Help with Skiff Design

[Bill the Cat]

While waiting on shipments of epoxy for my current project - I became fascinated by these FAO designed fishing boats FAO Boats and this sweet little fiberglass skiff The Caribiana. So to pass the time and not watch too much TV - I drew a set of plans that sorta hybrids both.

It is a simple single chine skiff with 11% deadrise from amidship through the transom. I anticipate it being built stitch & glue and am continuing research to determine adequate scantlings. I've been able to create a table of of hydrostatic values for displacements from 1000 to 2000 lbs - thanks to Vacanti & Carene software - but what other information do I need to know to say such a vessel is practical?

My current thoughts are:
Store the fuel & batteries (properly seperated) under the front deck.
HP requirements - 35-70 hp - but the lighter the better.
Bare hull weight is 700lbs or perhaps 10% lighter
Side benches act as sponsons
PDF and other light stuff under the rear deck.

Finally - if I can add a few more skillsets to the arsenal - I would love to design this in a 4 panel plywood lapstrake.

[gonzo]

Try "Boat Strenght" by Dave Gerr , International Marine/McGraw Hill. I think the batteries forward will take a beating. They will be more protected in the center console. Also, the extra weight at the bow will make the boat pound harder.

[Bill the Cat]

Gerr's book is in transport .... heck it's been in transport for a week...dang Amazon.

I see the reasoning for moving the batteries aft - they are large & dense - I'll refigure CG and see what the move gets me.

Thanks