home build sailboats

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plans (nearly 450 at present) and building manuals, CD’s and DVD’s.

The range of designs includes :-

covering plywood, strip plank and clinker ply construction as well as sail making.

When you go to order a plan you will have a choice of two Buy Now Buttons - one for the Printed Plans (to be sent by post) and the other for the electronic PDF version of the plan, which will be sent to your email address. 
Generally, the prices of the PDF versions for boats above dinghy size (where there is usually more than 4 sheets of A1 print), are lower than the printed versions, as no printing is involved. Once payment for your order has cleared, sending the PDF files attached to an email is almost immediate with no waiting for the post and with guaranteed delivery to any country.

and photos of the first launched. . plans. .   by Paul Fisher have been put up in a new section on the Sailer, Steam/Electric Launch, Steam Launch and the added. clinker motor launch added to the Motor Cruisers 21' to 30' page. almost complete added. added. design with more beam and hull depth, plus a new design, a added, one of which is built in two halves. and motor yachts and a photo of the finished . open strip planked motor cruiser. added. plans and a set of drawings and sketches has been added as an option to the 16' Curlew Motor Punt to make it into the . and the . . canoe plans. ; ; ; and models. .

After a youth messing around in all sorts of boats on the Thames, I gained my degree - a BSc (Bachelor of Science) in Naval Architecture and Shipbuilding from Newcastle University in 1974.

Straight after University l worked in the design office of McGruer & Co. Scotland for 4 years - famous for high performance racing /cruising yachts beautifully crafted in wood (cold moulded as well as conventional clinker and carvel). l then became Technical Manager at D.M. Russell Marine - formerly Jas. A. Silvers yard just up the road at Rosneath, for 5 years - famous for their motor yachts - this period found me sailing/cruising in all sorts of craft around the coast of the UK and regular racing in everything from Dragons to the IOR fleet on the Clyde.

or

- WOOD EPOXY

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How Much Does It Cost to Build a Sailboat?

If you're on a tight budget, there are ways to build a sailboat affordably and still end up with a seaworthy boat. You can choose to start completely from scratch or consider using a self-build kit. If you want to hop on a sailboat project, let me help you break down the costs of building one.

The average price range for building a sailboat from scratch is between $10,000 and $20,000. A self-build kit for a 17' sailboat can be purchased for $2,500, while a sail-away Puur 17 kit can cost between $14,000 and $18,000. Meanwhile, building a 21ft gaff-rigged cutter can cost between $33,000 and $35,000.

If you're building dinghies, you can expect to spend anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000, depending on the size and materials used. Let's look at the estimated costs of building other types of sailboats and what factors can affect these costs.

• If you are on a tight budget, you can try starting to build a basic dinghy, which only costs around $1,500.
• If you're building a smaller boat, try to use less expensive materials, such as plywood or fiberglass, to keep costs down.
• You can save a significant amount of money on labor costs—around $10,000 if you do all the building yourself.
• A plan includes information on the materials needed for construction, as well as step-by-step instructions for assembling the boat.
• A catamaran with a more complex design or more advanced features costs around $50,000–$500,000 to build.

On this page:

Breakdown of costs in building a sailboat, average cost of building different types of sailboats, how to build a sailboat on a budget.

The average price range for building a sailboat from scratch is between $10,000 and $20,000 , but this can be much higher if you want to build an extremely high-quality craft or if you live in an area that is especially expensive.

Below is a table showing the estimated range of costs when building a sailboat:

Consider the materials you will use and the amount you need

Some common materials used in sailboat construction include fiberglass, wood, aluminum, and steel. The estimated cost of each material is as follows:

If you plan to build an aluminum sailboat, you might want to check out its pros and cons .

Factor in the costs of equipment

Building a sailboat requires a variety of specialized tools and equipment, such as saws, sanders, drills, and clamps. In addition to these basic tools, there are also more specialized pieces of equipment that may be necessary, such as a planer, a router, and a jointer. The table below shows how much each of these equipment costs:

Take into account the costs of labor

If you have the skills and experience to build the boat yourself, you can save a significant amount of money on labor costs. However, building a sailboat is a time-consuming process, and you should factor in the value of your time when calculating the overall cost of the project.

If you hire a professional boat builder, the cost of labor can be quite high, based on the complexity of the boat and the builder's experience and expertise. Although hiring a professional builder can be more expensive, it can ensure that the boat is built to high standards and is seaworthy.

Budget for purchasing a plan

If you are building a sailboat from plans, you will need to purchase the plans themselves. A plan refers to a set of detailed instructions and diagrams for building a specific sailboat design. It includes information on the materials needed for construction, as well as step-by-step instructions for assembling the boat.

Plans for a smaller, simpler sailboat may cost a few hundred dollars, while plans for a larger, more complex sailboat may cost several thousand dollars. The plan also includes the estimated timeline for completing the boat construction process. Building a sailing yacht can take at least 10 - 24 months to complete .

Carefully evaluate different sailboat plans before making a purchase to ensure that they are suitable for your needs and skill level. You may also want to consult with a professional boat builder or designer to help you choose the right plans and provide guidance during the construction process.

Account for miscellaneous expenses

There are a variety of other expenses which can add up quickly and should be factored into the overall cost of the project, such as the following:

• Permits: Depending on the location where the sailboat is being built, there may be permits required for construction.
• Insurance: Sailboats are valuable assets and require insurance coverage to protect against damage, loss, or theft. Insurance premiums can be a significant expense, especially for larger sailboats. Read this article to see the current costs of sailboat insurance.
• Transportation: If the sailboat is being constructed in a location that is far from the water, transportation costs may be incurred to move the boat to the water. This can include fees for a trailer, a truck, or a professional boat transport company.
• Miscellaneous Materials: There may be other materials required for the project that are not included in the initial cost estimate, such as hardware such as screws, bolts, and fittings, which may need to be purchased separately.

Sailboats come in various types, each designed with different features and purposes. The type of sailboat you choose will affect the cost of building it. Here are some common types of sailboats and their average costs:

The cost of building a dinghy

Dinghies are small sailboats that are typically used for racing or leisure sailing. They are usually less than 20 feet long and are designed to be sailed by one or two people.

For a basic dinghy, the cost can be as low as $1,500. This would typically involve using plywood or fiberglass for the hull, and basic rigging and hardware. However, for a more high-end dinghy, the cost can be as much as $10,000 or more. This would typically involve using high-quality materials such as carbon fiber or Kevlar for the hull, and more advanced rigging and hardware.

The cost of building a daysailer

Daysailers are slightly larger than dinghies and are designed for sailors who want to enjoy a day on the water without the expense and maintenance of a larger boat. Daysailers come in a variety of designs, from traditional wooden boats to modern fiberglass models. Some popular brands of daysailers include the J/Boat, the Laser, and the Sunfish.

These types of sailboats can accommodate up to six people and are usually between 20 and 30 feet long. A basic daysailer can be built for as little as $10,000, while a more luxurious model can cost upwards of $30,000. The most common materials used for building daysailers are wood, fiberglass, and aluminum.

The cost of building a cruiser

Cruisers are larger sailboats that are designed for long-distance sailing. The best-size cruiser usually ranges from 30 - 40 feet long.

Building a cruiser can cost between $30,000 and $100,000. Some cruisers may have additional amenities such as a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters, which can increase the overall cost.

The cost of building a racing sailboat

Racing sailboats are designed for speed and agility. They are usually between 20 and 30 feet long and are built with lightweight materials.

Building a racing sailboat can cost between $20,000 and $50,000, depending on the size and materials used. Since these sailboats are designed to be as lightweight as possible, it means that high-performance materials such as carbon fiber may be used, which can increase the overall cost.

The cost of building a catamaran

Catamarans are sailboats with two hulls. They are designed for stability and speed and are usually between 30 and 50 feet long, but the perfect size for sailing is around 37037 feet . Building a catamaran can cost between $50,000 and $500,000.

The larger the catamaran, the more expensive it will be to build. The materials used in the construction of the catamaran can also impact the cost, so if a catamaran is made of fiberglass, it will be less expensive than one made of carbon fiber. A catamaran with a more complex design or more advanced features will generally cost more to build.

The cost of building a trimaran

Trimarans are sailboats with three hulls, which are usually between 30 and 50 feet long. The cost of building a trimaran ranges between $50,000 and $500,000.

Since trimarans are generally larger and more complex than monohull boats, they require more materials and labor to build. Additionally, trimarans often require specialized equipment and expertise to construct, which can drive up the cost of the project.

Trimarans are also often built using high-quality materials like carbon fiber, Kevlar, and other advanced composites, which can be quite expensive. These materials are chosen for their strength, durability, and lightweight, which are all important factors for a high-performance sailing vessel.

Below are some tips to help you build a seaworthy sailboat without breaking the bank:

Consider a self-build kit : If you're handy with tools and have some building experience, you might want to consider a self-build sailboat kit. These kits come with everything you need to build a sailboat, including plans, materials, and hardware. Self-build kits can be a cost-effective way to build a sailboat, with prices ranging from $2,500 for a 17' sailboat kit to $14,000 to $18,000 for a Puur 17 kit, whichever you'd like to choose.

Choose your materials wisely : You don't want to skimp on quality, but you also don't want to overspend on expensive materials. With this, perhaps consider using plywood instead of solid wood for the hull, as it's more affordable and easier to work with. You can also look for deals on used materials, such as sails, rigging, and hardware, to save money.

Keep it simple : The more complex the design, the more expensive it will be to build. A simple design with a basic rig can be just as seaworthy as a more complex design, and it will be easier and cheaper to build.

