupulous. But… isn’t it the definition of suffering?

“Yes, very close to it,” he replies cheerfully. “If you said you were going to do this to prisoners, you wouldn’t be allowed to, it’d be against human rights.

“There’s not going to be any comfort in it whatsoever. Food and navigation equipment are the absolute keys. There’ll be no changes of clothes, for example, as there’s no room. It’s so tight. I can use some water to wash but it will be a flannel wash. l’ll do what I can to prevent saltwater sores but there’s not going to be any soap.”

When close to the finish of one of his voyages, Tom McNally was hit by a ferry. The hull of his boat split and he had to be fished out of the water almost by the seat of his pants. Bedwell says: “If I’m hit by a tanker I’m not going to survive that, but tech has changed. Tom didn’t have AIS but we have a standalone Class B transponder as well as a VHF with AIS receiver . I have a masthead light – the boat is so short it doesn’t need to be a tricolour.”

Bedwell says: “Planning this keeps your mind completely occupied as every single little detail has to be completely thought through.” He rejects any suggestion that he is ‘making a bid’ for the record or similar phraseology. “I am not attempting it. I’m doing it. My theory is if I’m just trying, I’m not really pushing myself.”

Matt Kent’s 2017 solo Atlantic crossing attempt in the 42in Undaunted ended in failure.

Smallest boats, smallest problems

The micro-voyagers seem to share a different way of looking at the world, a can-do attitude galvanised by their repudiations.

“Human beings are very adaptable,” says Sven Yrvind. “Lawrence of Arabia lived simply in the desert and said wine takes away the taste of water. It is the same with comfort. It depends on your mindset and how you think, how you look at life. Some people go on holiday on bicycles and put up a tent. Some want a car and a caravan. I think when they get back the man with the bicycle is happier and has more to think about.”

“You can get spoilt,” he argues. “If you get something without fighting for it, you’re not so happy when you get it.”

Returning after 31,000 miles and 360 days under sail in his little yacht, Yann Quenet insists that a small boat is the best. “Small boat equals small problems. When there is no engine, there is nothing to go wrong, just a simple boat that is simple to sail.”

Andrew Bedwell explains how he gradually dismissed fripperies. “I’d had plusher boats, but hated it – all the cushions and wiring hidden behind panels. It’s just not me. I kept coming back to the simple things.” Like Sven Yrvind and Yann Quenet, he made the realisation that his sense of achievement might be in inverse proportion to boat size.

When people ask now about what he is doing with Big C , he tells them, without a hint of irony: “Everyone is different. I need something really big.”

If you enjoyed this….

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Learn How to Make a Miniature Sailboat | Step-by-Step Guide

Alex Morgan

Making a miniature sailboat can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby. Building your own miniature sailboat allows you to unleash your creativity, learn about boat construction, and have a functional piece of art. With the right materials, tools, and techniques, you can create a beautiful miniature sailboat that is both aesthetically pleasing and capable of sailing. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a miniature sailboat, from gathering materials and tools to painting and finishing touches, testing and setting sail, as well as troubleshooting and maintenance. Let’s embark on this exciting journey of constructing your very own miniature sailboat.

Key takeaway:

• Making a miniature sailboat maximizes creativity: Building a miniature sailboat allows individuals to express their creativity and craftsmanship while creating a functional toy or decorative piece.
• Gathering the right materials and tools is crucial: The quality of the miniature sailboat depends on using the right materials and tools for each component, such as the hull, mast, sails, rigging, and accessories.
• Attention to detail enhances the finished product: Painting and adding finishing touches to the miniature sailboat, including sanding, priming, applying paint and varnish, and adding details and decorations, bring the sailboat to life and make it visually appealing.

Gather Materials and Tools

Get ready to set sail on a fantastic DIY adventure! In this section, we’ll dive into the essential steps of gathering materials and tools for creating your very own miniature sailboat. From crafting the sturdy hull to designing the mast and sails, we’ll cover all the bases. We’ll even explore the intricate details of rigging and accessories that will give your sailboat that extra touch of authenticity. So, hoist your imagination and get ready to embark on this nautical journey with us.

To create the table for the sub-topic “ 1. Hull “, the following information is provided:

The table above provides vital information about the hull of a miniature sailboat. It includes details about the construction material , shape , length , width , keel , and bilge . These factors greatly impact the sailboat’s performance and stability on the water.

