Bowdidge Marine Designs

BMD Latest News (Week 9 - Mar - 2012)

2012-03-06T23:45:00.000+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS

What a week ! It was on, full bore finishing off the Pro Tournament 21 plans to get them down to Dean so he could continue building. All the while my mind was on the next design job...Kelvin & Tony's game fishing boat....the QUICKSTRIKE 36 (in between answering emails, telephone calls about new designs, existing designs, general enquiry's and printing and mailing out plans around the globe.

In regards to our boatbuilding forum, its great to see it continue to grow, with new and existing members contributing worldwide with their builds and comments.

So what's on for next week? Well, time to start hammering another design..or two, maybe get out into the shed and do bit of building, or just layabout down at the beach doing a bit of fishing (Crikey...I wish!).
Anyway, better get back to work, so you have a good one and...
HAVEAGREATWEEKEND
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com/

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

In World On Water this week's "Fresh to Frightening" features the Ten Most Awesome Power Boat Crashes!
Check it out on World On Water right now! Also on this episode:
2012 Etchells World Championships
2012 RORC Caribbean 600
2012 Tour of Arabia
Global Ocean Race Through the Eyes of Marco Nannini on Global Financial Crisis
"Fresh to Frightening" features the Ten Most Awesome Power Boat Crashes
2012 Winning Appliances JJ Giltinan Championships

Click HERE to this weeks latest action from around the globe !!!!

LATEST NEW DESIGN- THE PRO TOURNAMENT 21

The plans for the Pro Tournament 21 are now finished and now available on our website, including the fibreglass kit as well

This design has but one reason to exist: to help you catch the kind of fish that win tournaments - plain and simple.
Powered by a single outboard, the Pro Tournament 21 is untouchable in the open water, and yet the 21 will really prove itself when conditions deteriorate. With a standard 200 litre fuel tank capacity, 25 degree deadrise at the transom and flared bows, the Pro Tournament 21 will get you there faster, drier, and smoother than the rest.
Other features also include a livewell, enormous total fish box capacity, walk through transom, recessed grab rails and a huge cockpit area for where all the action is on your offshore fishing rampages.

So to experience the ultimate in offshore sport fishing performance,
the Pro Tournament 21....

... A Diamond in the Rough

Click HERE to see more of this offshore design

KELVIN'S LATEST FISHING REPORT

After going through many hours of footage, Tony has now edited the videos we have from our recent trips to Port Stephens.

I am the guy in the blue shirt and you will probably notice that we are pretty relaxed on deck whenever a fish is hooked. It is only when we have multiple hook ups do we get a little flustered. I am always preparing more rigs for the next bite whenever we hook up.

The way we fight marlin from a trailer boat is to keep the boat constantly moving forward. Forward is the best way in a trailer boat as reversing only causes trouble. The constant movement of the boat normally keeps the fish from sounding deep as the angle of the line is always kept shallow. You will also notice that we do not pump and wind with our stand up gear. If the harness is adjusted properly you can literally fight the fish hands free and you are using the boat to pick up line rather than using muscle power to pump and wind. Conserving energy is essential if you are going to catch multiple fish. The left hand is best kept on top of the reel to guide the line and to keep the rod away from your face in the event of the fish busting you off or the hooks pulling. It also keeps you balanced and your back is kept straight . Just use the right hand to wind whenever the fish isn't taking any drag.

I have seen guys literally fall right across the boat when they get busted off or if the hooks pull suddenly. One of my mates was hospitalised with head trauma when he landed on his head after falling this way. To prevent this from happening we have the rod almost horizontal..max 30 degrees and literally use it as line guide and NEVER have your hand on the rod.

This is my son Michael hooked up on a marlin getting the hang of stand up tackle. He is very tempted to grab something with his left hand!!! So used to holding the rod , he is naturally grabbing the side of the reel.

With a bit of coaching he is now into the groove. He is relaxed with his left hand on top of the reel and fighting the fish. The harness is doing its job and the boat is doing the hard work for him.

In the video you will notice a bloke in the green shirt-Nick. He has never caught a marlin before and we were slack not to give him the full harness on his first marlin! Later on you will see that I get real close and personal putting on the full harness for him. With a little coaching Nick did real well. By the end of the trip, he was a real pro.

Notice also that Tony is driving the boat most of the time. We always try to have the fish on one side the boat everytime. Doesn't matter if you prefer the starboard or port but by doing it this way, everything can be cleared on this side and the driver can position the boat to "cut the fish off at the pass" and not worry about cutting the line or running over the fish/line. Tony is now getting pretty good after taking the wheel of the boat this year....something that I am glad to relinquish.

Anyway here’s a video of the action I hope you guys have fun watching it.

BMD'S BOATBUILDING FORUM

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!

With 171 members and still growing, why not join Our Boatbuilding Forum, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S
Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog. If your building one of our designs, why not join our forum and post your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

HUGH'S SEA STRIKE 16

Rain Saturday, sun Sunday morning, rain Sunday arvo. Otherwise made some more good progress over the weekend. I've got a bit of a gap between the top and bottom plates at on eithe side if the point at the bow. A thick fillet will cover it, otherwise she fitted together like a jigsaw.

To see more of Hugh's Sea Strike 16 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Sea Strike 16 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

ADAM'S SEA STRIKE 16

After a few set backs... (nothing a bit of epoxy can’t fix and don’t loft late at night ) all I need to do is stitch and glue her together ..At the moment I’m lucky to get in a half a day tops with out a work or house duty related interruption At least the rain has backed off and that cool dry Autumn air is coming through.

