Hydrotek supplier in the southeast?

[sscoville]

I'm in Georgetown, SC - between Charleston and Myrtle Beach.  I have a supplier in Charleston that can get me Ocume, but I'm looking for a Hydrotek supplier.  Any information would be appreciated.

[cdunc]

Just curious who is your supplier in SC for the Ocume?

[John Burritt]

Haven't seen hydrotek around for awhile.  World Panel Products, locations in FL & NC (as well as MI), sells "hydrocore" as well as Okoumi & Sapelle plus other interesting woods.  Hydrocore is about 50% heavier than Okoumi, but quite a bit stronger & stiffer than the same thickness Okoumi. (See their comparison page)  We used it to build a bunch of Opti prams for a local kids' sailing program.  The boats survived their first long summer with only the damage that comes from heavy use by kids.  They're back at it this summer.  Can't tell you the exact species of supposedly sustainable African tree.  Lots of info on their web site.

[Oyster]

I just got some today from World Panel. They have been quite slow business wise from what I gather but are nice folks . They have also changed from their original supplier now and supposed to be better since they were also dealing with some of the same issues as other suppliers were experiencing and thats some iffy stuff. But the pricey stuff such as the Shelmarine and the likes is way out of my league.

[sscoville]

I get Ocume through my local lumber yard which gets it from McEwen Lumber (part of Hood Distribution) in Charleston.  I think they'll sell it retail if you buy at least $500.00 worth.  I get great prices through my local yard.  1/4 inch is 43 dollars and some change.  3/4 is 116 dollars and some change.  I called McEwen and asked where they get it.  I was told "Navy Ply."  It's also supposed to be BS1088 - I've been assured that it is.  Can't find any info on Navy Ply though.  I think they're out of FL.

I'm considering building a shanty boat and Hydrotek sounds like it would be best when weight does not matter.  When I called McEwen, the lady I talked with had never heard of it.