I really want to build a CS20.3. But I think it's a fairly big project, and so I wanted to see one in person. I was particularly interested in the cabin which there doesn't seem to be many photographs of. As we all know, Doug was my option! I sent him a message inviting myself to come look at his boat at his home in Tennessee, and he didn't say no, so last Friday, while delivering my dad's car to Florida, my nephew Alex and I went to Doug's place.
First of all, he really lives in God's country (sorry Dave). I'd never been to Tennessee, and it was beautiful. Doug's shop is the envy of anyone, and he was outside to meet me. We wasted no time looking over "Look Far". Doug was in the middle of making some changes since the Messabout. Since he was such a friendly host, I'll post this pic first, even though I took it last:
There are plenty of pictures of his boat on his blog and here, but it's hard to get perspective without seeing it in person. I was hesitant to ask, but Doug wasted no time in asking me to climb aboard and look things over. A deal breaker would be uncomfortable seating below. In this picture, I'm sitting against the bulkhead taking a selfie. I look a bit uncomfortable, but truth is I could have sat there for a long time. BTW, I'm 6' even. There wasn't much room above my head, so if you are say 6'2" I'd go visit Doug and decide for yourself! I imagined a backrest of some sort and a good book! The amazing thing was it seemed possible to sit at least four or five friends down below if conditions warranted it.
Doug pointed out the cavernous spot aft of the berths for storing clothes, sleeping bags, mattress pad, etc. There really is a big space there.
Forward of the berths is this nice platform for cooking, washing, or just a place to put my book and glasses at night. I am thinking food and cooking gear would be a natural for this location.
The berths below are certainly big. I like the fact they are sort of separated. I will have a variety of different people as guests, like my kids, and they are thrashers. It's good they have their "own" side. I think it would be easy to make a filler board for when my wife camps with me. The storage below is pretty shallow, but llok like they could swallow some gear. truthfully, it would be easy to add a lot of weight with all the storage. I need to avoid that!
This look into the cockpit shows a lot of seating room. That is important to me. I think those seats are wide enough to sleep under the stars.
Doug and I talked a bit about the cabin enclosure he fabricated. It looks really nice, but I'd like to make something that is rigid and lockable. I have a few ideas, but that might warrant its own thread!
Anyway, I left even more excited about the design than when I arrived. Thank you again Doug for your hospitality.
Take Care,
Steve