Can’t wait to glass and flip her over

To see more of Adam's Sea Strike 16 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Sea Strike 16 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

CHRIS'S EDGETRACKER 487

I just snuck in a lamination late this arvo. It was one of those, “will I” or “wont I” situations with rain coming. So I did the last side, then time for the running strakes.

To see more of Chris's EdgeTracker 487 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the EdgeTracker 487 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

DEAN'S PRO TOURNAMENT 21

Here's the latest build pictures with the hull interior glassed, taken from our boatbuilding forum of Dean's Pro Tournament 21. Looks awesome !!

He even made a short video of the whole turnming over process, of which he rolled on his own for those that are interested.

To see more of Dean's Pro Tournament 21 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Pro Tournament 21 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

BUNDY TROPIC 14

We hav'nt been doing much of late due to so much design work and then also with all this rain. We did mange to scrap in an hour or two to cut all the cleats out and get them glued in, ready to put the sole in. Then it was back to the computer and back to designing.

To see more of Mark's Tropic 14 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Tropic 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

You can see more of these boats above , plus more by joining BMD's Boatbuilding forum !
--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 8 - Feb - 2012)

2012-03-02T12:38:00.002+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS

G'day all,

Sorry for the delay in posting the weekly blog, but things here at BMD are.... hectic (for want of a better word). Over the past week I've been working like mad to finalise the Pro Tournament 21 plans, as Dean has now caught up with me. ! So, the plans themselves will be finished today and then put up onto our website for those that are interested in building her. Keep watching HERE !

Also, I've been slowly making headway with Kelvins "QuickStrike 36" game boat. of which we are planning to get into "full bore" next week. So stay tuned to see more of this new design.

In regards to our Boatbuilding forum, it's good to see it take off with new members joining by the day and also members showing off their own builds, and providing great and positve comments on everybody elses. Nothing like a "positive" forum. Top One !!

Anyway, I could ramble on, but I've got work to do. !!!
So, have a good one and....
HAVEAGREATWEEKEND !!

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

The latest edition of World On Water can be seen on HERE. This exciting episode features hot action from:

2011-12 Volvo In-Port race Sanya China
2012 JJ Giltinan Championships
2012 RORC Caribbean 600
"Fresh to Frightening" featuring the Wing Ship and Hovering 500 by Korean company Wingship Technology Corp capable of speeds of up to 200kph!
2011-12 Volvo Ocean Race 4 Leg 1 Start Sanya, China to Sanya, China
2012 Tour of Arabia Race

So stay tuned and click HERE for all the latest action from around the world, right here at BMD

KELVINS LATEST FISHIN REPORT

The interclub is back with us again. It is a big tournament ... the biggest in Australia. The good thing is that the marlin are biting and are around in good numbers.
Tony and I are in the Botany Bay Gamefishing Club. Tony took these pictures on board Lockout a 30ft bertie.

This is how it starts! A good impression of a washing machine. The fish are caught mainly on slimey mackeral or big yakkas ( cowanyoung ) . Too many boats for lures. With this many boats churning the water the marlin sound deep. If you want to troll lures or switch bait then you have to find a bit of water to yourself which is pretty difficult with so many boats around. Guys do this but if you decide to go out and find empty water you really need to switch the radio off as it can drive you nuts hearing all the other guys getting fish!

The problem with marlin is that they jump and pretty soon EVERYONE knows you have a fish on!!! This is like throwing chips at a flock of seagulls and within minutes you WILL have 100's of boats around you. With striped marlin they are notoriously difficult to hook up on lures. THey have a habit of slashing at the bait and not really hitting them hard. Most guys only land 30% of these fish on lures. With baits it is closer to 80%. No need for further maths as baits win hands down.

Most of us take the hooks out of our lures and use them as teasers for striped marlin. This is a very exciting way of fishing as it is all visual. For the last 2-3 years I have been chasing a striped marlin world record on fly -whenever I got a crew willing to troll teasers all day. Got close a few times but it has been elusive! It is very interesting trying to gaff very green fish. A mate of mine, Eugene ( the jigging machine ) is a big maori bloke. He is my gaff man and we lost him over the side a few times after gaffing the fish:lol: . IGFA rules state that you can only use fixed gaffs for fly records. Lucky he is a good swimmer but we lost hundreds of dollars worth of gaffs. These days Eugene is a bit reluctant to be my gaff man ..wants to keep his pants on

With switch baiting the fish are brought up to the boat with teasers and then we throw in a pitch bait. You can use anything for a pitch bait. I have even used flathead, they are good as they skip really well Most people use slimey mackeral either dead or alive but if the fish are really switched on then anything will do. Belly flaps of dolphin fish. a fly or even salami Should try a banana one day.
When it comes to lures you open up a pandoras box! Striped marlin can only see blues and greens. We always run a lumo lure normally a pakula sproket and a moldcraft wide range in blue/white. Seems to bring them around. Lately for blacks I have had a lot of success with the Zac attack Yum Yum in ice cream over the shallow reefs. For blue marlin we run the big hatteras lures in blue/black. Unlike striped marlin, black and blue marlin can be successfully landed on lures most of the time.

Tony and I have 100's of marlin lures but we really run half a dozen. The best lures being the moldcraft wide range. They sit anywhere in the spread and just work.

HAVE FUN !!

BMD'S BOATBUILDING FORUM

I put the boat in the water today for its second sea-trials, (see attached photos).

Today, I ran the engine for another hour for its run-in at 15 knots, (about ¾ throttle), then had the chance to open it up for a few short runs in front of the camera. I hit 20.0 knots on the GPS on one run (with the tide) on WOT. Generally it was possible to get over 19.5 knots. The boat and engine feel very comfortable at 15 knots.

Sharp turns at 15+ knots are for the very adventurous. All the testing so far has been with one person and about 10kg of ballast (sand bag) on the forward sole. The original desire was to get 15 knots from a 10hp engine with two people on board. I am yet to have a run with my wife on, but I fully expect the boat to achieve the 15 knots. I do not think the boat needs 15 hp.

The boat feels quite stable at rest. It is easy to move about by keeping your weight low. The anchor cleat can be reached without the boat feeling unstable. I am already thinking about an electric motor for the front. I can see myself sitting on the front seat, facing forward with a foot controlled electric motor, (controller on the front sole), and casting lures on front of the boat.

I now regard the boat ready for service. My next job is to fit the car with racks to take the boat.

Thanks for the design.
Regards,
Alan.

For more SPLASH pictures, please click HERE

To see more of Alan's Magnum 12 Build, please click HERE.
For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog. If your building one of our designs, why not join our forum and post your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

HUGH'S SEA STRIKE 16

Here's the latest build pictures, taken from our boatbuilding forum of Hugh's (Colt) Sea Stike 16. Looks awesome !!

To see more of Hugh's Sea Strike 16 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Sea Strike 16 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

CHRIS'S EDGETRACKER 487

Hi guys

Started sheathing the hull. I've put a pic of the tissue ive used 26gms sqm ,its for a sacrifical sanding layer and takes up the excess resin and helps cover up the double bias gaps and print and the stiching on it.

Crikey, this boat looks like it can take anything thrown at it !!!

To see more of Chris's EdgeTracker 487 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the EdgeTracker 487 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

ADAM'S SEA STRIKE 16

Been chipping away at the Sea Strike. Things are starting to come together and the Sea Strikes shape is starting to form

Its great to have some sun!!

To see more of Adam's Sea Strike 16 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Sea Strike 16 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

DEAN'S PRO TOURNAMENT 21

Here's the latest build pictures, taken from our boatbuilding forum of Dean's Pro Tournament 21. Looks awesome !! He even made a short video of the whole turnming over process, of which he rolled on his own for those that are interested.
Click HERE to view

To see more of Dean's Pro Tournament 21 build, please click HERE

For more information about the Pro Tournament 21 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

You can see more of these boats above , plus more by joining BMD's Boatbuilding forum !
--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 6 - Feb - 2012)

2012-02-16T10:08:00.001+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS
G'day all,

what an amazing week. With so much going on, we had decided to make our weekly news ...monthly. But with so emails asking could we please continue with the "weekly News" that we decided to continue with it.

With heaps to do today, I'll leave it here.
So have a good one and....
HAVEAGOODWEEKEND !

FISHING VIDEO CLIP'S

Clips taken from the most action-packed fishing shows and video's around! While the boys are out fishing, you'll be able to catch special clips right here.

We keep adding more clips weekly, so don't forget to catch all the action right HERE on our website at http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com/.

KELVINS LATEST FISHIN REPORT

I guess everyone in NSW is wondering where summer has gone. It has been a wet, cold, dark and miserable summer. I have not seen a summer as bad as this EVER but the good news is that the fishing has been very good.
The problem is that the weather has been unpredictable at best. We are getting sudden storms, flash flooding and unrelenting winds. These conditions are not conducive to fishing. This weekend was one of these unpredictable weather events. Where calm conditions suddenly changes. This is not the traditional summer pattern.

But we are a tough lot and brave the seas as long as it is not life threatening. This weekend saw some Victorian anglers joining us for some marlin fishing. These guys were very keen to get out. We had 2-3 meter waves ( and rising ) and the mexicans thought it was nothing. They gave Tony a few tips on driving the boat in less than ideal conditions. The waters of Bass straight and the southern ocean is rough....our east coast conditions are in comparison a mill pond!

Bravado aside, we don't go out in bad conditions but it was a case of good conditions when we got out which changed to pretty crook conditions as the day wore on.
The marlin were co-operating however.

I am already getting sick of seeing Tony's face next to a marlin but apart from getting a few bill scratches on the boat, this is a great way to revive the fish and a good photo opportunity. But we got lucky with some jump shots.

This kept the mexicans happy. Got 4th place in the "state of origin" fishing tournament with 3 landed and a couple which dropped off the hook...from inexperienced mexicans on the rod . Not bad for an afternoon's fishing.

The video footage of our marlin fishing is both hilarious and enlightening. We got a few underwater views of marlin and some of the shots are spectacular. Tony is busily editing it but he and I don't have much spare time when the marlin are running this good. Hardly got time to re-rig our tackle let alone edit videos. Our reels are starting to look a bit knocked about and we need some new line.

When the seas rise, we really miss the big boat..even a riv! Gives us a whole lot of motivation to build our 35.
Cheers Kelvin

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

On this week's episode of World On Water we have amazing action from the Volvo Ocean Race where Camper did running repairs below the waterline, 2011-12 Global Ocean Race, 2012 Warren Jones International Youth Regatta, 2012-12 Clipper Race Singapore-Qingdao Race 8, 2012 Race 5 Australian 18 Foot Championships and the 2011-12 Volvo Ocean Race Sanya China Leg 3 Stage 2 Finish.

Check out the latest show and all the action on our Website …. now

BMD'S BOATBUILDING FORUM

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!

With nearly 131 members and only 6 weeks old, why not join Our Boatbuilding Forum, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog. If your building one of our designs, why not join our forum and post your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

SEAN'S MUSHULU 12

Finished painting mark. I got a build plate too. Here's a photo of the foam growing. Im going for a spin on Saturday so I'll send some photos and let you know how it goes thanks mate

For more information about the Mushulu 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

ALAN'S MAGNUM 12

Mark,

Please see the attached photos showing the Magnum 12 in its completed form. I now need to get the registration formalities out of the way so I can get it wet.