2. Mast and Sails

When building a miniature sailboat, the mast and sails are the most crucial components. It is essential to select a strong and lightweight material such as aluminum or carbon fiber for the mast. Cutting the mast to the desired length is also important, ensuring that it is tall enough to catch sufficient wind. To guarantee stability, securely attaching the mast to the boat’s deck using screws or bolts is necessary. Attaching the sails to the mast with sail ties or rigging clips is essential, ensuring proper alignment and tightness. Setting up the necessary rigging lines to control the positioning and tension of the sails is also important. Prior to setting sail, it is crucial to test the mast and sails to ensure that they are securely fastened and functioning properly.

I once had the exciting experience of building a miniature sailboat, and attaching the mast and sails filled me with anticipation. As the wind caught the sails and propelled the boat forward, a sense of pride engulfed me for my creation. Witnessing my sailboat smoothly glide across the water, responding to the wind, was an exhilarating sight. Building and sailing a miniature sailboat truly showcases the ingenuity and craftsmanship of humans.

3. Rigging and Accessories

Below is a table outlining the steps of rigging and accessorizing a miniature sailboat:

Rigging and accessories are vital for the performance and functionality of a miniature sailboat. Securely attaching the mast and sails ensures stability and proper maneuvering. Rigging lines adjust the sails to catch wind effectively. Accessories such as pulleys, cleats, and winches enhance overall control and ease of operation. Paying attention to proper rigging and accessories leads to a well-functioning and enjoyable miniature sailboat experience.

Throughout history, sailing has fascinated and allowed people to explore open waters. Sailboats have been used for transportation, discovery, and leisure from ancient civilizations to modern times. Miniature sailboats now provide enthusiasts with the thrill of sailing on a smaller scale. With the right rigging and accessories, these vessels navigate waters gracefully and precisely, bringing joy to builders and sailors. The art of rigging a sailboat has been passed down through generations and holds tremendous importance in sailing. By understanding the rigging process and selecting suitable accessories, sailors can create miniature sailboats that embody the spirit of adventure and love for the sea.

Building the Miniature Sailboat

To set sail on the journey of building a miniature sailboat , we’ll dive into the practical steps that bring it to life. Get ready to embark on a captivating adventure as we tackle the art of constructing the hull, attaching the mast and sails, and adding the intricate rigging and accessories. From the sturdy foundation of the hull to the intricate details of the rigging, each sub-section will unveil essential elements to create a captivating miniature sailboat . So, grab your tools and let’s set sail into the world of boat building !

1. Constructing the Hull

To begin constructing the hull, gather all of the necessary materials including plywood, a saw, and sandpaper. Measure and cut the plywood to the desired dimensions for the hull .

It is important to sand the edges of the plywood in order to achieve a smooth finish . Next, apply wood glue along the edges and join the pieces together to form the hull . While the glue is drying, use clamps to hold the pieces in place.

To reinforce the hull , add epoxy resin to the joints. Once the entire hull is dry, sand it down for a polished look. For added protection, apply a primer . Paint the hull with the desired color using marine-grade paint for water resistance.

It is important to note that the hull plays a vital role in the stability and performance of a sailboat on the water.

2. Attaching the Mast and Sails

To successfully attach the mast and sails to your miniature sailboat, simply follow these steps:

1. Begin by preparing the mast, ensuring it is clean and free from any debris or imperfections.

2. Carefully position the mast in the designated area on the hull, making sure it is properly aligned.

3. Secure the mast to the hull using either adhesive or small screws, ensuring a stable attachment.

4. Attach the sails by positioning them on the mast and securing them with small strings or ropes.

5. To improve the catchability of the wind, adjust the tension of the strings or ropes to properly tighten the sails.

6. Test the attachment by gently moving the sailboat to ensure the mast and sails are securely attached. Make any necessary adjustments for stability.

7. Check that the sails can move freely and are not obstructed by the mast or any other parts of the sailboat.

By following these steps, you will achieve a secure attachment of the mast and sails to your miniature sailboat . This is crucial for optimal performance and the enjoyment of your sailing experience.