Do it yourself : If you have the skills and experience, try doing as much of the work yourself as possible. This can include everything from building the hull to installing the rigging and hardware. Doing the work yourself can save you a lot of money on labor costs, and it can be a rewarding experience to build your own sailboat from scratch.

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How to Build a Boat

If you want to know how to build a boat you've come to the right place, because that's what we did, learning as we went. She's called Alacazam , and you can see her in action in the picture above, charging through the Caribbean Sea off Montserrat. And we're going to take you through the entire sailboat construction process...

Jumping forward several years...

She was called 'Alacazam' , from the great Nat King Cole's song Orange Coloured Sky, and these are her vital statistics...

• Length overall: 11.5m (37.5 feet)
• Waterline length: 10.6m (34.5 feet)
• Beam: 3.9m (12.5 feet)
• Draft: 2.2m (7 feet)
• Displacement: 7,023kg (7.75 tons)
• Displacement/length ratio: 159
• Sail area/displacement ratio: 18.28

Of course you don't have to start from scratch as we did; there are a few other boat building options available that could save time and maybe cash too.

Whichever option you choose it's a very good idea to think the whole project through from beginning to end, as nothing can cause more disruption and additional cost than changing your mind halfway through a boat construction project.

It's an inescapable fact that cost and size are closely related, but not in a linear fashion as you might assume. If you double the length of the boat you're likely to increase the costs by a factor of four; and not just the build costs, but owning and operating costs too. Just wait until anti-fouling time comes around and you'll see what I mean.

Berthing costs seem to take a hike at around 12m (40ft) overall, and another at 15m (50ft), which was the final compelling factor in sizing our self-build cruising sailboat at 11.5m (38ft) on deck. This allowed for the anchor poking out at one end and the self-steering gear at the other, just in case any marina employee should get overzealous with the tape measure.

But where do you want to start? Here are your three main options:

• Buy an old, tired boat and completely refurbish her, or
• Buy a bare hull and deck moulding for home completion, or
• Start from scratch, and build the hull yourself.

We'll take a look at these three options in turn:

1. Starting With a 'Fixer-Up'

This can be a great option, particularly if you can get your hands on an old but tired pedigree boat with a proven reputation like the Ted Brewer designed Morgan 28 shown here - and you might just get it at an absolute knockdown price.

With luck, much of the interior will be salvageable, but you'll probably want to bring the instruments and electronics up to date, replace the rig and all the rigging, install a new engine and stern gear and replace the hatches and much of the deck equipment.

But you really should get a professional surveyor involved before you take up such a project. Explain to him carefully what your intentions are, and ask him to prepare his report with that in mind; it could save you a whole heap of time and money.

2. Starting from a Bare GRP Hull

This approach will get you off to a flying start, particularly if the hull comes with the deck moulding already fitted and the bulkheads bonded in. The problem will be in finding one, as few manufacturers seem to offer this once popular option these days.

3. Starting from Scratch

You need to take a very deep breath before setting off along this route - and believe me, I know, because this is how we built our custom designed sailboat Alacazam .

Unless you're building from an established set of boat plans, you'll be well advised to get a yacht designer involved at the outset.

And one of your first decisions will be the choice of hull material - fibreglass, steel, aluminium, ferro-concrete or wood - but which one, and why?

The Outline Requirements for our 'Ideal Cruising Sailboat'

My current boat at the time was a Nicholson 32 Mk10. Jalingo was a narrow hulled, heavy displacement, long keeled cruiser that I'd sailed thousands of miles - much of it singled handed (until I met Mary, who put paid to all of that self indulgence) - off the shores of the UK, France, Spain and Portugal, and to the Mediterranean and back.

Her hull shape and displacement ( Jalingo's , not Mary's) meant that she was comfortable in a seaway and great in a blow, but sluggish in light winds - and that keel meant she was a nightmare to handle in the confines of a marina.

Like all long-distance sailors we had a good idea as to what our 'ideal cruising sailboat' would be. I've always thought that a cutter rigged sloop is the ideal the ideal rig for a cruising boat, with a roller furling jib , a hanked-on staysail (easy to replace with a storm jib when necessary) and a slab-reefing mainsail with lazy jacks , as I don't trust either in-mast furling or in-boom furling .

Additionally she would:~

• have high resistance to capsize;
• be robust and easy to maintain;
• have good performance under sail;
• have a comfortable, easy motion underway;
• be easily manageable by a small crew;
• have sufficient internal volume for comfortable living aboard;
• be affordable to own and operate.

Did we know how to build a boat with these desirable characteristics? No, but we knew a man who did. Enter Andrew Simpson, yacht designer, surveyor and shipwright - and one of my best chums...

The Designer's Proposals for our Ideal Cruising Sailboat

We discussed all this at length, and made a number of sketches of both the interior layout and an efficient, workable cockpit .

Andrew did the number crunching and came up with an outline design for a 38ft (11.5m) cutter rigged wood/epoxy (cedar strip) water-ballasted cruising boat.

"She'll be light, quick, robust and comfortable" he said

"And seaworthy?" we asked

"Eminently so" he replied

"Right" we said, "Let's do it!"

And so we did...

So How Did We Build Alacazam ?

Here's the whole story, in words and pictures.

How to Build a Boat:

• Part 1:  The All-Important Preparation
• Part 2:  How to Build a Boat Hull in Western Red Cedar
• Part 3:  Sheathing the Hull in Woven Glass Rovings
• Part 4:  Cutting and Installing the Plywood Bulkheads
• Part 5:  Building the Interior Structure
• Part 6:  Constructing the Deck and Coach Roof
• Part 7:  Moulding the GRP Cabin Top
• Part 8:  Fitting the Bulb Keel
• Part 9:  Making the Rudder

Next: How to Build a Boat, Part 1

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27 Homemade Boat Plans You Can DIY Easily

Building a boat might sound like a big project – and depending on the kind of boat you want, it can be. However, with the right plan, it’s far from impossible, offering you the prospect of owning a boat without spending huge amounts of money on it.

For anyone who thinks that sounds like a fun challenge, we’ve had a look online to see what other people have been trying – and as a result, here are our favorite 27 DIY boat plans you might like to have a go at copying at home.

Table of Contents

1. How to Build a Boat – Popularmechanics.com

2. how to build a sneak boat – kara hummer plans, 3. know how: build your own boat – sail magazine, 4. build a 7.5ft boat with 2 sheets of plywood, 5. build your own 12′ x 4′ simple aluminum boat – boat design net, 6. diy foldable boat for only 30$ fits in car backseat, 7. build a wooden boat – mother earth news, 8. portable boat plans, 9. weekender sailboat build, 10. swamp boats, 11. welcome to my dreamboat project, 12. homemade pontoon boat: 8 steps (with pictures) – instructables, 13. $100 homemade kayak, 14. how to build a recumbent pontoon pedal boat – mother earth news, 15. how to make boat using pvc pipe and 42cc 2-stroke engine, 16. pontoon boat picnic table: 8 steps (with pictures) – instructables, 17. wooden boat building step 1: lofting boat plans, 18. homebuilt pontoon boat/double-hull kayak, 19. homemade cooler fishing boat with foldable pontoons, 21. diy boat plan: a rowboat can support a trolling motor, 22. building a wooden boat: 12 steps (with pictures) – instructables, 23. one sheet sampan, 24. building a cheap sail catamaran, 25. couple builds wooden yacht in backyard – 5-year amazing time lapse, 26. plywood lath coracle, 27. diy simple wooden toy boat: woodworking for kids, lots of great plans for all kinds of boats.

If you’re toying with the idea of building your own boat , this post will be a fascinating read. In it, this DIYer explains how he dusted off some decades-old plans for building a boat to try his hand at his ancestral trade. It takes you through the process in great detail, giving you plenty of info about each step, so once you’ve finished reading, you’ll have a much better idea about whether this is a project you want to tackle.

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For anyone who enjoys duck hunting and who wants to try building their own sneak boat, this is a video for you. In it, this YouTuber explains how he tackled a similar project, giving you all the tips and advice you’ll need to make a success of your project when it’s your turn to try.

This post is not exactly a plan as such, but it’s full of the kind of useful information that any first-time boatbuilder should know. The writer starts off by listing all the reasons why you really shouldn’t build your own boat – and if after reading that, you’re still determined to go ahead with it, his experience and advice will help make sure you make the best job of it.

Depending on what you hope to achieve – as well as your previous DIY and boat-building experience – your chances of success when trying to build your own boat can vary enormously. However, if what you hope to make is a modest boat of the kind you can take into a lake for a day of fishing, that’s the kind of thing most people can hope to achieve. And if that sounds like you, this video tutorial will show you how to make a serviceable 7.5ft craft from two sheets of plywood.

The aluminum boat this post teaches you to make is suitable for rowing or being propelled by a small motor . It’s ideal for sheltered inland waterways for activities like fishing, and if that sounds like the kind of thing you want to make, this post includes pdf plans that tell you exactly how to do it.

Making a DIY boat doesn’t need to cost a fortune, and if you’re on a limited budget, this is the plan for you. In it, you’ll learn how to make a small foldable boat that you’ll be able to fit in the back seat of your car – without spending more than about $30. Sound like something you’d like to try? Then give the video a watch!

In this post, you’ll find detailed instructions for making a simple yet elegant wooden boat that would be perfect for fishing trips out onto a lake or many other similar activities. We like the way this plan includes a simple step-by-step guide along with plenty of diagrams to show you exactly what you need to do, allowing you to make something just like it at home.

This is a great resource for anyone who is thinking of building themselves a simple pleasure craft since it contains not just one but several relatively easy boat-building plans. You can browse the plan and choose from a swan boat, a sheet ply skiff, a composite cruiser and several others. And then when you know which one you want to build, this site has all the details you’ll need to make a success of it.

