Wednesday, March 07, 2007

Randy's Boat

As with many of our projects we are often asked why. Why would someone put that much money into a boat. In this case likely $30,ooo when done. The answer is quite simple, you can not buy a better built craft for less money. And there are several bonuses that go along with a restoration project of this nature.
Pros:
  • you get what you want in the finished project
  • changes can be made as the job continues
  • you don't have to lay out a huge amount of cash initially, you dole it out as needed or as you can afford
  • anything can be modified to your liking, from color to amenities offered.
Cons:
  • you have to wait to play with your boat, it takes time
  • there are always unforeseen problems that come up
  • it always cost more than estimated
  • life gets in the way of your dream project
  • you could lose interest due to the time frame
Randy's project was started a couple of years ago and although she has not been worked on steady since the beginning, it will take the better part of another year to finish. All that being said, this has been about as severe a project that you would ever want to tackle but the end product will be a very strong, solid, well made vessel which will last for many years of service at a fraction of the cost of a comparable craft.

There is also a tremendous amount of pride in being able to say, I built her even if you had every aspect of it contracted out to other professionals, the ideas and concepts will still be yours. This alone can be worth the price even if it cost more than a new boat.

Warning, do not start such a project unless you are sure you can afford the time, the commitment and the on going cost, not to forget getting your hands dirty. You must also be sure you either have the skills or that you can get the needed help and information needed, because there are many factors to consider and safety is of utmost priority. But in the end, if you stick it out, your pride alone could sail her.

Click the title link for more photos.

I plan to publish a book with full description of how the work was done, the materials used, what to watch for and general help on many topics with many more photos and drawings.
Publish
More sites at zeek.ca