3. Adding Rigging and Accessories

Adding Rigging and Accessories

When adding rigging and accessorizing your miniature sailboat , you should follow these steps:

1. Begin by attaching the mast to the hull using either glue or screws.

2. Next, secure the sails to the mast using small clips or ties.

3. Then, add the rigging lines by tying them to specific locations on both the mast and hull. These lines play a vital role in controlling the movement and positioning of the sails.

4. Attach smaller accessories, such as life rings or flags , to the boat using either adhesive or small hooks.

To ensure optimal results, make sure that the rigging lines are tight and the accessories are securely fastened. This will help prevent any accidental detachment while in use.

If you want to enhance the overall appearance of your mini sailboat, you can consider using colorful and eye-catching accessories. You can also experiment with various types of rigging materials, such as thread or thin wire , to achieve different visual effects.

Painting and Finishing Touches

Give your miniature sailboat the perfect finishing touches with the section on painting and finishing . From sanding and priming to applying paint and varnish, we’ll cover all the steps you need to know. Plus, we’ll show you how to add those final details and decorations that will truly make your sailboat shine. Get ready to transform your creation into a masterpiece that will impress all who see it.

1. Sanding and Priming

When sanding and priming a miniature sailboat, it is important to follow these steps:

1. Prepare the surface: Start by cleaning the hull with a damp cloth to effectively remove dust and debris.

2. Sand the hull: Take a gentle approach and sand the entire hull using fine-grit sandpaper in a circular motion.

3. Remove any sanding residue: After sanding, it’s crucial to wipe away any residue or dust with a clean, dry cloth.

4. Apply the primer: To ensure a smooth surface, use either a small paintbrush or foam brush to apply a thin, even coat of primer to the hull. Make sure to cover the entire surface area and allow the primer to dry completely.

5. Sand the primer: Once the primer is dry, lightly sand it using fine-grit sandpaper. This step will help smooth out any imperfections.

6. Remove any sanding residue: Eliminate any remaining residue or dust by using a clean, dry cloth.

By following these steps, you will ensure that the hull of your miniature sailboat is properly sanded and primed, creating a smooth surface for painting.

2. Applying Paint and Varnish

To apply paint and varnish to a miniature sailboat , follow these steps:

1. Sand the surface to remove imperfections and create a smooth, even surface.

2. Apply primer to the hull and other parts of the sailboat. This helps the paint adhere better and provides a good base for the colors.

3. Choose the colors you want and apply them using a small brush or airbrush. Start with the base color and let it dry before adding additional colors or details.

4. Once the paint is dry , apply varnish to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish. Use a brush or spray varnish, following the product instructions for application.

5. Allow the varnish to dry completely before handling the miniature sailboat or adding any additional details.

Pro-tip: When painting a miniature sailboat, use thin coats of paint and varnish for smooth, even coverage. Work in a well-ventilated area to prevent fumes. Remember to clean brushes thoroughly after each use to maintain their quality for future projects.

3. Adding Details and Decorations

– First , gather all the necessary materials for adding details and decorations to your miniature sailboat. This can include flags, stickers, miniature figures, or decorative ropes.

– Next , consider where you want to place these decorations on your sailboat. Popular areas include the hull, mast, and sails.

– Carefully attach each decoration using an appropriate adhesive, ensuring that they are securely in place.

– Use small paintbrushes to add intricate details or accents , such as patterns or designs, to the flags, figures, or other decorative elements.

– To protect the decorations and give them a glossy finish, apply a coat of varnish or sealant. This will also keep them from getting damaged over time.

– Take a moment to inspect the added details and decorations , making any necessary adjustments to improve their overall appearance.

– Be patient and allow ample time for the glue, paint, and varnish to dry completely before moving or handling the miniature sailboat.

Testing and Setting Sail

As we delve into the thrilling section of “ Testing and Setting Sail ” in our article on “ How To Make A Miniature Sailboat ,” get ready to embark on an exciting adventure. We’ll explore the essential steps in this process, including preparing for launch , selecting the right conditions , and monitoring and adjusting the sailboat. So, hold onto your hats and let’s navigate the waters of sailboat testing together!

1. Preparing for Launch

To effectively prepare for the launch of a miniature sailboat, it is important to follow these steps:

1. Assess the weather conditions: Before launching, it is crucial to check the weather forecast. Look out for calm winds and clear skies, as this will ensure smooth sailing and minimize any accidents.

