Planks, Plywood??

I am getting started, drawing patterns and getting
things together.

I am not able to do this alone, some limitations.

The person that is going to help me has some wooden
boat experience.

He thinks that the boat is way over built, because it was
planked originally, we are going to use plywood.

I think it maybe a little over done!

This is the boat:

http://members.aol.com/polysail/HTML/conga.htm

The keel logs are what we think is over done?

I would also prefer A dagger board, that is no big deal.

I really like the "look" of this boat. I raced one for
a doctor in the late 70's. It was a 12 footer, looked
just like this, and did not have the logs down the center!
And I think the boat had only three frames! And it had a
dagger board. It was ballasted. I think it weighted about
80lbs.

Also, my post about the framed mast got no replies, I
just need to know if anyone sees a problem with that
type of mast?

My question is, is the plywood build, a stiffer boat than
a planked one? Also, it should be lighter, requiring less
framing?

Does anyone know of a boat similar to this that is like
what I described?

Thanks in advance.

BHOFM

That means,, Bald Header Old Fat Man

 

I suppose most all boats of long ago were heavy compared to modern boats, and a lot of old designs have been redrawn in plywood.
I couldn't open the pictures of the boat in question, but maybe you could find a plan using plywood. I would investigate before simply redesigning the boat yourself, even with the help of a boat builder--- that is, unless he is also a good designer.
The modern plywood boat will be stronger for it's weight, and stiffer, but possibly not nearly as rugged as the older build.
In any case, plywood is absolutely the way to go if the hull is hard-chined. with epoxy seams, glassed for strength, the boat could outlast us all if well cared for.
However, if you like the classic look and you're a purist, go with the older build and do it exactly as shown in the drawings.

Alan

 

Thank you for your quick reply.

I have a second choice, but it is an open boat, I could
add the deck and use the sail plan of the first choice.

It has only two frames and has cross seats that act
as two more. The length and beam are the same.

More to do, more to do, more to do!

Thanks again, your answer is what I was thinking as well,
now I know I need to do some more looking!

 

hi
Im pretty new here myself
Im going to second Allan on the idea having an experienced naval architect do your design work
and consult on your alterations

luck favors the prepared my friend

 

My second choice is looking better!

It is much simpler and will be lighter as well!

Thanks again for the advice.

It looks like this: