Last week I posted the question of the suitability of using aluminum to
build the boat. I didn't explain well what I plan to do.
I am involved in a company which has CNC plate cutting machinery, and
cut among other things, we cut aluminum parts used by local boat builders,
there are many aluminum crew boats and fishing boats built in South Louisiana. I
would buy complete plans including cut sheets for the AL pieces from a
designer (I like the looks of a 35' tug type trawler I have seen by Fleming Yacht
Design), have the cut pieces brought to a reputable builder who is
accustomed to working with AL. (I am happy with a nice work boat type finish). I
have a source for John Deere engines and think I can get favorable pricing for
the rest of the mechanical items which will be spec'd out by the designer and
put together by the builder.
I am thinking of a typical semi displacement hull, sedan or aft cabin
8-10 mph speed I will want walk around decks and flying bridge. There are lots
of other questions such as full paint, partially, or not at all, Insulation
for temp and sound, nonskid for decks, corrosion control, etc.
This is all just an idea for now, and wouldn't be started for a year or so.
Once I can get a cost estimate together I can decide whether to do it. If it
seems too expensive or the builders or suppliers or I have any qualms I will
look for an off the shelf trawler from one of the proven makers.
I appreciate the advice I have already received on and off line and hope to
hear more. The advice on this list, although free, is "priceless".
Steve Willett
Camano 31
Thibodaux, Louisiana
Last week I posted the question of the suitability of using aluminum to
build the boat. I didn't explain well what I plan to do.
I am involved in a company which has CNC plate cutting machinery, and
cut among other things, we cut aluminum parts used by local boat builders,
there are many aluminum crew boats and fishing boats built in South Louisiana. I
would buy complete plans including cut sheets for the AL pieces from a
designer (I like the looks of a 35' tug type trawler I have seen by Fleming Yacht
Design), have the cut pieces brought to a reputable builder who is
accustomed to working with AL. (I am happy with a nice work boat type finish). I
have a source for John Deere engines and think I can get favorable pricing for
the rest of the mechanical items which will be spec'd out by the designer and
put together by the builder.
I am thinking of a typical semi displacement hull, sedan or aft cabin
8-10 mph speed I will want walk around decks and flying bridge. There are lots
of other questions such as full paint, partially, or not at all, Insulation
for temp and sound, nonskid for decks, corrosion control, etc.
This is all just an idea for now, and wouldn't be started for a year or so.
Once I can get a cost estimate together I can decide whether to do it. If it
seems too expensive or the builders or suppliers or I have any qualms I will
look for an off the shelf trawler from one of the proven makers.
I appreciate the advice I have already received on and off line and hope to
hear more. The advice on this list, although free, is "priceless".
Steve Willett
Camano 31
Thibodaux, Louisiana