2. Position the boat properly: Ensure that the sailboat is placed in a clear area, away from rocks or other boats. This will provide enough space for maneuverability.

3. Secure the mast and sails: Double-check that the mast and sails are securely attached. This is essential for effective wind-catching and to ensure a smooth sailing experience.

4. Inspect the rigging and accessories: Take the time to examine the rigging and accessories, such as ropes, pulleys, and hooks. Make sure they are in good condition and properly connected to prevent any mishaps or malfunctions.

5. Conduct a final safety check: Before launching, perform a thorough safety check. Confirm that all necessary safety equipment, including life jackets and flotation devices, are on board and easily accessible.

6. Position the sailboat in the water: Carefully place the sailboat in the water, ensuring that it floats steadily. Avoid any sudden movements or excessive force during this process.

7. Adjust the sails: Based on the wind conditions, adjust the sails accordingly. Raise and trim them for optimal performance and speed.

8. Launch the sailboat: Release the sailboat into the water gently, either by pushing it or releasing it from a docking position. Observe its movement and make any necessary adjustments for a successful launch.

By following these steps, you can effectively prepare your miniature sailboat for a successful launch and enjoy a pleasant sailing experience.

2. Selecting the Right Conditions

Selecting the Right Conditions

When setting sail with your miniature sailboat , it is crucial to select the right conditions. Here are a few key steps to follow:

1. Analyze wind patterns and carefully choose a location that offers consistent and steady wind direction. By doing so, you can ensure smoother sailing and a more enjoyable experience.

2. Before embarking on your sailboat adventure, make sure to check the weather forecast. Avoid sailing on days when strong winds, storms, or unfavorable conditions are expected. This will help you steer clear of potential risks and hazards.

3. Look for calm waters with gentle waves for optimal stability and maneuverability. Avoid areas known for strong currents, rapids, or turbulent waters as they can greatly affect your sailboat’s performance.

4. It is important to select a location that provides ample space for your sailboat to navigate freely. Avoid crowded areas to minimize the risk of collisions and enhance your overall safety.

5. Opt for a location with good visibility to easily keep an eye on your sailboat. Avoid areas with dense fog, limited visibility, or high traffic, as they can hinder your ability to navigate effectively.

By diligently following these steps and carefully selecting the right conditions, you can have a safe and enjoyable sailing experience with your miniature sailboat .

3. Monitoring and Adjusting the Sailboat

Monitoring and adjusting the sailboat is crucial for optimal performance on the water. By following these steps, you can ensure that your miniature sailboat is in top condition:

Regularly check the balance of your sailboat to make sure it is evenly weighted and not leaning to one side. This will help maximize its performance.

Observe the wind direction and any changes in speed. Adjust the sails accordingly to harness the power of the wind effectively.

Monitor the position of the rudder to control the sailboat’s direction. Make small adjustments as needed to stay on course.

Pay close attention to the water conditions. If the waters are rough or choppy, you may need to make adjustments to the rigging or sails. It is important to ensure that everything is secure and properly adjusted for safe navigation.

Continuously monitor the sailboat’s speed and be ready to make changes to the sails or rigging to either increase or decrease speed as desired.

It is essential to take note of any issues or malfunctions that may arise. Address problems such as loose lines or a broken mast before continuing your sailing adventure.

By following these steps , you can effectively monitor and adjust your miniature sailboat , providing you with a successful and enjoyable sailing experience.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Looking to keep your miniature sailboat seaworthy? In this section, we’ll tackle troubleshooting and maintenance to ensure smooth sailing. From addressing balance and stability issues to repairing damages and wear, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll reveal tips for keeping your sailboat shipshape through proper cleaning and storage practices. Get ready to take charge of your miniature vessel’s longevity and performance!

1. Handling Balance and Stability Issues

Handling Balance and Stability Issues

To effectively handle balance and stability issues in a miniature sailboat, it is important to follow these steps:

1. Check the alignment of the keel and rudder to ensure that the keel is securely in place and that the rudder is properly aligned with the centerline of the boat.

2. Adjust the position of the mast by moving it either forward or backward in order to determine the ideal balance point. Moving the mast forward will increase weather helm , while moving it backward will increase lee helm .

3. Modify the shape of the sail by adjusting the tension on the halyard and cunningham lines in order to control the sail draft. A flatter sail shape can help reduce heeling and improve stability.