For those looking for a more ambitious project, this video should be worth a look. In it, you get to see the development as this YouTuber’s sailboat took shape between September 2001 and summer 2002. It’s not exactly the kind of plan you’ll be able to follow exactly, but his impressive work should be a source of inspiration. Then it’s just down to you to find out how to build something similar yourself.

As you can see from the photos in this post, boats like this have been around for many years – and boats like this are found around the world anywhere that shallow waters or swamps exist. They’re simple to make too, and this plan gives you all the info you need to make one, including sourcing the wood from growing trees and putting the whole thing together. A fun project and one we’re sure plenty of people will enjoy attempting.

If you’re looking for a long watch – and a possible source of inspiration – this video is the first part of a multi-episode series about how this YouTuber went about building his dream boat . For those who are interested, it’s sure to give you some ideas about what’s possible – as well as plenty of ideas for how to tackle it.

We love the way the boat in this tutorial looks. It’s so basic and unpretentious, but it also looks like a whole lot of fun. Want to know how to make one yourself? Then check out this post for more details.

Buying a ready-made kayak can set you back a whole lot of money, but with a few basic DIY skills and a little bit of determination, you can build one yourself for much less. This video teaches you how to make one for only $100, offering a saving that sounds too good to refuse.

If you’ve ever wanted to own your own pedal boat , this is the plan for you because it teaches you how to build one yourself! It discusses important issues like flotation and gives you all the information you need to complete the project. And if you think you’d like to have a go, why not see if you can build something similar?

Here’s an original idea we loved! In this video, this YouTuber shows us how he built a functioning boat – out of PVC pipe! It’s certainly unconventional, but it looks like it works perfectly. So if anyone is looking for a fun and off-the-wall to try project, this could be just the thing!

The boat in this plan is one of our favorites because, while technically it’s a DIY pontoon boat , in practice, it’s more like a floating picnic table. With a boat like this, you can power out to the middle of the lake before cutting the engine and enjoying a nice lunch in perfect tranquility. This is something we’re thinking of trying ourselves!

This video is the first instalment in a series of tutorials detailing how this YouTuber built a boat from scratch. This part deals with the start of the project and lofting the boat plans , but if you like the way he works, you can also check out the other videos he’s uploaded and see how the final thing turns out.

For anyone who wants to make a functional boat without spending a fortune, this plan is perfect. The boat it teaches you to make is very “DIY” since it’s made of nothing more than PVC piping and some other similarly inexpensive materials. However, it looks like it floats, so if that’s all you need – and you aren’t too worried about looking flash – this is a plan that could be fun to copy.

If you like fishing and you’re looking for ideas for an individual fishing boat, you’re going to love this video. In it, we get to see this YouTuber’s eccentric creation that, to us, looks a bit like a floating armchair perched on top of three coolers. But that sounds like all you need for a great fishing trip, right? And we’re sure lots of people will enjoy trying to make something similar.

The sub-heading to this plan is “as simple as it can get”, and that’s a pretty accurate way of describing this boat, both in terms of design and construction. The details state it has a displacement of 230lbs, so it can comfortably accommodate one person, allowing you to get out on the water without spending much money at all.

This short tutorial gives you a simple suggestion for building a motorboat that is both easy and inexpensive to make. In the video, you can see that the boat struggles a little with two people in it, but it still works. This could be a great project to attempt for anyone who wants to have a go at building their first boat, and if that includes you, it’s recommended watching.

This is the third plan we’ve included from the Instructables website, but this is by far the most professional of the three. The boat this tutorial teaches you to build looks as though it could have been made by a professional. The plan is easy to follow though, so if this is the kind of boat you want , this is a post that should be well worth a look.

As this post explains, a sampan is a type of boat from Southeast Asia, and the word “sampan” comes from the Chinese meaning “three planks”. They are a popular boat in the region because they are easy to construct and extremely reliable, and if you’d like to try building one yourself, this plan will teach you how to do it.

This is a plan for anyone who’s up for a challenge because in it, you’ll learn how to make a DIY sail catamaran. The video is only about five minutes long, but as long you have some reasonable DIY skills and a bit of common sense, it shouldn’t be too hard to replicate, so why not see if you’re up to the task?

While not many people will have the time, skills or determination to finish a project like the one in this video, we still thought it merits a place on our list because of how impressive what they did is. Over five years, this couple built their own boat from scratch, and this video documents their progress. Check it out – it will blow your mind!

Among the very first boats ever invented, the coracle is a simple design that’s easy to make and fun to play about in. And if you think you might like to have a go, this is the plan that will teach you how to do it!

Perhaps building a real full-sized boat might be a bit much for you – but if you have kids, maybe making a miniature toy one with them could still be fun. It could also be a way to fire their creativity and imagination, and who knows? When they grow up, maybe they’ll build a real one for you in return!

As you can see, whatever kind of boat you hope to build, there are all kinds of plans that will show you how to do it.

We’ve enjoyed collecting these plans for you, so we hope you’ve enjoyed reading and watching them too. And above all, we hope we’ve helped you find the plan you were looking for to build a DIY boat of your own.

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What makes a boat stable in the water is it the keel

i want to make a model for a school project out of tinfoil and hot glue it together and were going to put pennies in and see if it floats is there too much wait?

i meant to say weight not wait

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DIY Cruising Catamaran: Complete Building Guide

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A brand-new cruising catamaran can set you back a hefty amount of money. However, a DIY cruising catamaran provides a more affordable way to own your own boat. While building a large boat can be an extremely challenging and time-consuming experience, nothing beats the pleasure of bringing your own boat to life. 

To build a DIY cruising catamaran, buy good design plans, determine your budget and find a working space. Next, choose your hull material, buy supplies and start building the mast beam. Build and sheathe the hull, install bulkheads, the interior, and finally, launch the catamaran boat.

In this article, you will find a complete guide to building your own catamaran. You will also find detailed information on why you may want to consider building your catamaran and approximately how much this project would cost. Finally, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of building a catamaran from scratch.

Why You Might Want To Build Your Own Catamaran

Most people might think that purchasing a used boat to repair and fix it up would be cheaper than a DIY cruising catamaran. But while building your own catamaran could be an enormous undertaking, it also comes with many advantages over buying something used. 

Other than the unique opportunity to create beautiful memories and experiences while cruising, sailing, and exploring beautiful coastlines, there are a number of benefits that come along with the DIY approach.  

Knowing Your Boat

Building your own catamaran provides you with intimate knowledge of your boat. You will know every corner, including where to find every bolt, wire, bulkhead, rib, hose, and support as you installed them yourself. This knowledge will enhance your confidence while at sea since you will have entrusted your life to a boat whose history you are aware of and deeply connected to.

Pride of Ownership

The satisfaction you get from crafting something with your own hands is immense. As a result, the knowledge that you built your boat from scratch will fill you with absolute pride and an immense sense of achievement. Furthermore, as an owner-builder, you get to keep and enjoy the boat for as many years as you wish.

Substantial Cost Savings

Building your catamaran will work out cheaper than buying a new or even gently used boat. Though you will likely require some additional labor since doing some things will require an extra pair of hands, if you are particularly good at DIY, you will save a significant amount of money on labor costs as a whole. 

Freedom To Create Your Own Designs

If you decide to buy a catamaran boat, it might not be easy to find one that meets your unique needs. However, instead of choosing from production boats that bear traditional and outdated designs, you can come up with an ultra-modern design or style for your catamaran. You also get to pick your layout, size, and equipment based on your taste and budget.

Great Learning Experience

Building your own boat will help you pick up numerous skills that will come in handy later when sailing your boat. As much as you might still require an expert to help you with specialized skills like carpentry or wiring, your new skills will serve you well. This will also be beneficial when it comes to your boat’s maintenance and fixing things for yourself. 

What To Look For in Catamaran Boat Designs

When deciding on the type of catamaran boat to build, you may want to choose a design that’s simple and easy to build. This is because doing so will allow you to spend a shorter time building the boat. 

You also need to have a set of requirements to guide you in choosing your design or what you might call an ideal cruising catamaran wish list. This is essential because, ultimately, you want to build a boat that offers outstanding qualities such as:

• Delivers good speed
• Affordable to own and operate
• Agile, strong, and easy to maintain
• Has a high resistance to capsizing
• Great for sailing and cruising
• Delivers a comfortable and easy motion underway
• Good handling ability and high performance under sail
• User-friendly embarking and disembarking
• Provides ample living and accommodation space 
• Presents a reasonable resale value

It’s worth noting that, in general, catamaran boats tend to offer a fair resale value mainly because of scarcity and the high price accorded to production models. So, if you build a well-constructed catamaran, you are bound to get a return that’s much higher than the cost of materials upon resale.

It’s also good to consider whether the design you settle on is from an established designer. This is significant because documentation of the building process is just as valuable when it comes to selling the boat.

How Much Would It Cost To Build Your Own Catamaran?

The cost of building your cruising catamaran will depend heavily on the size of the boat you plan to build and the skills you bring to the table. To give you an idea of probable costs, a professionally built 40 foot (12.1 m) long cruising catamaran could go for up to $300,000. 

Though building it yourself will undoubtedly be cheaper, most DIY boatbuilders tend to underestimate the expected costs. Your final costs should cover not only the cost of material and equipment but also the labor and time it would take to come up with the final product. 

If you were to build a 40-foot (12.1-meter) catamaran, your cost of materials would range between 20-30% of the total cost. Therefore, for $300,000 total, the boat’s materials would range between $60,000 and $90,000. The hull tends to range between 15-35% of the total build. Again, this depends on the finish and furniture.

