Shrimp boat trawler conversion.

Discussion in 'Boatbuilding' started by babygirl, Mar 19, 2012.

  1. babygirl
    Joined: Feb 2012
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    babygirl New Member

    Interested in opinions/insite regarding converting a (small) classic nearshore " shrimp boat" for use as a recreational / liveaboard trawler. With retirement in sight, I have been casually investigating different boats in the 40'-60' range to use as an inshore / nearshore trawler - part time liveaboard for two . With so many of these little workhorses being mothballed because of the hardships of the industry and having always admired the classic lines and grace of Shrimping fleet of the SE USA , I am considering a refit conversion for my intended use.( glass or glass/epoxy over wood hull ) I realize draft may be an issue for inside cruising . My concern is with all the rigging, winches ect.... removed , the deck house extended aft and below deck space converted to non commercial use. Would this have a negative effect on the " attitude " of the displacement hull. I realize there are many additional factors/concers that would go along with such a project but this seems like a good place to begin a discussion. Thanks in advance for any input.
     
  2. J Feenstra
    Joined: Jan 2012
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    J Feenstra Junior Member

    Removing weight without checking the shift in LCG can effects the handling of the ship, but if you can counteract this problem, this trawler idea can sail a long way, cause trawlers usually were build to last.
     
  3. sabahcat
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    sabahcat Senior Member

  4. keysdisease
    Joined: Mar 2006
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    keysdisease Senior Member

    This is a pretty common conversion, if you can get your hands on one, St Augustine trawlers make a bunch of 80 footers in fiberglass for Singleton Shrimp back in the 80's that would make a sweet conversion.

    I wouldn't worry about trim too much for your intended use. The range of loading for these vessels is pretty wide and I can't imagine a conversion making one "too light."

    You may also want to take a look at this discussion about the same thing we had aways back:

    http://www.boatdesign.net/forums/motorsailers/conversion-shrimp-trawler-37168.html


    Steve
     
  5. CatBuilder

    CatBuilder Previous Member

    It's quite viable and a good way to get a lot of boat for short money. I looked at doing the same, but my personal preferences steered me to continue sailing. The biggest obstacle to the conversion for me was the cost per hour to run one. They don't have many set up as true trawlers. You will find huge engines. I'd get a good steel one though. There are lots to choose from, though many south Americans have picked through the market already.
     
  6. hoytedow
    Joined: Sep 2009
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    hoytedow Carbon Based Life Form

    Welcome, babygirl.

    The biggest obstacle you may encounter is getting the smell of dead shrimp out of the boat. Give it the sniff test before putting any money down.
     
  7. CatBuilder

    CatBuilder Previous Member

    No question about it. I think you have to gut, pressure wash and sand blast the whole interior before you can rebuild a yacht inside.
     

  8. topbog
    Joined: Dec 2011
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    Location: Fernandina Beach

    topbog New Member

    Thanks for the input, The odor factor is a concern without question !
     
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