4. Trim the sails by making small adjustments to the main and jib sheets in order to achieve proper sail trim. Over-trimming the sails can lead to excessive heeling, while under-trimming can result in poor performance.

5. If the boat continues to be unstable even after making adjustments, consider adding small weights to the keel or hull. This can help lower the boat’s center of gravity and enhance stability.

Pro-tip: Achieving the perfect balance and stability in a miniature sailboat may require some trial and error. Experiment with different adjustments and take note of their effects on the boat’s performance.

2. Repairing Damages and Wear

When repairing damages and wear on a miniature sailboat , follow these steps for proper maintenance and longevity:

1. Identify the damage: Inspect the sailboat for cracks, scratches, or broken parts.

2. Gather necessary tools and materials: Prepare epoxy resin, sandpaper, paint, and replacement parts if needed.

3. Prepare the damaged area: Clean and remove debris, using sandpaper to create a suitable surface.

4. Repair the damage: Apply epoxy resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring a secure bond.

5. Sand and paint: After the repair has cured, sand the area for a smooth finish. Use matching paint for a seamless appearance.

6. Inspect and test: Carefully check for any remaining damages and test the sailboat’s functionality.

7. Maintain regularly: Clean and maintain the sailboat regularly to prevent further wear and damage.

By following these steps, you can effectively repair damages and wear on your miniature sailboat , ensuring its continued functionality and enjoyment. Proper maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your sailboat and ensuring many happy sailing adventures.

3. Cleaning and Proper Storage

To ensure the longevity and enjoyment of your miniature sailboat, it is essential to follow these steps for cleaning and proper storage:

1. Begin by rinsing the sailboat with freshwater immediately after sailing. This will effectively remove saltwater and debris.

2. Allow the sailboat to thoroughly air dry before storing it. This step is crucial in preventing the growth of mold or mildew.

3. When cleaning the hull, gently scrub away any dirt or stains using mild soap and water. Rinse with freshwater to ensure a thorough clean.

4. Carefully remove the sails and inspect them for any dirt or damage. Clean the sails using mild soap and water, making sure to rinse them thoroughly. It is important to allow the sails to completely dry before storing them.

5. Take the time to check the rigging for any signs of wear or damage. Use a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated.

6. Find a secure, temperature-controlled storage area that is dry. This will protect the sailboat from potential damage. Ideally, store the sailboat on a rack or shelf to avoid placing unnecessary pressure on the hull.

By following these cleaning and proper storage practices, you can extend the lifespan of your miniature sailboat and enjoy it for years to come.

Some Facts About How To Make A Miniature Sailboat:

• ✅ Making a miniature sailboat requires basic woodworking skills. (Source: SailChecker)
• ✅ There are many online tutorials and videos available that provide step-by-step instructions on making a miniature sailboat. (Source: The Spruce Crafts)
• ✅ The materials needed to make a miniature sailboat include wood, glue, paint, and fabric for the sail. (Source: Model Boat Builder)
• ✅ Miniature sailboats can be made in various sizes, from small tabletop models to larger display pieces. (Source: Model Yachting)
• ✅ Building a miniature sailboat is a fun and creative project that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. (Source: The Artful Parent)

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Make Your Own Quick and Easy Zip Tie & Ply Mini Boat - Maximum Fun for the Least Money!

Introduction: Make Your Own Quick and Easy Zip Tie & Ply Mini Boat - Maximum Fun for the Least Money!

Intro, Braving the elements?

I'm entering this build for the 'brave the elements' contest as this project has enabled me to get out there and experience the elements in my local environment. I live in a town which is surrounded on three sides by water, in the middle of a river estuary. I am not a good swimmer as I was brought up miles from the sea in Manchester, which is why I always wear a full Atlantic life - jacket. I have always wanted a boat, but found them out of my budget, so when I found that I could download plans from the internet to make a boat with just two sheets of plywood. It was a no-brainer. The problem for me was, where would I make it? I realised that I could make it in the attic if I could get it down through the hatch.

I measured the hatch first to make sure I could get it down, which I did by hoisting it from the rafters. So I called my boat 'Attica'.