But before you even start working on the DIY project, you will need to figure out where to do the work. If your home has ample space, then you can opt for a backyard building. But if you live in a small apartment, then you might want to consider renting a small garage at first and then move on to a boatyard later. This is one of the significant costs involved in building your multi-haul.  

What You Will Need

To get a clearer picture of how much the entire project would cost, let’s have a look at what else you will need to purchase.

• Good design plans
• Working space
• Ground tackle
• Matting and roving
• Equipment such as the engine, windows, rudders, deck fittings, mast, and rigging

In addition to the above, you also need to install plumbing and electricals. You may also want to consider going electric rather than using diesel. Not only will this drastically reduce your maintenance costs, but you get to use the regenerated power for all of your housing needs while sailing. 

Some catamaran boat designs help you save costs by advocating the use of less expensive corpus materials. Most of the material goes directly into making the boat, which means there is hardly any wastage on vacuum bagging . With this method, there are few molds and temporal building forms and fewer fillers to grind off as waste. All these factors reduce the time and cost it takes to build your catamaran boat.

That said, building a boat of any kind is a huge financial undertaking. As such, you still need to have the financial ability to keep building; otherwise, your project will stall or take much longer than anticipated. Instead of enjoying yourself and making memories cruising to faraway lands, you might end up spending all your time building a seemingly never-ending boat.

To reiterate, this project is more of a labor of love, given that it involves a tremendous amount of manual work. Calculating an hourly rate on the time spent building the boat and adding this cost to that of materials may make it seem a very pricey exercise. However, it is vital to understand that your time matters, and every hour you spend working for “free” should be included. 

With that in mind, you need to ensure that you are fully devoted to the boat construction project and are sure you want to do it before you begin. Stopping halfway because it seems like too much work would be incredibly costly.

How To Build a Catamaran

When it comes to building a cruising catamaran, you have 3 main options:

• You can buy an old boat and refurbish it.
• Purchase a bare hull plus deck molding for a home-boat building.
• Start from scratch and build everything, including the hull, on your own. 

As mentioned above, renovating an existing boat may end up being more costly than starting from scratch. To build a catamaran boat from scratch, follow the below step-by-step guide.

Prepare the Essentials

Before you jump into such a large project, there are several important aspects to consider:

• Buy your plans from an established catamaran designer. You can also get inexpensive, easy-to-build catamaran designs online.
• Get access to a large working space or build a shed . Depending on your climate, you may need to opt for climate control to avoid an excess of moisture in humid areas. 
• Decide on your choice of hull material. This could be fiberglass, aluminum, steel, wood, or ferroconcrete. 
• Start working on a bill of materials estimate. Include everything that you think you need to get a better idea of the initial costs.

Build the Mast Beam

Using wood and epoxy, cut and glue together the pieces of wood that will form the mast beam. Most of the work at this stage can occur in a garage since it involves building small parts. Still, the work could take up to 4 months, so be prepared to put in long hours.

Build the Boat Hull

Now, it’s time to build the boat’s hull. A catamaran comprises two hulls which are connected with a deck. Below is a short video showing how to build a hull mold:

This work requires a larger facility, so you might need to move out of the garage and into a boatyard. If you don’t have access to a larger workshop, consider building a shed where you can work as you do the construction. Make sure there’s enough room to fit the boat and also allow you to work comfortably. To cover the shed, you can use opaque white tarps. 

Sheathe the Hull

Get all the materials you require for this stage in the construction, such as lots of resin, fiberglass, and foam for use in the hull cores. You’ll also require matting and glass roving to sheath the hull . 

Sheathing helps to make the hull impervious to water and other marine borers. But first, you need to prepare the hull using a rotary sander. To make it as smooth as possible, use light, sweeping strokes. This is a very dusty task so be prepared to wear a facemask and safety goggles. 

Install the Bulkheads

Next is installing the plywood bulkheads . You might need to call in friends to help turn the hulls or use a crane. In this step, you will need to laminate the hull sides on the molded hull panels and bond them above the bulkheads. Ensure the bulkheads are snug and sealed in place.

Construct the Interior Structure

Over the next couple of months, the boat work will involve joining the hulls together with the beams that you had made back in the garage. Then, install the cuddy cabin, decks , and the cockpit . Soon the boat will start to take the shape of a catamaran.

Next, proceed to construct the major structural components such as stairs, hatches, mini-keels, and the interior. Then comes the work of fairing the boat, which is quite labor-intensive. 

Finally, it’s time to apply primer on the catamaran boat and start the paintwork. Before painting the boat, you will need to do additional sanding to finish off the two layers of primer as well as fill all the pinholes. Since it’s a large boat, the catamaran has lots of surface area; thus, the sanding could get extremely exhausting—mentally and physically—at this point.

The painting can take a while, too. The hulls are the easiest to paint, but the topsides, non-skid, as well as masking and prepping could seem never-ending. 

The final stretch involves working on the center bridge deck cabin and other final touches like installing the engines, electricals, and plumbing. This is also the time to fix the rudders, rigging, mast, windows, and deck fittings.

Launch Your Cruising Catamaran

After many months or years of hard work, your cruising catamaran is finally ready to test the waters. After lowering the boat into the water, check carefully in case there are leaks. If none, you can set up the sails and take your catamaran out for your first cruise. 

Below is a short video that takes you through the entire boat-building process:

If you don’t have deep pockets, don’t despair. It’s also possible to build an inexpensive catamaran boat, as shown in this post from the coastal passage .

The Pros of Building a Catamaran

Though it will be a costly endeavor, there are so many things to look forward to should you decide to build your own catamaran:

• It can be lots of fun.
• You get to have a new boat.
• It’s an excellent hobby for DIY enthusiasts.
• The effort is rewarding.
• It offers a great learning experience.
• You get the exact kind of boat you want.
• You can alter building plans and tailor the boat to suit your specific needs.
• It might be cheaper than buying a new boat.

The Cons of Building a Catamaran

Though there are a number of positive aspects to a DIY build, it is just as important to keep in mind that it won’t always be easy:

• Maintenance costs can be quite high.
• It’s both mentally and physically exhausting.
• It might require some technical know-how.
• It can take many months or even years to complete.
• It requires a lot of commitment to finish the DIY project.
• It might be challenging as well as expensive to get insurance.  
• You will spend almost all your free time building the boat. 

DIY Cruising Catamaran Tips and Tricks

If you are new to boat building, it would be a good idea to build a small boat first. This would give you a good indication as to whether you’d enjoy tackling a more extensive project like building a catamaran. Again, if you are the handy type, fixing your own electronics could also save you a significant amount of money. 

Here are more tips and tricks to get the most out of your DIY cruising catamaran:

• Lower your costs. Bring down your costs even further by sourcing for parts and supplies at marine surplus outlets, Craigslist, eBay, or wholesale suppliers. 
• Enhance your resale value. Most home-built boats are not easy to sell since they tend to be too customized. To enhance your resale value, it’s advisable to work with a standard design from a well-established naval architect.
• Follow the design instructions. Make sure to follow the designer’s instructions regarding the type of materials and tools to use during the build to avoid making costly mistakes.
• Maintain your original budget. Avoid any additional customizations once you have started building the boat. Using good plans and sticking to them ensures that your budget doesn’t spiral out of control.

Final Thoughts

Building a catamaran is about more than saving money. It’s fun, exciting, fulfilling, and can be a great learning experience. While it might take many months of back-breaking work, comparative shopping and sourcing for materials will help you save a lot of money. Still, at the end of it all, you’ll have a beautiful catamaran boat, all ready for your first cruising adventure.

However, if you have neither the time nor the energy to build your own catamaran from scratch, refurbishing an existing hull might prove faster and easier. It also works out much cheaper than buying a new boat.

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

One thought on “ DIY Cruising Catamaran: Complete Building Guide ”

Hello, I am a French Quebecer who is original, imaginative, creative and who finds that all boats and catamarans have a huge flaw and a very big lack of logic. I would have a brand new concept…. I am sending this message to any catamaran creator – designer to make those who have the opportunity and the intelligence to want to know about my innovative idea which will finally upset the market much richer. An idea that will totally change the concept of sailing, navigation and save so much worry!! All I would ask for is a small percentage of each sale of the new product. To be able to make me produce one when I have enough!! It is certain that like that, you just want to tell me: come on Mr. Lessard give us your idea but do not take your word to help me in return! But, if you are the kind of man to have only one word and maybe have a proof of your good faith if the realization of the project would make it… I will be very happy!! Giving it to everyone wouldn’t bother me either…. all I would like is to be able to find flax fiber (too expensive carbon) to be able to try to make my catamaran myself. Because not rich! Have a nice day and looking forward to having a message!!

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6 Most Affordable Liveaboard Sailboats

Last Updated by

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Liveaboard sailboats in clean and operational condition cost anywhere between $10,000 and $30,000, but some excellent vessels cost less.

Finding an affordable sailboat can greatly reduce the overall cost of living the liveaboard lifestyle. Some sailboats that have full-time living accommodations can be found for less than $20,000, making them highly affordable compared to many alternatives.

Table of contents

What Constitutes a Liveaboard Sailboat?

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Choosing the right liveaboard sailboat starts with deciding what you need to be comfortable. Everything is a tradeoff onboard a sailboat, but carefully-designed cabins and facilities can help improve your quality of life. Here are a few things to look for when choosing the best affordable liveaboard sailboat.

Overall Size

Size is one of the most important factors when considering a sailboat to live on . Small boats that are less than 20 feet in length are almost always too small for comfortable and clean living. The ideal liveaboard sailboat is usually between 25 and 35 feet in length.

