The Maiden Voyage

The attached photos will depict the boat on its maiden voyage in Bogue Sound between Morehead City & Atlantic Beach, NC.  We launched the boat on sunday afternoon with an approximate 8-10 knot south wind.  The boat is not equipped with a motor so getting away from the boat ramp/dock proved to be the greatest challenge.  However, once we were "at sail" this little boat really impressed me with its speed and seaworthiness.

By the way--a couple of the photos depict my boat resting on a sandbar ----- that was done intentionally for a rest.  We did not "run-a-ground" :-)

For those that are looking for a good first-time boat to build, I would recommend this Corsair 13 model (plans were about $60).  Be prepared to spend a little more money than the $900-1200 that the plans estimate. Then again--- I did not skimp on materials (especially the hardware).  I had about $500 in marine plywood. Remember to also figure on a trailer to haul it with($425).  I purchased 2 quarts of primer and 2 quarts of topcoat paint.  Each quart averaged $40.  I used almost 2 gallons more epoxy resin /hardner ($110 each) than the plans originally called for but I think it was well worth it in terms of making the boat seaworthy.  The sails were purchased through Bateau.com ($600). Most of the hardware was purchased from West Marine however, I also found Mauri Pro Sail out of Texas to be very fast & service-oriented (hardware totaled about $400).  The mast was givemn to me and I made the boom from an old sunfish boom.) I have about $100 in new lines for the boat.  Total cost= about $2850-$3000.

It has been a great experience but I don't plan to start another one anytime soon!

"I'd rather be sailing"