It costs very little and can be made easily with very basic skills in very little time. You need very simple tools and everything can be found on ebay, Amazon, or your local DIY store. It can be made by anyone with reasonable manual skills in a matter of days.

The 'stitch and glue' or 'sewn' method of boat construction is a tried and tested technique that has been used for centuries. The Vikings were known to use copper wire and resin. The earliest example of a 'sewn' boat is the 40+ metres long Egyptian funerary boat which dates back from 2600 BC.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sewn_boat

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stitch_and_glue

Nowadays, we can use zip ties and polyurethane glue and paint it with polymer paint (household emulsion!), You can make a better, stronger boat using epoxy resin and a fibreglass skin, but that is much harder to do and more expensive. (That will be my next Instructable!). This method is a good start to build experience and gives you a cheap, quick way to make a boat good for a season or two. This boat is amazing fun as it is easy to store, easy to transport and just loads of fun.

If you like it, please don't forget to vote for me (Just click the orange flag in the top right hand corner) Thanks.

Step 1: ​Design

There are many designs available for this construction method, including kayaks and sailing boats, but the design I chose uses free plans for the 'mouseboat' by Kevin Atkin as it was the smallest and simplest. It produces a very stable but manoeuvrable hull, with a shallow draft. It in turn is based on the Mirror dingy design, so called as it was sponsored by the Daily Mirror Newspaper in 1962 in a drive to bring cheaper sailing to the masses. The free plans are available here and come with full instructions to mark out on your plywood.

http://www.duckworksbbs.com/plans/gavin/mouse/

This 'mouseboat is about the same width as a kayak, but has a truncated design that is easier to store, ( I carried mine up and down 5 flights of stairs as I kept it in a closet in my flat.) It is easy to transport on top of a regular car roofrack too.

Step 2: Disclaimer and Safety Advice

This tutorial is just to show you the construction method. It is up to you if you decide that your boat is seaworthy! Using one that you have built through these instructions is entirely at your own risk. I recommend that you always wear a lifejacket, don't go out further than you can swim and not in adverse weather or where currents can drift you out. These currents can be surprisingly strong. Always tether your paddle so you can't lose it overboard. Always check your boat before going out, especially for cracks or splits in the wood or leaks in the seams. You made it so you can repair it! When cutting, sanding, glueing or painting, it's always advisable to wear gloves and eye protection as well as a face mask. You don't want to breathe in the fine particles of wood dust or get splinters or irritating chemicals on your skin. Always read the safety advice. I found the polyurethane glue melted latex gloves so read the manufacturers information carefully. As I am not a confident swimmer, I chose to fill the fore and aft sections with waterproof expanding foam, therefore with no possibility of it becoming waterlogged. I also wear a full 'Atlantic' lifejacket at all times. The closest time I have come to capsizing, however, ironically, is when I was nearly swamped by the inshore lifeboat! The wake on that thing at full speed is phenomenal. This boat is really only suitable for inshore, lake, canal, or river use. I found that even relatively small waves would lap over the decks and run into the boat. For that reason, I later built a deck spray using waterproof material, which proved to be very effective. I have been fishing half a mile off shore in calm conditions. The wake from other vessels being the greatest hazard.

Step 3: Materials

The plywood is standard 4 foot by 8 foot (1.22 m × 2.44 m). (You don't even need expensive 'marine ply' as it will be completely sealed with the paint and glue and the glue is very strong). 6mm may seem very thin, but it needs to be flexible enough to form into the boat shape and doing so will make it much stronger. Note also that it is the water that supports your weight!

2 Sheets marine plywood or good quality WBP plywood 6mm (¼”) 4’ x 8’ (1.22 m × 2.44 m)

4 Pieces pine wood 12 mm (½”) x 18mm (¾”) x 8’ (2.44m)

4 Tubes PL Construction waterproof glue (I used PU18 from eBay

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/4-X-HIGH-STRENGHT-POLYUR...

50mm wide Fibreglass tape about 15 m (50ft)

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Fibreglass-tape-50mmx90m...

Stainless steel screws about m6 & m8 size.

