wanting

[ibadreamer]

i am wanting a catamaran bad. but i see they cost more money then i have. i am looking into building my own. anyone have any experience they could lend?
thanks

[Jeff]

Building a boat yourself is immensely rewarding, but is rarely if ever a money saver. You'll almost never be able to build cheaper than buying used, or a used boat needing some cosmetic attention, even if you discount the value of your own time.

[Nomad]

Could you tell us more about the boat you desire?? Size? Power? Sail? etc

[Jeff]

Yes please do - I'm sorry for sounding so negative in my previous post.

[ibadreamer]

i would like to build something around 36 to 40 feet. i have several sailing buddy's who are also interested in getting involved. i have a catalina 27 now. but want something i can do some traveling on. have been reading about tri hulls and catamarans. i like the look of the big cats but have read the tri hull is faster and better sailing.

[MikeJohns]

For the money you will be looking at sheet plywood designs to build, I would recommend a cat over a tri, better all round. Structurally superior, more space, less wetted surface, better stability. You could search for some of the Wharram designs. They seem to be the best low cost multihulls around in the pacific. I agree with Jeff though that the best option is an existing vessel if you can find one. Often you can find a boat that needs a few repairs at a fraction of the building cost.