That said, sailboat length isn't the only factor that determines liveability. Some sailboats share the same length but have vastly different accommodations. For example, the Cal 20 has barely any usable cabin space, while the Flicka 20 is suitable for long voyages.

Headroom is key for comfortable living on a sailboat and should be considered separately from the overall length. Most sailboats over 27 feet in length have at least six feet of headroom, which is considered "standing headroom" by most people in the industry.

Some vessels may have standing headroom in parts of the cabin, but not all of it. In these situations, you may find a cabin roof bulge over the galley (where standing is necessary), but these vessels often drop the ceiling a few inches over the sitting areas of the cabin and the V-berths.

What kind of galley does your ideal sailboat have? Cooking is an essential part of daily life, and some sailboats have more than enough cooking and cleaning equipment on board.

Before choosing a sailboat, decide how much galley equipment (and what kind) that you'll need. A stove and a sink are essential, but an icebox, oven, and a refrigerator are certainly nice to have.

The head is the sailboat's bathroom. Many boats come equipped with a porta-potty or similar temporary facilities, but the best affordable liveaboard sailboats have a permanent toilet and showering facilities.

Often, liveaboard sailboats have a shower/sink combo, where the faucet transforms into a shower. Holding tanks for the fresh, gray, and black water are larger on bigger boats, so consider your access to pumping facilities before deciding on a sailboat.

How easy is it to hook your boat up to power and water? Modern connections are essential for convenience on a liveaboard sailboat . If you're looking in the low price range, it's important to inspect the condition of the vessel's systems—especially its electrical wiring.

Check the wiring and make sure all (or most) of the outlets, lights, and pumps are operational. Several broken electrical parts and dead switches could be a sign that the boat's wiring is damaged, which is hazardous and highly inconvenient.

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Catalina 25

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Catalina 25 sailboats were produced in 1978 and 1994, and 5,866 examples of the class were produced. In sailboat terms, that's a pretty big number—which means they're plentiful on the used market.

The Catalina 25 is about as small as it's practical to go when choosing a liveaboard sailboat . The cabin is spacious for its size, with the greatest downside being the keel trunk in the center of the cabin. However, Catalina made good use of the trunk by installing a hinged dining table on the side.

The cabin features a galley with a stove, sink, and an icebox for refrigeration. Floor plans vary, but the majority of used Catalina 25s features a head with a shower, a front V-berth, and a dinette with sofas along each side.

The Catalina 25 is an affordable used sailboat and tons of fun to sail. It's suitable for single-handed sailing, making it a great introductory liveaboard sailboat for single people or couples.

Used Catalina 25 sailboats can be found for between $4,000 and $8,000, making it one of the most affordable liveaboards out there today. With Catalina's build quality and good maintenance, a fiberglass Catalina 25 can last for decades.

Catalina 30

No liveaboard sailboat list is complete without the Catalina 30. This sailboat is one of the most popular 30-foot sailboats ever built, and it features an exceptional interior layout that's perfect for living aboard.

When it comes to size, 30 feet is just about perfect for a single person or a couple living aboard a boat. The original Catalina 30 design was produced between 1972 and 2008, and the company sold around 6,430 vessels during that time.

Down below, the Catalina 30 features a spacious cabin with standing headroom throughout. A full galley is complemented by plenty of overhead and cabinet storage, so owners can safely pack more than just the essentials.

The head is larger than most boats in this size range, and a functional shower is installed on the vast majority of examples from the 1970s onward. The vessel has large storage tanks, which means owners don't need to pump out the black and gray water often.

The Catalina 30 features a full dinette, chart table, and plenty of additional sleeping and berthing locations. A V-berth up front features storage below and along the sides of the hull, leaving lots of room for books, paperwork, personal items, and anything else necessary for living aboard.

The Catalina 30 is easy to find on the used market, and a liveable example can be had for as little as $5,000, but the average price is around $8,000 to $15,000. Parts are easy to find, and there's a wealth of knowledge on the sailing forums about how to maintain, repair, and sail this popular fiberglass vessel.

The Cal 28 is an old but comfortable liveaboard sailboat that's both affordable and readily available. The Cal 28 was designed in 1963 and produced until 1969. Variants of the design were produced well into the 1980s, making it relatively easy to find on the used market.

The Cal 28 is a fast and stout sailboat on the water and spacious down below. It features a thoughtfully-designed galley ahead and several well-proportioned sleeping areas.

Some people regard older fiberglass sailboats like the Cal 28 as better and stronger than their newer counterparts. This is because, back in the 1950s and 1960s, boatbuilders didn't really know how much fiberglass was necessary to build a strong boat. So instead of using "just enough," they'd often make structural components of the vessel way thicker and stronger than they had to be.

The Cal 28 measures 28 feet overall and 22.5 feet at the waterline, making it inexpensive to dock and relatively easy to haul out for maintenance. The vessel features an aluminum mast and boom, which is easy and inexpensive to maintain over the long term.

Cal 28 sailboats have 2,200 lbs of ballast and a long fin keel, making them suitable for living (no centerboard trunk) and offshore sailing (well-balanced hull design). It's also a fast boat, making it an excellent choice for destination cruising.

The Cal 28 itself is highly affordable. The going rate for a Cal 28 in clean, usable condition is between $5,000 and $15,000, especially in areas where sailing was common in the 1960s and 1970s, such as San Diego.

Here's another fun and safe cruising sloop with plenty of room for living aboard. The Aloha 28 is an affordable and comfortable 28-foot fiberglass sailboat with excellent offshore handling capabilities and a sleek design.

The interior layout of the Aloha 28 is similar to the Catalina 30. Aft, there's a well-designed L-shaped galley with a stove, a sink, and an icebox. Some models came with a gimbal-mounted oven and stove combo, which is great for cooking complex meals aboard.

The center of the cabin features two large sofa-style seats that convert into berths and a swing-out table for eating, chart reading, and other activities. There's plenty of storage space along with the seats, around the galley, and below the cushions.

Towards the bow, there's a full head with a toilet, sink, and shower. The shower pan is on the floor, which makes the head a compact but suitable place to clean yourself up.

A 'master cabin' style V-berth upfront offers great privacy, though most models don't have a physical door separating the forward berth compartment from the rest of the cabin. Instead, a curtain is often present.

The Aloha 28 is under 30 feet in length, making it relatively inexpensive to dock at most liveaboard-friendly marinas. You can find this affordable liveaboard sailboat for a fraction of the cost of a new boat, as most models sell for around $10,000 to $15,000 in clean and usable condition.

Catalina 34

It should come as no surprise that the next affordable liveaboard sailboat on our list is the Catalina 34. Almost 1,500 of these fiberglass vessels were produced after its introduction in 1985, making it a popular choice for liveaboards.

The Catalina 34 is a spacious and heavy sailboat. It weighs nearly six tons, and it's 34.5 feet long overall. With a beam of 11.75 feet, the Catalina 34 is also large enough for a couple to live comfortably with a pet or two as well.

The Catalina 34 has a 7.32-knot hull speed, making it remarkably fast for a boat of its size. That means, should you decide to move your floating home, you can get to and from your destination quickly and efficiently in less-than-excellent weather conditions.

Several variants of the Catalina 34 were produced over the years, but the most common design featured a head aft, a large starboard L-shaped galley, and an enclosed master cabin upfront.

The interior accommodations of the Catalina 34 make it an ideal liveaboard sailboat , as the cabin is extremely spacious and easy to move around. The dining table features U-shaped seating, which easily converts into a large berth.

The head is large and includes a separate nook for showering. This is especially useful if you're uncomfortable showering so close to your sink and toilet. The V-berth upfront is in an enclosed cabin with a locking door and storage all around, along with a space between the door and the berth for standing and moving around.

Used Catalina 34 sailboats are pricier than smaller Catalina 30s, but they're still highly affordable given what they offer. Catalina 34 sailboats in serviceable condition run anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 or higher, but a nice model can be found for less than $20,000 in most areas.

Tartan 34 C

The Tartan 34 C is less common than most of the boats on this list. Nonetheless, it's worth a look if you're lucky enough to find one. This 11,200-lb sailboat measures 34.42 feet in length and 10 feet in width. It's a hardy-sailing sloop, but where it really shines is down below in the cabin.

The interior layout of the Tartan 34 C varies slightly, but it has spacious accommodations for two or more people. The L-shaped galley sits in the aft part of the cabin and features a large icebox, stove, and sink. The vessel has a large table in the center, which is surrounded on both sides by roomy sofas.

There's an enormous amount of storage space aboard the Tartan 34 C, especially around the settees and berths. Storage is key for a liveaboard sailboat , as you'll need well-designed spaces to store your belongings and keep them organized. On the Tartan 24, you won't have to store all of your stuff in secluded hard-to-reach cubbies.

The Tartan 34 features a fully-enclosed head between the dining area and the V-berth. The head features everything you'd need, including a shower, sink, and toilet, along with adequate space to move around.

The forward V-berth is also fully enclosed and separated from the head and the aft part of the cabin by a wooden door. The "master cabin" layout of the Tartan 24 is a favorite amongst liveaboards, as it offers superior privacy when hosting guests.

The design of the Tartan 34 itself is unique, as most vessels in the 30-plus-foot category don't feature a swing keel. The swing keel reduces the draft of the Tartan 34 in the harbor but increases its stability and windward sailing abilities when underway.

With a reduced draft, the Tartan 34 is ideal for shallower marinas that normally couldn't cater to a vessel of this size. On the used market, the Tartan 34 can be found for between $18,000 and $50,000, depending on a few factors. For the price, you get an affordable floating home and a highly capable cruising sailboat .

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From Dreams to Custom Reality: A Journey in Boatbuilding

• By Jay Townsend
• June 18, 2024

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Fishing has always been a major part of my life. Growing up, I had spent my summers on the Delaware coast with my grandparents on Fenwick Island; as I grew older, boats entered the picture. As long as we were near the water, we owned a boat. Over the years, the fleet included Starcraft and Mako center-consoles; then we eventually graduated to a few Grady-Whites and, in 2018, a new Boston Whaler 315 Conquest. These were ideal vessels for the Delaware Bay and fishing the wrecks up to around 20 miles offshore.

But soon after I retired and found myself with more time on my hands, I realized South Florida was an ideal location for year-round fishing, with a terrific variety including billfish less than 10 miles offshore. After a few visits to Marathon, Key West, Naples and other areas around the Sunshine State, we purchased a residence in Key Largo’s Ocean Reef Club and moved the Boston Whaler there to target sailfish. I had not done a ton of sailfishing in my life, so needless to say, I was in for a big surprise.

After one season, it became apparent that the Whaler did not have the ideal layout for our fishing style. As I started looking around at the kinds of boats in the area, there were two general types: big inboard-powered sport-fishers and long, lean center-consoles with multiple outboards . It was then that I started a process that eventually led to building and owning a beautiful custom boat, but the path was not always easily defined, with plenty of twists and turns along the way.

Examine the Uses

When I set out to purchase a new boat, we had to clearly define our wants and our needs, the must-haves and the nice-to-haves. The most practical person in the decision-making process was my wife, Faye, who would often ask what was wrong with the brand-new boat we had bought just two years before. That certainly helped me get more granular in defining our wants and needs. I started taking serious notes, and I feel this is an area where others in a similar situation might find some benefit.

The first is how we would use the boat, sometimes broken down by percentages of fishing, cruising and overnighting, as this would help define accommodations and other aspects. For me, the primary use would be South Florida sailfishing, with an occasional trip to the Bahamas. Next, would we have a crew or operate on our own? While I planned to be an owner/operator, we set this one aside, knowing it might have an impact on the dimensions down the road. Next up, restrictions. Even though we had a slip at Ocean Reef, the bylaws set limits on the length and beam, so those were our initial parameters to work with. There were also limits with the boat’s draft relative to not only the marina channel but also any areas we wanted to travel to in the future. This led to discussions about power options—whether to go with diesel inboards or gas outboards.

In the category of “other considerations,” the first was the sun. Medically, it’s not been my friend over the years, so I felt a center-console would not provide enough sun protection. Additionally, on those occasions when family members—more glampers than campers—do want to fish, having an air-­conditioned enclosed area that would be out of the weather and a full head that was actually usable were important considerations.

Do the Research

Despite more than 40 years of boat ownership, I soon realized that I didn’t know what I didn’t know regarding builders, layouts and more, so I set about to learn. Now that we had a firmer grasp on how we would use the boat and the amenities we needed, I wanted to gather data, starting with our home port at Ocean Reef. I’d walk the dock on bad-weather days that kept most of the fleet tied up at home; often the captains and crews would be around working on boat projects, so it was a good opportunity to speak with them. This is where being humble and relevant comes in: I already knew that based on my assessments and budget, I didn’t need to spend 30 minutes bending the ear of a captain or mate on a 90-foot Viking, but I also knew these guys understand the ­industry as well as anyone and have useful insights to share. Most of the Ocean Reef boats were certainly more than we would ever need, so I expanded my search to all kinds of boats in the area. I seemed to learn something new with every discussion I had along the way.

I also studied every brokerage website I could find for manufacturers of boats that might fit our needs, as well as spent time reading industry publications, including Marlin . Faye and I attended the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, where we primarily concentrated on production boats. After two days, we still had not found that ideal layout or had that “wow” moment, but we were able to meet several custom-boat builders at the show. Maybe that would be a better option, I thought.

After the show, I went deep on custom builders, and after a few days, I found what I thought would be a perfect fit—a ­beautiful 46-footer from a well-known boatbuilder in North Carolina. The boat’s walk-around layout was perfect; it had an air-conditioned helm deck and accommodations below for the occasional overnight trips. Unfortunately, my balloon burst just as quickly the following day. I called the builder and inquired about building a 40-footer of the same design that would fit in our bylaw restrictions, but they were backlogged with much larger builds and couldn’t help me. My son Ben dug a bit deeper and located Winter Custom Yachts—they had recently built two beautiful 38-foot walkarounds that were just our size, so I reached out to Tim Winters , and after a few lengthy phone conversations, we made the trip to visit his facility in southeastern North Carolina.

At this point we knew a production boat was not going to meet our needs, and going custom was the answer to get exactly what we wanted. But I also learned that it would take much more than simply visiting a dealer to pick a model, choosing from a short list of options and returning with a check when the finished boat was ready. Winters starts with a blank sheet of paper, just as you would with a custom home.

The Process Begins

Fortunately, Winters had previously built two models that were very similar to what we wanted. However, they had been completed several years earlier; technology had advanced since then, plus Winters had continued to learn with each subsequent build as well. We spent two days at his facility, where he had four boats under construction in each major phase, from jig planking to a recently flipped hull to build-out phase to a nearly completed boat. It was the first time I had witnessed the complexity of building a cold-molded hull. It also gave us a chance to develop the kind of communication and understanding of the build process—along with the challenges that were ahead and ways to address them—that would prove beneficial along the way. After all, we couldn’t just pop over for the weekend to see how things were coming, so developing that trust in the builder is a crucial step in the process. Having a very detailed project plan was also immensely helpful, as this included start and completion dates for key phases of the build.

Although we completed a full design before we started the jig, Winters continually came up with innovative ideas throughout the ­process. From adding fuel capacity and switching from Cummins to Cat C7.1 engines to give us more space in the engine room to using new composite materials in certain locations to cut down on weight, we were able to adapt throughout the build. The process was very fluid as the design work continued.

To ensure we weren’t missing anything, I had also contacted the owners of the two prior 38-footers Winters had built and asked them, “What would you do differently?” That led to another list of potential design changes—nothing major, but great lessons learned, and fortunately this input was well in advance on the build schedule so those tweaks could be incorporated.

Remain Engaged

Once you begin work on the interior, helm, tower and overall layouts, the trips to visit the builder will increase. On one of these, we brought our Plano tackle storage boxes—in the different sizes and numbers we needed—and developed the ultimate tackle storage center. We spent another two hours with Winters to ensure that I had visibility over the bow while standing or seated at the helm, and when I didn’t, we adjusted the design.

As we neared the end of the build process, we engaged a marine surveyor. When I first mentioned this to Winters, I wasn’t quite sure how he’d react, but fortunately he embraced the idea. The survey was important for me for two reasons: We had a 700-plus-mile trip home to Ocean Reef and I wanted to ensure everything was working before we started our journey, and it also gave me another set of eyes on the build. We provided the completed survey report to Winters, reviewed each item identified, and followed up as the project neared the finish line. It was at this point I asked Winters for a favor: As this was my first custom boat, would he join me and an Ocean Reef captain named Brandon Ram for the trip home? Without hesitation, he said yes.

Ram and I arrived at Winter Custom Yachts five days before our scheduled departure. This gave us both time to recheck those items identified in the survey report as well as touch knobs, operate pumps and ask questions. After four long days, we were ready. By having the builder on the boat for the three-day journey, I could ask questions in real time, and Winters was not bashful about providing tips, suggestions and encouragement when needed. I learned more in those three days than in 40 years of operating a boat previously.

There were a few key lessons I learned along the way. First, be sure you define what you want before you shop for builders. Each one has a different specialty. If they’ve built something in the past that you like, see if the owner will talk to you about it. They can be a great resource. And this is a multiyear relationship between owner and builder—be sure your personalities mesh. Accept the fact that there will be changes to the original design, and that the build process will probably take longer and might cost more than you planned. There will be setbacks, so have plenty of aspirin and antacids on hand for when they arise. Be engaged, visit as often as you can, and double your engagement efforts as the build gets past the 60 percent completion mark. Monitor changes in technology and electronics, and incorporate anything that’s feasible and within the budget. Engage directly with key manufacturers, such as those of engines, towers and controls (big boat shows like the ones held in Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Palm Beach are great places to do this).

Read Next: Our Interview with Tim Winters of Winter Custom Yachts .

In the end, people ask, “Was it all worth it?” Absolutely. We ended up with a beautiful 38-foot custom walkaround that perfectly fits our needs and our wants. The process kept me occupied during my retirement for more than three years, which also made my wife very happy. And about the name? My wife and two kids each put a name in a hat. The first I pulled was Ben’s Boat, which wasn’t going to happen. The second was Jaydid —a bit of a play on words but an indication of my personality as well. Build a brand-new custom boat from scratch? Yep, Jay did.

• More: Boat Building , Custom Boats , Issue 282 , Winter Custom Yachts

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Unalaska constructs niĝilax̂, becomes sixth community to build historic boat

Unlike the smaller iqyax̂ and ulux̂tax̂, which carry one and two people, the niĝilax̂ is huge — able to carry roughly 20 people. (Andy Lusk / KUCB)

Unalaska is now the sixth community to construct a niĝilax̂ — the large, Unangax̂ skin boat lost to history for two centuries. The completed wooden frame sits outside of the Unalaska City School District woodshop, where it waits for finishing touches.

Unlike the smaller iqyax̂ and ulux̂tax̂, which carry one and two people, the niĝilax̂ is huge — able to carry roughly 20 people. This earned it the nickname “village mover.”

The boats are more than historical relics to Marc Daniels and those he works with on these projects: they’re meant to be used. (Andy Lusk / KUCB)

Marc Daniels is a carpenter who worked with a team of historic boat builders and the Qawalangin Tribe to construct the Unalaska niĝilax̂ in late April. Since 2022, they’ve launched multiple niĝilan across the Aleutian Chain, and in one California community with a strong Unangax̂ history.

“It’s actually the sixth one that has been built by me and the other tribes in the region in the last two years, which is amazing because we’ve dreamed about it and talked about it for about 30 years,” Daniels said.

While not Unangax̂ himself, Daniels began learning how to build the traditional watercraft when he moved from California to the Pribilof Islands in the early 1990s. He’s spent the last several decades helping construct these boats with tribes across the Aleutians.

“These vessels haven’t been around for 200-plus years,” he said. “They were intentionally destroyed as a means of controlling the Unangax̂ people. So that’s what drives these projects: righting that wrong and moving forward from there.”

The boats are more than historical relics to Daniels and those he works with on these projects: they’re meant to be used.

Ferguson wants to see the Unalaska niĝilax̂ become a shared community resource. (Andy Lusky, KUCB )

Mike Ferguson traveled from his home in Port Townsend, Washington, to volunteer for the project. He plans to teach other Unangax̂ people how to build skin boats.

Ferguson had only visited the Aleutians once before coming to Unalaska. His other visit was to Sand Point, where he worked with Daniels on a different niĝilax̂ construction project. He said projects like these help connect him with his Unangax̂ ancestry.

“These vessels are a path of discovery to the communities and culture that I never knew, but are a part of me,” Ferguson said.

Ferguson wants to see the Unalaska niĝilax̂ become a shared community resource.

“There are very few people who know what it’s like to paddle in a niĝilax̂,” he said. “I think once people get out in the water, it’ll open up the connections to the land and the sea in the community.”

The niĝilax̂ will be taken to the Qawalangin Tribe’s annual culture camp, Camp Qungaayux̂, and completed over the summer. Camp Q participants will finish the boat by adding an outer layer of animal skin and carving the boat’s paddles.

After that, the niĝilax̂ will be ready for the water.

Roblox: Build A Boat For Treasure Codes

Quick links, all codes for build a boat for treasure, how to redeem codes in build a boat for treasure, how to play build a boat for treasure, best roblox adventure games like build a boat for treasure, about the build a boat for treasure developers.

Build A Boat For Treasure has gained popularity on Roblox because of its fantastic concept, where players first have to build a boat and then test it on an obstacle course. It can often be quite challenging for Roblox players to make a good boat in the early stages of the game, which is where the Build A Boat For Treasure codes listed below can come in handy.

Roblox: Arm Wrestle Simulator Codes (March 2024)

Updated March 2, 2024, by Artur Novichenko: Although there aren't any new codes for Build a Boat for Treasure at this moment, there are still plenty of active codes, all of which have been verified as working for January. If any new codes are added over the coming month, they'll be added to this guide.

Roblox players looking to get some extra gold, blocks, and other building materials for creating a beautiful boat can use the following active codes.

These codes will expire at random intervals, so be sure to redeem them as soon as they become available. Codes can only be redeemed once per account. Be sure to check back frequently, as codes can be released anytime during the month.

Codes Checked on March 2, 2024.

All Active Build A Boat For Treasure Codes (March 2024)

• hi - Redeem for 5 Gold
• Squid Army - Redeem for 22x Ice and 22x Gold
• =D - Redeem for 5 Gold
• =P - Redeem for 5 Gold
• chillthrill709 was here - Redeem for a Firework

All Expired Build A Boat For Treasure Codes (March 2024)

• Happy Valentine's day - Redeem for free blocks
• Be a big f00t print - Redeem for free blocks
• fuzzy friend? - Redeem for free blocks
• Lurking Legend - Redeem for free blocks
• GGGOOOAAALLL - Redeem for a Football
• Free gifts - Redeem for a bunch of free gifts!
• 1B - Redeem for free blocks!
• voted code - Redeem for free blocks!
• Lurking Code - Redeem for 10x Balloons, 5x Super Fireworks, 1x Portal Block!
• 1M Likes - Redeem for free blocks!
• Big F00t Print - Redeem for 10x Balloons, 5x Cake, 25x Neon Blocks!
• The Sasquatch? - Redeem for 10x Balloons, 5x Circle Fireworks, 1x Portal Block!
• Fireworks - Redeem for free blocks!
• 2M members - Redeem for free Blocks!
• Hatched code - Redeem for Cookie Wheels!
• Happy Easter - Redeem for Balloons, Candy, & Cake!
• TTTRRREEEAAASSSUUURRREEE - Redeem for a Green Treasure Chest!
• BBBOOOAAATTTSSS!!! - Redeem for 1x Boat Motor, 1x Car Seat, 4x Wood Block, 1x Cake!
• The Yeti - Redeem for 25x Green Presents, 25x Neon Blocks!
• Cold Feet - Redeem for 25x Green Presents, 25x Neon Blocks!
• 500M Visits - Redeem for 4x Portal, 5x Cake, 25x Balloons, 20x Star Blocks!
• Veterans Day - Redeem for 10x Banners, 10x Star Blocks, 10x Balloons, 5x Circle Fireworks, 5x Cluster Fireworks, 5x Super Fireworks!

Roblox: Anime Champions Simulator Codes (February 2024)

To redeem codes in Build A Boat For Treasure, players will simply need to follow the steps outlined below. If a code does not work, they should be sure to check that it was entered correctly. Assuming it was, it may mean that the code has recently expired or has already been redeemed.

• Launch Build A Boat For Treasure
• Press the treasure icon located to the right of the screen
• Once the pop-up menu opens up, select the gear icon at the top right
• Paste the code into the field
• Press Redeem to collect the rewards

Build A Boat For Treasure is a game in which players need to make their own boat and sail as far as possible. First, players need to go to a special area where they can build and then select the tool in the second inventory slot. A menu of resources will appear there, and at first, there will be a few of them.

After the players have built their boat and placed a chair, they should sit in it and press launch. After that, players have to swim as far as possible through the obstacles. They need to be very careful because the boat can be destroyed. After reaching a certain distance, players will receive rewards and can then repeat the process.

There are many games similar to Build A Boat For Treasure. Below, players will find a list of the top five games like Build A Boat For Treasure :

• Anime Adventures
• Your Bizarre Adventure
• Dragon Adventures
• Boat Ride into a Better Life
• Build a Boat or Die

The team of developers, named Chillz Studios, who created Build A Boat For Treasure in 2016, has a lot of experience in creating games. Here is a list of other Roblox games from Chillz Studios that were popular before:

• REVENGE OF THE SLIMES!!!
• Mr. Cube The Boss Battle!
• Marble Maker
• Build and Burn

Roblox - Game

Developer(s) Roblox Corporation

Publisher(s) Roblox Corporation

Platform(s) PS4, PC, iOS, Android, Xbox One

Released September 1, 2006

Boat/Vessel Registration

If you own a sailboat over eight feet long or a boat/vessel with a motor (no matter the size), you must register it with DMV in order to legally operate it on California waterways.

To register your boat/vessel, you will need:

• A completed Application for Vessel Certificate of Number (BOAT 101) form. 
• If the original certificate is lost or damaged, complete an Application for Replacement or Transfer Title (REG 227) form to request a copy.
• Applicable fees .
• If you own a trailer for your boat/vessel, you need to register it separately .

You may also need:

• To complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a California Boater Card if you plan to operate a motorized vessel on a state waterway.
• Bill(s) of sale (if you bought your boat/vessel from a private party instead of a dealer). 
• A Statement of Facts (REG 256) form, in case you do not have a copy of the bill of sale.

You can register your boat/vessel at any DMV field office , or mail your registration application and related documents to:

Department of Motor Vehicles PO Box 942869 Sacramento, CA 94269-0001

You may also need to pay the Quagga and Zebra Mussel Infestation Fee and obtain a Mussel Fee sticker. Please see the Mussel Fee sticker request page for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Any boat or vessel that you can use to transport yourself on water, such as a:

• Sail-powered boat/vessel that is over eight feet long.
• Vessel/boat with a motor (no matter how big it is).

If you bought your boat/vessel from an out-of-state seller, or if you recently moved to California, you need to register your boat/vessel with DMV within 120 days of bringing it into the state.

There are some boats/vessels that  do not  have to be registered:

• Canoes, rowboats, or any boats/vessels that use paddles or oars
• Sailboats shorter than eight feet long
• Sailboards or parasails
• A ship’s lifeboat
• Seaplanes on the water
• Boats that run on a track, such as amusement park rides
• Floating structures that are tied to land and use power, water, and a sewage system on the shore.

Dinghies must be registered with DMV.

Houseboats that have a motor must be registered with DMV.

Commercial boats/vessels that weigh more than five net tons and are longer than 30 feet must be registered (documented) by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Yes. Any boat/vessel that travels or is moored in California waterways, including private lakes, must be registered with DMV.

• A  documented boat/vessel  is registered with the U.S. Coast Guard and has a marine certificate. These boats/vessels do not have to be registered with DMV.
• An  undocumented boat/vessel  is registered with DMV and does  not  have a marine certificate from the U.S. Coast Guard.

If you buy a new boat/vessel, it is automatically considered undocumented, so you have to register the boat/vessel with DMV before you can put it in California waters.

Your boat/vessel will get a vessel registration number (beginning with CF before the numbers) when you register your boat/vessel with DMV.

You have to display your vessel registration number on your boat/vessel. Make sure it meets the following requirements.