Zip ties (about 50 1/4" )

Clamps (most pound shops have these, you can't have too many! see my pictures)

Household emulsion and primer

Step 4: ​Tools

A tape measure and metal rule

A 't' square

A meter rule

Drill and bits

A sharp craft knife

A Surform or sharp traditional plane

A glue tube applicator 'gun'

Lots of rags

White spirit & turpentine (for cleaning up the glue and paint brushes)

Step 5: Construction

The instructions downloaded in the zip file along with the plans, have a sheet of measurements which you can mark up on the plywood. (I can't reproduce them here for copyright reasons) It uses a 'datum' point and measurements from that across and down the plywood. With those you mark a series of crosses and just join up the points to create your panel outlines. I laid mine out on my living room floor. As you will be drawing large curves, it's best to find a long flexible object, such as a piece of plastic pipe or flexible wooden batten, to give a smoother line. Once you have drawn the panels out you can cut them out very easily with a jigsaw, which goes through like butter. Next you carefully drill holes along all the edges that are to be joined every 10cm (6") and about 6mm (1/4") in from the edge. These need to be large enough to take the zip ties. Check after the first one. When all the holes are done, turn the ply wood over and sand off the rough burrs, watching out that you don't get splinters in your hands. Use the zip ties to join the two ends and the middle of each panel together first, then all the ones in between. Be careful not to pull them so tight that they damage the wood or pull it out of a smooth curve. You will find that the thin flexible ply will now be a lot stronger when it is formed into the proper boat shape. You now need to cover the joins with fibreglass tape. Make sure that you use plenty of glue as this will seal the gaps. I found I needed to put more glue on top of the tape, to soak in and make a smooth finish. (Don't be confused about the black and white glue in the picture, as I ordered more glue from a cheaper provider and it was black. It's essentially the same PU18). Once all the seams are done and have been given the required time to cure, you then have to add the inner bulkheads and the edging strips. These are screwed in place and then also glued around the joins. The clamps are used to hold it all together while the glue dries. After everything is complete and the glue is dry, you need to sand the whole thing all over to give a good 'key' for the paint. Household emulsion is actually plastic (polyurethane) and will help to seal the wood, but you will need primer and then at least two coats of gloss after sanding down each coat. Good sanding is the most tedious part of the process, but it will greatly improve the quality of the finished boat. I used a slightly heavier ply for the decks and varnished with exterior quality varnish. It is also good to round the edges of the wood strips, first using the surform and then sandpaper to get a smooth finish. You will be glad of any rounded edges when you are handling the boat later on. I did a leak test by filling it with water and found only one small leak where I'd forgotten to fill a zip tie hole securing the inner bulkhead. I glued in two pieces of staircase handrail to support the seat and provide a useful carrying/tie down bar. The seat, which is bungeed in, is just a waterproof cushion for an outdoor chair. The base of that being a couple of pieces of ply with a brass hinge. I also found some plastic deck cleats and a fishing rod holder on eBay. I made my paddle from a 5ft (150cm) long piece of curtain rail and two off cuts of thicker ply.

Step 6: Having Fun Out on the Water

I've had some amazing adventures, including long expeditions up rivers and off shore fishing trips. I found that wherever I went there was a lot of interest. Even a girl from the local sailing school who drew along side on a paddle board, said that they were all admiring my boat. Everyone wants to know where I got it from. The fact that you have made something instead of buying it, just adds to the enjoyment. Not only that, it works out at a fraction of the cost of a plastic kayak!

Step 7: Future Project

They say that once you have caught the bug it's hard to stop. My next project which I have already started, will be a better sea going version made with epoxy seams and then fibreglassed. It will incorporate skate wheels, so I don't always have to carry it. It will also have lights and a 12v bilge pump as well as the facility to add an electric trolling motor. Watch this space!

If you like my project, please don't forget to vote for me (Just click the orange flag in the top right hand corner) Thanks.

Runner Up in the Zip Tie Challenge

First Prize in the Brave the Elements Contest

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US Army boats head out on a mission to build a floating pier off Gaza’s shore for food deliveries

Soldiers of LLV Monterrey from 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary) prepare to deploy to the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Va. (AP Photo/John C. Clark)

A group of soldiers from 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary) wave to the crew of LLV Monterey as it pulls out from port on a humanitarian mission to Gaza, on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Va. (AP Photo/John C. Clark)

Soldiers from 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary), 3rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command, make final preparations on LSV SP/4 James A. Loux before deploying to the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Va. The Loux will be supporting the construction of a floating pier off the coast of Gaza for delivery of humanitarian aid. (AP Photo/John C. Clark)

