Hull: LOA 14'0", LWL 12'7", Beam 4'10", Draft 8". Trailing weight (not yet measured)

Rig: Gaff sloop. Main 63 sq ft, Jib 22 sq ft.

The hull parts of high quality marine ply, including bulkheads, were purchased from http://www.swallowboats.com.

All hardwood was recycled mahogany taken from the lounge of my home!

For stages of construction visit the Galleries section.

Work Log

I kept a record of the actual time spent building 'Micro'. Because she was a 'one-off', every part of her had to be designed, made, fitted and finished. Therefore the time spent building her was quite high, ie., 476 hours.

To save time, I had the spars made by Bossoms Boatyard Ltd., Bisney Village, Oxford. OX2 0NL.

When undertaking a project such as this, consideration should be given to the time spent designing and the time spent collecting the components.

Cost

There are hidden costs to building a boat like 'Micro'. Had she been supplied totally in kit form, the cost would have been considerably less, but all parts, down to the smallest item were bought individually and had to be obtained from various places and suppliers. Originally, I planned to make a cheap boat, but as things developed, I wanted her to be made from the best quality materials. Hence the total cost to date is in the region of £3,500. (This includes the purchase of tools such as a reciprocal sander, jigsaw, clamps etc.) Nevertheless, it is quite astonishing, but when you compare it with the price of a new boat built professionally it is hugely cheaper.

Suppliers

The sails were made by Bohndell Sails, Commercial St., Rockport, ME 04856 and they were supplied by 'Dynamite' Payson of Instant Boat fame. http://www.instantboats.com

The road trailer was purchased from R.M. Trailers Ltd., Prospect Road, New Farm Ind Est, New Alresford, Hants. SO24 9QF. http://www.rmtrailers.co.uk

Conclusion

Building the boat presented me with various challenges and difficulties, but the outcome was very satisfying. On the whole it gave me much pleasure. Although I am very pleased with the result, I am already thinking about the next building project.

My advice to those considering doing something similar is, think hard and long, because it will require patience, some basic manual skills, tools, facilities such as a garage, money, and above all, a determination to finish the boat.

3nd July, 2001. Bill.