kmrmike

I built a Spindrift 11 with 5lb foam core, and the finished weight according to graham is about 20lbs heaver than a standard Spindrift. Mind you now my glass layups were of my own chosing(I think overkill on glass).And the cost was at least 2 times the wood price..But i'm glad I did it this way just for the experience. Iv'e had it for a couple years and enjoy it very much...Mike

In Florida you would have to register all boats 12 foot and up..I built a Spindrift 11...Mike

Looks like a great time!! Nice photos and beautiful boat...I can still dream until work tomorrow!...Mike

hirilonde, My Spindrift is foam and fiberglass construction, so I'm safe in that respect...Mike

I constructed My CB from foam and glass and used glass fibers in the leading edge. although I have had no problems, if I were to make another I would do the rope trick...you will probably hear from others that it is very wear resistant...Mike

Greg, it is an 11n , however I decided not to make the cut at this time. I probably should have purchased the standard 11 plans...Mike

The weather and heat here in Florida being what it is, I decided to take Tom Lathrop

Wow! What a story! I wish for your sake it would have been just a bad dream. It's too bad those challanges you face couldn't have been closer to home. With your expertise, I'm sure things will work out fine. so sorry about the damage. By the way, are you related to Stephen King?...the suspense was a killer!!

Hey, Charlie, it looks like your gona pass pretty close to Port ST. Lucie, FL. I can be at the Saint Lucie Inlet anytime you say...Just pick me up!!! OK I already know the answer to that!! Good Luck...Mike

Majuro, I see Peter H posted the site of the Spindrift Composite. I'm the builder and if you have any questions I'll be happy to help...if I can. I don't consider myself a professional builder, I just try to fix my mistakes as I go along...And learn something along the way...Mike...I have a great time when I take the boat out for a cruise, and so far I have had no structural problems....Good Luck!

Scott, Congrat's on your launch. The boat looks great!. I have had plans for a CS 20 for quite some time but can't seem to make room in my garage. After seeing you bring it through the doorway, I must have more room than I realize!..Good luck..Mike

I was hoping to hear from someone of your experience and respect your comments..And will stick to the original plans if I continue on with the build. Thanks..Mike

I've been thinking about building a 1962 vintage hydroplane featured in Science and Mechanics Magazine. there were two hydroplanes I know of from this era and the one I've chosen is a 2 place at 13 feet 7 inches. The other hydro was a 4 place and 14 foot length, only 5 inches different but a 4 place machine. I would like to add about 1 foot length to the one I choose to make it a 4 place version and would like some input regarding these changes...Thanks..Mike

I've used an 1985 2.2 HP merc on my Spindrift 11 and it does not get up on plane. However, I built a fiberglass composite Spindrift and according to Graham it weighs about 20 lbs more than one built of wood. Weight 119 lbs without paint...Mike

I had the oportunity to go see the start of the race and have some photos to share. Hope they upload ok..Mike Video link.. http://s231.photobucket.com/albums/ee6/kmrmike/Everglades%20Challenge%20Video/?action=view&current=V6.flv http://s231.photobucket.com/albums/ee6/kmrmike/Everglades%20Challenge%20Video/?action=view&current=V2.flv

I have 7' oars for my Spindrift 11, and like Hirlonde, they are full length and tend to get in the way.But I intend to make them stowable some day when I get sick of triping over them...Mike

Very nice job! I like the color and the gloss!! Good luck...Mike

WoW!!! What a great job!!...I see a true craftsman at work...not much room to work but very organized!!! I'm simply jealous!!!....Mike

Some folks use a product like Dynel or Xynole and apply like fiberglass. It is supposed to have good abrasion resistant properties. I have never used it but maybe someone else can advise you on its application

Tom, Thanks for youy insite on my mishap On the trailer I have 4 2x6 pieces covered with outdoor carpeting which can pivot slightly for hull support...Just can't see it from the pictures...Mike

Thanks for all your positive responses!! I intend to go sailing as much as time permits and learn more and more each time. NOW, about that "Honey Do List"...where did I put that?...Guess I'll just have to go sailing!! Jeff, I got back on to the boat at the stern as did someone else who capsized and wrote on this forum. And I'm in my early 60's. I think this was the most difficult for me but doable. I too was going to buy a boat trailer from Harbor Freight but then I would have to make it custom to my needs anyway so decided to go custom all the way...Plus mine is aluminum and I think it will fair better in the salt water....Mike

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What a GREAT!!! DAY for you Norm !! Congratulations and good luck!! I could barely see the boat through that big ear to ear grin!!...Mike

Scott , I can't believe the room your pictures portray for the size of the Belhaven! Great photos and excellent workmanship!! You should be proud!!...Mike

Today I received the results of the wood samples I sent to USDA Forest Service Lab. The Sample wood is called Swietenia, a type of Mahogany native to Florida, Cuba, Jamaica, and Hispaniola. Does anyone know whether or not this type of wood is good for boat building or trim??...Mike