Your Vessel Registration Number must:

• Be painted on or permanently attached to each side of your boat/vessel’s bow.
• Be written in plain, vertical block letters and numbers that are more than three inches high.
• Be properly arranged so you can read it from left to right.
• Contrast with the color of the background so that it is easy to see and read.
• Example A:  CF 1234 AB
• Example B:  CF-1234-AB

In addition to your vessel registration number, you will also receive a registration sticker. You should attach it to the both sides of your boat/vessel, three inches apart from your vessel registration number.

Your registration sticker must be clearly visible at all times. Please do not place any numbers, letters, or devices near the registration sticker (other than your vessel registration number and Mussel Fee sticker (if required)).

If you boat in California fresh waters such as the Delta, rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and streams, you must purchase and display a Mussel Fee sticker next to your registration sticker. The Mussel Fee sticker matches the registration sticker by color and date.

You may purchase the Mussel Fee sticker online . The vessel registration/renewal and sticker transactions are separate. Once you receive your Mussel Fee stickers, place them on either side of the registration sticker as shown below.

Since 1972, all boats/vessels manufactured in the U.S. come with a Hull Identification Number (HIN).

The HIN must be:

• Painted on or permanently attached to your boat/vessel so that it cannot be changed or removed.
• Assigned and attached by manufacturers to commercially built boats/vessels.
• Assigned by DMV for homemade boats/vessels.

If your California Certificate of Ownership is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can submit a completed Application for Duplicate or Transfer of Title (REG 227) form.

If you lost your sticker, you can submit a completed Application for Replacement Plates, Stickers, Documents (REG 156) form to replace the lost certificates and/or stickers.

You can then mail the forms to DMV or visit a DMV field office in person.

You must renew your boat/vessel registration by December 31 of every odd-numbered year (for example, 2013, 2017, etc.), even if you do not use your boat/vessel.

To remind you that you need to renew your registration, DMV will mail you a renewal notice 60 days before your registration expires.

Visit our online registration page to see if your vessel is eligible to be renewed online.

You can also renew your registration by phone (automated system), mail, or by visiting a DMV field office in person.

Phone:  1-800-777-0133 Mail: Vehicle Registration Operations Department of Motor Vehicles PO Box 942869 MS C271 Sacramento, CA 94269-0001

If you renew your registration by mail, please return the bottom portion of your renewal notice in the envelope provided with a check, cashier’s check, or money order to cover your fees .

If you do not receive or lose the renewal notice, you may contact DMV and pay your fees.

When you buy a boat/vessel from another person, you should also get the California Certificate of Ownership from the person who sold it to you. That person should sign/endorse the certificate on line 1. If there is a lienholder, you need their signature on line 2.

Once you have the California Certificate of Ownership, write your name and address on the back. Then you can submit the certificate to DMV along with the transfer fee, use tax, and any renewal fees that might be due.

If the boat/vessel has a trailer, you need to get the trailer title. If you cannot get a copy of the title, you can complete a Permanent Trailer Identification (PTI) Certification and Application (REG 4017) form to transfer it into your name.

If you decide to sell your boat/vessel, you need to:

• Give the Certificate of Ownership to the person who buys it. Make sure you sign the certificate on the front.
• Contact the DMV within five days of the sale and fill out a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (REG 138)  form.

You must provide the boat/vessel information (vessel registration number, HIN), the name and address of the buyer, and the sale date on the form.

• Submit the form online or by mail.

If the boat/vessel has a trailer, give the titling and/or registration documents to the buyer and submit a separate  Notice of Release of Liability (REG 138)  form.

Additional Information

Boats and vessels registered in California are included in property taxes by the county tax collector, depending on where the boat/vessel is stored or moored. DMV might deny registration renewal or transfer if the county tax collector tells DMV that you have not paid your personal property taxes.

Vessel registration becomes invalid when a boat/vessel is:

• Required to be documented by the U.S. Coast Guard.
• Transferred to a new owner.
• Destroyed or abandoned.
• No longer used primarily in California.

You must tell the DMV when a boat/vessel is:

• Moved to a different storage location.
• Documented through the U.S. Coast Guard.
• Destroyed, lost, or abandoned. Return the California Certificate of Ownership to DMV within 15 days.

Learn more about vessel registration transaction requirements by visiting the Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual .

Need something else?

Registration fees.

How much will it cost to register your boat?

Boat/Vessel Guide

Our special interest guide for boat owners is full of great information on everything from registration to quagga requirements.

Everything you need to know about owning and transferring titles, including vessel titles.

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Leave your cans out, park your truck: DeSantis signs bill to rein in overbearing HOA fines

Hoa directors, managers have new education requirements.

Florida residents with oppressive and obsessive HOAs , your day of freedom may be at hand.

Homeowner associations (HOAs) were created to maintain standards, uniformity and a sense of community while collecting dues to pay for common areas, services and general neighborhood improvements. But they also tend to attract people with strong opinions about what their neighbors can do.

It seems that everyone who has lived in an HOA has  a horror story  about petty or arbitrary  fines that keep increasing, harassment, inflexible and overly  restrictive rules  regarding the appearance of homes and lawns, the lack of budget transparency, or just the ongoing grind of living under the watchful eyes of HOA  busybodies  with tape measures and a lot of free time who care deeply about where you park.

A new bill, signed Friday by Gov, Ron DeSantis, may change all that when it takes effect July 1. Or at least make life a little more manageable.

HB 1203 , Homeowners' Association, was just one of several HOA bills introduced in this year's legislative session but it may be the most sweeping one, amounting to essentially a Homeowner's Bill of Rights. Under state law, HOAs will be restricted from some of the most complained-about rules and fines and required to be more transparent. This law comes just after another one forcing HOAs to allow homeowners to harden their homes against hurricanes.

Here's what changed.

What Florida HOAs can't do to homeowners anymore

As of July 1, 2024, HOAs will be prohibited from:

• Enforcing rules on some residents but not others
• Banning homeowners or their invited guests from parking personal, business or first responder vehicles (including pickup trucks) that are not commercial vehicles in their driveways or any other area where they have a right to park per state, county and municipal regulations
• Banning contractors or workers from the homeowner's property
• Fining residents for leaving garbage cans at the curb or the end of their driveway within 24 hours of a scheduled trash collection
• Fining residents for leaving up holiday lights or decorations past the HOA's rules without prior notice, after which the homeowner will have one week to take them down
• Limiting or creating rules for the inside of a structure that isn't visible from the street, a neighbor's property, an adjacent common area or a community golf course
• Banning vegetable gardens or clotheslines, if they can't be seen from the street, a neighbor's property, an adjacent common area or a community golf course
• Require review and approval of plans for central air conditioning, refrigeration, heating or ventilation system that isn't visible from the street, a neighbor's property, an adjacent common area or a community golf course and is similar to previously approved systems

If a construction or improvement request is denied, the HOA also must provide written notice "stating with specificity" exactly why and under which rule or covenant.

Law requires HOA transparency

Every HOA must keep its official records (bylaws and amendments, articles of incorporation, declaration of covenants, current rules, meeting minutes, insurance policies, contracts, financials, budgets, tax returns, voting records, etc.) for at least seven years. Destruction of accounting records within that time is a first-degree misdemeanor.

HOAs with more than 100 parcels must post all of their rules, convenents, budgets and related documents on their websites by Jan. 1.

HOAs must provide notice and agendas for any scheduled meeting of its members at least 14 days in advance in plain sight on its website. Any document to be considered and voted on must be posted online at least seven days before the meeting.

An HOA with at least 1,000 parcels must prepare audited financial statements.

Official records must be made available to a parcel owner within 10 business days of receipt of their written request, with some restrictions on how many physical copies are permitted, or the HOA must pay damages. Violation is a second-degree misdemeanor. Refusal to comply with the intent of avoiding criminal investigations or punishment is a third-degree felony.

If an HOA receives a subpoena for records from a law enforcement agency, they must provide a copy or make them available for copying within five business days.

Every three months, a homeowner may make a written request for a detailed accounting of any and all money they owe to the association related to their parcel, and get it within 15 business days. If the board does not comply, any outstanding fines the person owes older than 30 days that they never received written notice of will be waived.

HOA director education, and bribes

A newly elected or appointed director must complete education on financial literacy and transparency, recordkeeping, levying of fines, and notice and meeting requirements within 90 days and repeat it at least every four years.

On top of that, the director of an HOA with fewer than 2,500 parcels must complete at least four hours of continuing education every year or be suspended until they do.

An HOA officer, director or manager who solicits offers or accepts kickbacks commits a third-degree felony and must immediately be removed from office.

HOA managers or management firms have to be involved and easy to find

An HOA manager or a representative of the HOA management firm must:

• Attend, in person, at least one annual member or board meeting
• Provide the name and contact information for every HOA manager or management form rep assigned to the HOA along with their hours of availability and a summary of their duties, which must be posted to the HOA's website and kept current
• Provide a copy of the contract between the manager or management firm and the HOA and keep it with the HOA records
• Complete at least five hours of continuing education on HOAs, with three hours relating to recordkeeping

What are HOAs?

A Homeowner's Association or HOA is an organization in a planned community, neighborhood subdivision or condominium building that creates and enforces rules for the properties, residents and guests. It charges fees to be used for the maintenance of the community and may levy fines against residents who violate the rules.

HOA rules are often in place to maintain conformity among the permitted architecture, color schemes, landscaping and decorations. HOAs also enforce parking restrictions, noise complaint policies, home occupancy limits,  vacation rentals  and more.

Anyone buying property within the jurisdiction of an HOA automatically becomes a member of the HOA and subject to its restrictions and covenants.