Can you please provide the information necessary for completion of the Australian Builders Plate. I believe I need this before I can get a HIN and NSW registration.

I think the boat looks good, and am keen to water test it. I have purchased a 9.9hp Suzuki long shaft 4 stroke engine, which weighs 42kg.

Regards,
Alan.

To see more of Alan's Magnum 12 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

KEN'S MUSHULU 14

Hi Mark,

Some more progress. I've drilled the drainage holes in the engine well as advised. Both the middle and rear soles are in & glassed. I've done at least one coat of epoxy over everything. I'll give it at least one more before I start to fill and sand ready for painting. I'm not sure about the side pockets between the seats now. I've looked at some oars and they seem like they'll take up most of that space. I suppose it's time I started looking at all the bits and pieces seriously now.

regards Ken

To see more of Ken's Mushulu 14 Build, please click HERE. For more information about the Mushulu 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

BUNDY'S TROPIC 14

Glad today is over and done with. ( I hate sanding )

After sanding, we were going to rip the boat outside to wash it down and whilst outside, clean the shed out from all the dust etc. But the rain clouds kicked in and before you know it, it was 4:30pm. So we called it a day.

We'll clean and roll here over tomorrow... ready to start the interior !

To see more of Bundy's Tropic 14 Build, please click HERE.
For more information about the Tropic 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

ROSS'S SANDY STRAIT 14

Here's the latest pics of Rosses Mushulu 14 build

To see more of Ross's Sandy Strait 14 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Sandy Strait 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

CHRIS'S EDGETRACKER 487

Had to sort out the jig and framing again and am happy with it now. So I did a dry run to see how the panels would line up and matching the chine flat lines on the frame to see how much to trim off. I’ve just got to relax the stitching a full twist on the bottom panels to gap the keel but otherwise it’s lining up good. By the looks of things with some final trimming on the chine flats, I’ll start to stitch them to the bottom panels.

To see more of Chris's Edge Tracker 487 Build, please click HERE. For more information about the Edge Tracker 487 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

COLT'S SEA STRIKE 16

Well the rain finally let up enough to start putting some bits and pieces together.
The strong back got raised a bit after Mark's tip that it needs to be high enough to climb under (thanks Mark, it was going to be a real tight squeeze.) The bulkheads have been cut and I've just started butting the longitundinals together.

To see more of Colt's Sea Strike 16 Build, please click HERE. For more information about the Sea Strike 16 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

DEAN'S PRO-TOURNAMENT 21

Most of highbuild on ready for topcoat this week I hope.

regards
Deano

To see more of Dean's Pro Tournament 21 Build, please click HERE. For more information about the Pro-Tournament 21 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

You can see more of these boats above , plus more by joining BMD's Boatbuilding forum !
--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 4 - Jan - 2012)

2012-01-25T20:32:00.000+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS

Well, here we are and its nearly the end of January.....already. We were hoping to get a lot done on our Tropic 14 and RipTide 457, but the monsoon is now in full swing and its rain, rain, rain. Oh well, back inside to hit the computer again ...designing.

Anyway, thats all from me this week, so have a good one and....
HAVEAGREATWEEKEND

FISHING VIDEO CLIP'S

The latest edition of World on Water features top action from 2012 Australian A Class Championships, 2011-12 VOR Leg 3 Start Abu Dhabi-Sanya and the Abu Dhabi in-port race, 2012 Ben Ainslie Press Conference, 2012 World Ice and Snow Sailing and in "Fresh to Frightening" we feature the 2010 San Francisco International Skiff Regatta.

Catch up on all of the latest sailing news HERE on our website, the best online sailing TV show.

BMD'S BOATBUILDING FORUM

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!

With nearly 90 members and only 4 weeks old, why not join Our Boatbuilding Forum, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not join our forum and post your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

HAMISH'S MUSHULU 14

Hey Mark,

Just about finished the boat now! Got a good high build primer and have given the outside a few coats.
Cheers again for all your help,
Hamish

To see more of the Mushulu 14 design, please click HERE

MARK'S TROPIC 14

G'day all,

Managed to quickly do the strakes on the Tropic 14. Here we just filled them with a mixture of resin/ Q-cells, wiping level, then waited around 2 hours then topped up. Tomorrow, I'll sand them flat, then glass them with 450 gm DB. After finishing the strakes today, we then jumped over to the RipTide XR-457

To see more of the Tropic 14 design, please click HERE

CHRIS'S EDGETRACKER 487

Started joining the ply today and did the chine flats and added the back section to one bottom panel.
I just use a scraper over the peel ply to remove the excess resin before i put some clear plastic over it so you can see if its moved you can do the same with the plastic,i used 108mil mixed a little to much so on the reverse side ill cut back.

To see more of the EdgeTracker 487 design, please click HERE

ADAM'S SEA STRIKE 16

Hi Guys,

I’ve just finished welding up a cradle for the jig to sit on. It has adjustable legs for height and wheels so I can move it around. The legs will be attached with U bolts. My work shop has limited space so I have decided to do the build out the front of the entrance of the work shop under cover. I just received a 3x6 Marquee style cover with roll up sides which should do the job...I hope so it’s a cheap one

I built the cradle out of two 8m lengths of 3mm 100x50 RHS. The wheels were given to me from a mate with his best fishing interests in mind I’ve used jockey wheels in the past but these are a bit pricy and you can’t beat free stuff

So it’s started! The Sea Strike on its way! The jig and frames are next and then I’ll be well and truly on my way
Cheers
Adam

To see more of the Sea Strike 16 design, please click HERE

MARKS RIPTIDE XR-457

After working on the Tropic 14 this morning , we then jumped over onto the Riptide.