BG John “Brad” Hinson, commander of 3rd Expedition Sustainment Command and Assistant Commanding General (Supply) of XVIII Airborne Corps, speaks during a press conference pertaining to four army watercraft deploying to Gaza for delivery of humanitarian aid on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Va. (AP Photo/John C. Clark)

CW3 Jason West, left, skipper for LSV SP/4 James A. Loux, 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary), stands with his family before deploying on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Va. (AP Photo/John C. Clark)

LSV SP/4 James A. Loux heads down the James River for a deployment to the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Va. The watercraft will build and operate a floating pier in support of a humanitarian mission to Gaza. (AP Photo/John C. Clark)

Soldiers from 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary), 3rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command, enter the mess galley on Large Land Craft Monterey on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Va. The Monterey was one of four army watercraft deploying to Gaza for a humanitarian aid mission. (AP Photo/John C. Clark)

Col. Sam Miller, commander of 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary), speaks to media before units from his brigade deploy to Gaza in support of a humanitarian mission on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Va. (AP Photo/John C. Clark)

Soldiers give the crew of the LLV Monterey a box of snack bars before the Monterey leaves for deployment to the Gaza Strip for a humanitarian mission on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Va. (AP Photo/John C. Clark)

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Four U.S. Army boats, loaded with tons of equipment and steel pier segments, left Virginia on Tuesday, heading to Gaza as part of the U.S. effort to expand the delivery of food and other supplies to starving Palestinians as Israel’s war against Hamas drags on.

The ships pulled out of docks at Joint Base Langley-Eustis and headed down the James River toward the Atlantic Ocean for what could be a month-long voyage to the Mediterranean Sea. There, at a yet-to-be-announced location along the Gaza shore, they will build and begin to operate a floating dock to receive the aid.

Since Hamas militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, Israel’s military has battered the territory, killing more than 30,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, and creating a humanitarian catastrophe . The U.N. says virtually all of Gaza’s 2.3 million people are struggling to find food. But getting humanitarian aid to the area has been difficult, due to the ongoing hostilities and struggles to coordinate with the Israeli military, which has blocked routes and slowed deliveries due to inspections.

The latest Pentagon plan calls for the U.S. military to build what is called a modular causeway system. Off shore, the Army will build a large floating platform where ships can unload large containers of aid. Then the aid will be transferred by the Army to a motorized string of steel causeway sections that have been pushed to the shore.

That pier is expected to be as much as 1,800 feet (550 meters) long, with two lanes, and the Pentagon has said it could accommodate the delivery of more than 2 million meals a day for Gaza residents. Officials have not said who will be unloading the containers and taking the aid ashore. President Joe Biden has said there will be no U.S. troops on the ground in Gaza.

On Tuesday, as family members and senior Army commanders watched, about 70 soldiers with the 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary) pulled away from the docks in four U.S. Army vessels: the USAV Wilson Wharf, USAV Matamoros and USAV Monterrey, all Army landing crafts, and the larger USAV SP4 James A. Loux, a logistics support watercraft.

The brigade’s commander, Army Col. Sam Miller, said about 500 of his soldiers will participate in the mission. All together, Pentagon officials have said about 1,000 U.S. troops will be involved.

Calling it a complicated mission, Miller said the transit will take about a month, but it will depend on weather and any possible high seas. The actual construction, he said, will take about a week, but that also could be hampered by weather. Then it will take additional time to get the delivery process coordinated with those providing the aid and the system up and running. Defense officials have said it will take about two months to get the deliveries started.

The Army’s vessels and maritime capabilities are unique and not as well known as the Navy’s. The last time the 7th Transportation Brigade did a similar mission to construct a large pier was in Haiti in 2010. But it has participated in a number of major military exercises.

“The soldiers here are energized, they’re motivated, they’re excited,” Miller said, adding that the new humanitarian mission “gives them purpose and meaning” and highlights the Army’s watercraft. He noted that just 36 hours after Biden ordered the operation, the first Army vessel — the USAV General Frank S. Besson logistics ship — left Joint Base Langley-Eustis on Saturday.

Miller said a larger Maritime Sealift Command ship will also be leaving Virginia in the coming days, and will be carrying some of the bigger equipment and more of the steel pier segments.