Here we cut out the access doors into the storage compartments and also an access door into the engine well sump. I then knocked up a couple of ringframes for the doors and then drilled a couple of drainage hole's thru the rear bulkhead, to drain the cockpit into the engine well sump, a couple of drainage holes through the transom from the engine well and also a couple of holes thru the storage areas into the sump as well. The it was time to glue them all into place and also wipe glue into the endgrain of all the drainage holes endgrain

To see more of the RipTide XR-457 design, please click HERE

TONY'S CRUISE CONTROL 5.2

Hi all,
The last of the cockpit sole being put down with buoyancy foam in place. I have fitted the cockpit drain in front of bulklhead 6, I think it will work
regards
Tony

To see more of the Cruise Control 5.2 design, please click HERE

DEAN'S PRO-TOURNAMENT 21

G'day all,
Strakes glued in ready to fill and sand,

Dean

To see more of the Pro Tournament 21 design, please click HERE

You can see more of these boats above , plus more by joining BMD's Boatbuilding forum !
--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 3 - Jan - 2012)

2012-01-18T12:47:00.004+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS

Cruising thru the South China Sea - 2002

What another exciting week here at BMD. Crikey, it's just go, go, go. Between juggling building the Tropic 14, designing new boats, writing articles and then printing and posting boat plans, damn its good to have 36 hours in a day. !!

In the past, we'd get so many enquires regarding the Tropic 14, but like all things, the question most often asked was "Has one been built yet?".
So Debbie and I went head to head going full bore to build one. Well, since starting, orders are now coming in to purchase the plans. !
With the build itself, we were on a real role.... until the rains came. So we downed tools and headed inside to work on Kelvins 35- 40 ft game boat (still working on the small detail) and also decided to write an article on "Powering your boat"

It's also good to see our Boatbuilding Forum gaining new members every day, jumping in to talk boats. So hopefully we'll see you there as well !

And as for the design office, yes, the phone still rings like mad, but that's ok. I could talk boats... ALL DAY !!

Anyway, that's enough from me for this exciting week.
So, have a good one and....
HAVEAGREATWEEKEND

IFISH VIDEO CLIP'S

How to catch a 60lb Baramundi

Clips taken from the most action-packed fishing show around! While Paul Worsteling and the boys are out fishing, you'll be able to catch special clips right here.
We keep adding more clips weekly, so don't forget to catch all the action right here on our website at http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com/.

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

The latest edition of World on Water reports on the finish of Leg 2 of the Global Ocean Race in Wellington, the Volvo Ocean Race, the World Optimist Championships, action from the Jules Verne Trophy and "Fresh to Frightening" with official footage of a RNLI rescue.

Don't miss out on this amazing show which can be seen on our website. Why not share it with a friend of yours who is also mad about sailing

LATEST NEW LAUNCHING - MARKS MUSHULU 14

Dear Mark,

As promised, photo's of my Mushulu on our recent Christmas holidays at Tuross Head, my son driving the boat.

The whole family is very happy with the boat. When my son and I first took it out, we felt the bow was riding high, but are getting used to it now. Don't regret the bigger motor one bit.

Last night, my son, who turns 18 this Saturday, said 'Can you and I go out for a drive together for my birthday?' Just imagine, an 18 year old who wants to spend (some of) his birthday with his Dad!

A few people commented on the boat at the ramp. Scott Mazzucchelli came round for a chat. I sang your, richly deserved, praises in terms of your backup and the detail of the plans, and hopefully he will go ahead with a (?) Flat Chat 16.

Incidentally, if anyone wants to discuss details from the builder's point of view, please feel free to give them my number (9416 9665). If they might want to come around to see the boat, Killara is within 30' drive of north shore, northern beaches and hills districts.
regards Mark

It's great to see how building and having your own boat, can bring a family together !

BMD's NEW BOATBUILDING FORUM

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!

With nearly 80 members and only 3 weeks old, why not join Our Boatbuilding Forum, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S
Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not join our forum and post your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

DEAN'S PRO-TOURNAMENT

Have to nuckle down tomorrow and get bottom sanded. Want to glass it next week and fair topsides in. Then glue strakes in,laminate in ,and fair bottom in, Transom revealed for first time. pushing ahead

regards Dean.

BUNDY TROPIC 14
G'day all.

GLASS DAY !!

Anyway, I thought I'd throw up a series of photo's of how we glass in sequence. Overall, we're pretty happy with the end result.

You can see more of these boats above , plus more by joining BMD's Boatbuilding forum !
--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 2 - Jan - 2012)

2012-01-12T11:00:00.001+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS

G'day all,

Hope we had a great Xmas and new Years. Well, for us here at BMD, what a great start for the year. With the Sea Strike 16 plans finished, it took of with a bang, with plans being sent around the world ! We've also had enquires from overseas in regards to our "plywood plate" designs, asking can they be converted to aluminium. So, this is another avenue we're also looking into.

Just in this past week, we've had more enquires on new designs, even up to 72 ft. Also, Kevin and Tony rang yesterday and over the Xmas break, decided to scrap the 27 ft game boat and to go whole hog and ordered a 35 ft "full on" game boat to be built in Sydney. They want to use this to cruise up and down the Australian coastline , from Port Douglas to Sydney, entering all the big game fishing competitons.

So overall, this year is shaping up to be a big one.
Anyway, that's all from us here at BMD this week,
so you Have a good one and ....
HAVEAGREATWEEKEND !!

IFISH VIDEO CLIP'S

Wahoo fishing off Vanuatu/ South Pacific

The latest edition of World On Water features 2011 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race Finish, 2011-12 Volvo Ocean Race Leg 2 Cape Town-Abu Dhabi, 2012 Pittwater-Coffs Harbour Race Start, "Fresh to Frightening" featuring the Sydney 18 Footers with high winds and capsizes, and much more! So catch the latest world action with "World on Water, right here on our website at http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com/

LATEST UPDATE NEWS ON THE NEW SEA STRIKE 16

What a week with the Sea Strike 16. No sooner had the plans been released and within 2 hours we sold 5 sets of plans, 4 in Australia and 1 in South Africa.
We look forward to seeing this new offshore design being built .
To see more of this new exciting design, please click HERE.

BMD's NEW BOATBUILDING FORUM

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!

So, why not join Our Boatbuilding Forum, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

ALAN'S MAGNUM 12

Mark,

The attached photos show the completed paint on the outside of the boat.
I rolled it back to right side up today, ready to sand and paint the inside.
However, I am involved in sailing regattas for the next three weeks, so I do not expect to make any significant progress until the end of the month.

Regards,
Alan.

DEANS PRO-TOURNAMENT 21

Thanks Chris for the compliment. Yes I will laminate it myself. The trick is to just go steady and work at your won pace. Before you know it, the job is done and then you move onto the next stage.

Now ready for plank filling. Keep you posted
Regards
Deano

BUNDY'S TROPIC 14

We didn't get to much done today. So many other things to do, like print out plans and then go into town to post them plus other jobs around the place.

Anyway, we did manage to get the Longitudinals into postion and then glue them in. Before we put the longitudinals in, we placed the plywood "skin" over the frames to make sure that it was going to fit well. Spot on
Anyway, here's todays picture

MARKS RIPTIDE XR-457

G'day all,

I managed this afternoon to get back into the boat again. So I made up the back storage compartments and engine well sides and then did a quick dry fit into place. Since I had a spare plastic hatch from our previous build, I'll use this to give an access port into the sump under the engine well itself.

I've already cut thru the rear bulkhead and am just starting to fit the hatch now, but my compressor re-set button began to play up and was cutting out before the tanks were filled. So down tools to fix that.

Anyway, here's a couple of pictures and whilst having a coffee. Sweet

GERARDS SPORTZ 16

Hi Mark,

Hope you and Debbie had a nice chrismas holydays and a happy new year celebration.

In the attachement I send you some building pictures of the Sports16. As you can see in the photographs, I did the planking a little different. The reason was, that in my opinion there was too much stress in the strips especially at the sheer. So I decided not to bend the strips so much laterally and do some more cutting. The result is the strange strip pattern, but I dont think, that is less strong. For safety, I used a 280g/m2 biaxial glass for covering inside and outside. I also fixed a great number of ply strips on the planks for a good definition of the curvature.

So now, I think the hull is very beautifull and strong and I will start with the centerboard case and the inner frames this week.

Looking forward to your comments
Kind regards
Gerhard

You can see more of these boats above , plus more by joining BMD's Boatbuilding forum !

--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 1 - Jan - 2012)

2012-01-05T19:55:00.000+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS

2002 - Crossing the Indian Ocean

Well, I hope we all had a great Xmas and new Years eve. With another week almost finished and the plans for the Sea Strike 16 now finished, it's time to start yet another design...Kelvins 27 ft game boat. We're also working towards getting out into our shed a lot more as we're wanting to get into our RipTide Xr-457 and also to begin yet another design build (can't say yet..so stay tuned)

So with heaps to do tonight as within an hour of listing the Sea Strike 16 design on our website, we sold 2 sets of plans, so its time to get printing !! We look forward to seeing this design getting built shortly.

Anyay, you Have a good one and ....
HAVEAGREATWEEKEND

IFISH VIDEO CLIP'S

Start off 2012 on the right foot by checking out the latest episode of World On Water featuring top action from:
2011 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race
2011 Volvo Ocean Race Leg 2 Cape Town-Abu Dhabi
2011 Clipper Race
2011 Sail Sydney Regatta
2011-12 Jules Verne Trophy
"Fresh to Frightening" this week we feature what happens when a crew member is overboard and a helicopter is called to save them. Bob Oatley's super-maxi Rolex Sydney Hobart race winning yacht, Wild Oats XI, is used as a test demonstration in conjunction with the New South Wales Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. you can catch all teh action on our website

LATEST NEW DESIGN - NOW AVAILABLE

When fishing is your business or a passion you live for, the Sea Strike 16 comes with more standard equipment and unique, pro-level fishing features than any boat in its class.

With our tournament-proven 20 degree deadrise hull design, delivering top-end speeds and great handling through a variety of conditions and a ride unlike any other, the Sea Strike 16 is packed with features you might not have thought you needed, but we did.

She includes a large center console for extensive electronics, kill tank, ice box facilites, under floor storage, walk through transom and up to a 120 litre optional fuel capacity for those long offshore runsFrom trolling the shallows or racing to your favorite offshore fishing grounds, experience the ultimate in sport fishing performance.

Click HERE to see more of this design

Kelvins Sydney Fishing Report

Once again the conditions have forced us to stay inside. Being the last week of my holidays I didn't want to waste it by not fishing!

Here is Tony with another Jewie on a lure caught in Sydney.

The harbour is full of fish at the moment. Lots of bonito, tailer and salmon busting up on the surface the whole day. Pretty good fishing to be had but the jewies are the ultimate.

The weather is looking good for tomorrow. This is good news for the jewies as we won't molest them and head out for some bluewater action. Will be out fishing for marlin. A couple of fish will be nice. James is keen on a marlin while Michael is an old pro .
Cheers Kelvin

You can see more of Kelvins Fishing stories by visiting our Boatbuilding forum

BMD's NEW BOATBUILDING FORUM

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!
So, why not join Our Boatbuilding Forum, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

ALAN'S MAGNUM 12

Mark,

Please find attached two photos showing the planning strakes.
These are complete and faired.
The inside has two coats of epoxy on the seats and sole.
The boat is now ready for paint.

I plan on using Northane marine enamel, white outside and sandstone inside with cream non-skid.

The outer edge of the gunwale will remain bright with varnish.

Regards,
Alan.

DEAN'S PRO TOURNAMENT 21

Well I did it! 750 lin metres of Pauownia later, 76 hrs into the build and the boat is fully planked. Mark sure had designed a unique styled boat. What a ripper. Gotta loe that flare.

It's been a pleasure so far, but will keep pushing ahead into the beautiful styled boat to see where the journey takes us
regards
Deano

MARKS RIPTIDE XR-457

After working a bit over the xmas brak on the new Sea Strike 16 design, I managed to get out into the shed to do a bit of work on our boat.
First job to get into was the rear back deck and engine well.. After cutting out all the parts required, I then dry fitted them ready for glassing. (Next job) I was hoping to have it all glassed up by the time I posted this blog, but I got caught away designing...again.

You can see more of these boats above , plus more by joining BMD's Boatbuilding forum !

--------------------------------------------------

So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 52 - Dec - 2011)

2011-12-31T19:15:00.001+10:00

A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR TO ALL FOR 2012
FROM US AT BMD

BMD Latest News (Week 50 - Dec - 2011)

2011-12-23T00:47:00.003+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS

What another hectic week.

With Xmas almost upon us, the pressure was on to clear the desk. Just when I thought I was making headway, I recieved a call from Aluminium Boats Australia ( http://www.allyboats.com.au/) asking would I be interested in a quick contract job for them....a complete preliminary re-design of 24 m (80ft) passenger ferry design superstructure. The present design calls for composite construction, whereas they would like a total alloy superstructure for a quicker build time.

So, this naturally meant I had to down tools and focus all my attention on this new project.

Anyway, HOPEFULLY... I'll be able to finish the New design, as shown below (the Sea Strike 16) sometime shortly after Xmas.

Also...we've also done a few small changes to the website, to make it easier to find your way around whilst looking at the designs.

Speaking of Xmas, we here at BMD wish everyone a Merry Xmas for you and your families and also a Happy and prosperous New Year.

Anyway, got a ton of work to do before Xmas and yes..I did recieve the "2nd memo" about taking time off.

So have a good one and ....
HAVEAGREATWEEKEND

Formula 1 game Fishing Tournament Video Clip
Port Douglas/ North Queensland/ Aust.

We keep adding more clips weekly, so don't forget to catch all the action right HERE.

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

The latest edition of World On Water features the final Extreme Sailing Series Act 9 in Singapore, The Volvo Ocean Race Cape Town In-Port Race and the start of Leg 2, the first week of the ISAF Perth World Cup in Perth, "Fresh to Frightening" with a big powerboat roll-over and much more.
World On Water contains all of the latest action from around the world of sailing. Remember to check back every Friday to see the latest edition of the show. Click here to see all the latest action !

LATEST NEW DESIGN

When fishing is your business or a passion you live for, the Sea Strike 16 comes with more standard equipment and unique, pro-level fishing features than any boat in its class.

With our tournament-proven 20 degree deadrise hull design, delivering top-end speeds and great handling through a variety of conditions and a ride unlike any other, the Sea Strike 16 is packed with features you might not have thought you needed, but we did.

She includes a large center console for extensive electronics, kill tank, ice box facilites, under floor storage, walk through transom and up to a 120 litre optional fuel capacity for those long offshore runsFrom trolling the shallows or racing to your favorite offshore fishing grounds, experience the ultimate in sport fishing performance.

Click HERE to see more of this design

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

SPLASHED - RICHARDS MUSHULU 12

Hi Mark,

Well I finally launched yesterday at Lake Illawarra, about 20 minutes drive from home. We didn't stay out too long, just a quick flit around Gooseberry Island to make sure all was well with the boat. And it was.

With two adults on board and a small wind chop the new 15hp Yamaha whipped us on to the plane in no time flat - the bow initially lifted then trimmed down nicely as the speed increased. No probs. Tracking was fine and turning effortless. No spray either, despite the breeze, the flare of the bow and topsides kept everything nice and dry.

I haven't taken any video yet, but will in the next week or two, I have attached a couple more photos as well.

I'm really happy with the end result, the boat is great and we are all looking forward to catching a few fish from it! My eldest son is now considering a stitch and glue kayak for his year 12 Construction project: He has been a little inspired......

Just for the record I used Bote-Cote throughout, all hull joins used double bias tape. Finish was in Norglass Shipshape epoxy primer then Northane 2 pack gloss over the exterior. The internal remains in just primer at this stage. The samson post and bow roller were just for fun! I'll send some video when I take some, if you want more photos let me know.

Best wishes for Chrissie and all that,
Richard.

To see more of Richard's Mushulu 12 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Mushulu 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

DEANS PRO-TOURNAMENT 21

We just recieved the 2nd lot of build pictures from Dean.
We hope you enjoy watching his build.

To see more of Dean's Pro Tournament 21 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Pro-Tournament 21 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

OUR BOATBUILDER CONNECTION.

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!
So, why not join Our Boatbuilder Connection, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

--------------------------------------------------

So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 49 - Dec - 2011)

2011-12-13T22:58:00.002+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS

2002 - Sailing across the Indian Ocean

With only 2 weeks to Xmas, the enquires for more new designs just keeps coming in.!! Just today whilst putting together this weeks blog, I've had 3 enquires for new designs, one from an alloy boatbuilding company in Germany asking about 15 designs in total to go into production! Anyway, we'll see what happens.

This week we've got a few more build photo's plus a new design now under consruction. Also, Kelvin from Sydney sent us his latest fishing report (Thanks Kelvin), plus other new updates as well.

At present I'm working on a new 16 ft offshore console design for Steve from Mackay (QLD- Aust). So with the 3-D model now 95% finished and the plans about to begin, this time next week we should have a few renderings of the design to show you all. (Just have to think of a "Name" for this new design... Hmmm)

Anyway, got a ton of work to do before Xmas and yes..I did get the memo about taking time off.

So have a good one and ....
HAVEAGREATWEKEND

IFISH VIDEO CLIP'S

Barra fishing the Top End

Clips taken from the most action-packed fishing show around! While Paul Worsteling and the boys are out fishing, you'll be able to catch special clips right here.

We keep adding more clips weekly, so don't forget to catch all the action right HERE.

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

On the latest edition of "World on Water" we feature the recent China Cup Regatta, the start of Leg 2 of the Global Ocean Race in Cape Town, the PWA Supremesurf, the Jules Verne Trophy attempt by Banque Populaire V, "Fresh to Frightening" featuring a catamaran being blasted off the water by Banque Populaire V and much more!

To catch all the latest action from around the world of sailing, remember to check back every week to see the latest updates. Click HERE to view.

LATEST NEW DESIGN

The EdgeTracker Offshore 487 Plans now available

When it comes to taking the waves head-on, the Edge Tracker 487 packs a mighty punch. Big boat attitude in a mid range package easily describes the Edge Tracker 487 in perfect detail. We've taken the same high-tech boat building techniques used for the rest of our designs and incorporated them here, including the wave busting 18 º hull design that makes for such a such a great ride.

The cockpit is open and uncluttered, giving you plenty of fish fighting room, loads of storage compartments under the deck, lockers and fish holders along the side of the hull. Also included is a recessed anchor locker and a boarding step for easy access to climb aboard. Easy to maintain and trailer, Edge Tracker 487 will provide you with years of family fun and offshore memories.
Click HERE to see more of this exciting new design

KELVIN'S SYDNEY FISHING REPORT

Kelvin

Hello everyone. I think a lot of you guys know that I have been repowering the Donkobros with a new Yamaha. The Evinrude was getting tired and a new motor was needed. On the advice of Micky I got a brand new Yamaha 4 stroke. Wasn't cheap but I hope it will do the job. By the way if you know anyone who wants a second hand 250hp Etec then let me know.

This repowering has grounded me for a few weeks and they have been some of the longest weeks I have experienced. It just seems like nothing was happening. I was even having issues with work and golf !!! Just goes to show that fishing just about fixes everything.

Micky completed the installation of the Yamaha around 12.30pm today. As soon as the sikaflex dried, I was going on the water to test the new engine. I guess this engine is part of my family as it shares my surname.

I was at the boat ramp around 2pm and saw a couple of guys cleaning fish. One of the guys had a very small undersized kingfish. I am not sure if he even knew what type of fish it was but I left him to his own devices. With me were my 2 boys Michael and James. Michael has undergone a massive growth spurt recently and he is now almost as tall as his mother. I guess he will quickly catch up to me.

I had to test several things on the boat and to run in the engine but I brought along a couple of rods just in case.

The new motor had to be kept under 2000rpm for the first hour. This was really trying my patience as the boat will only do about 6-7knots at this rpm. It gave both my boys a chance to steer the boat and move the throttle back and forth. After this agonising period I could get the boat on plane but not to full throttle and the manual suggested I stay around 3000rpm. This was far better as I could get the boat to around 20knots.

As is always the case when you are on the water, your casting arm gets itchy. I driove around a few squidding spots and it was hard to go past them without casting a few squid jigs. As luck would have it, I managed to catch around 7 squid. The Yamaha was inked several times which I guess is something that it will get used to.

After this I could sneak the motor up a few more revs and 30 knots came around 4000rpm. This is basically the same as my Etec so I anticipate the top speed will remain similar. As I cannot rev to top rpms yet, I still don't know what the top speed is or whether the prop needs adjustment....something to look forward to.

With these squid in the tank, it would have been a waste not to use them for some bait. Of course in Sydney it means Kingfish! I stopped at a few markers and the kings were in residence. They were small at some of the spots and larger in others.

These kings were the best for the day

These fish are nothing to write home about but they aren't too bad for a motor test. With the water temps around 20C, the kings are in super charged mode and really are pulling hard.

As always there are a couple of small teething problems to sort out but the Yamaha is a great success. See you out there.
Cheers
Kelvin
If you have any fishing story's or adventures you'd like to share with us all, why not send them in and we'll post it here !

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S
Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them
ALAN'S MAGNUM 12

Mark,

I am pleased to say that I have completed construction on the inside of the boat. In the attached photos you can see the gusset under the centre of both seats. The seats are now quite solid. You can also see the side shelves between the seats, which stabilise the top-side panel between the seats.
I have also lashed out and used some of the left over ply to make a removable centre seat.
I have added loops under the starboard side shelf to keep the sounder cables off the floor, and made my own rowlock blocks.

Next step is to do the two coats of epoxy on the bare timber, then roll the boat over to do the planing strakes, before I start to paint.

Progress photos will be slower coming as Christmas activities are starting to get in the way, and there will be less to show between coats of paint.

Have a great Christmas, and keep safe.

Regards,
Alan.

To see more of Alan's Magnum 12 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

ROSS'S SANDY STRAIT

During the past week , Ross sent in a series of his latest build pictures of his Sandy Strait 14.

To see more of Ross's Sandy Strait 14 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Sandy Strait 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

DEANS PRO-TOURNAMENT 21

The Pro tournament 21 has but one reason to exist: to help you catch the kind of fish that win tournaments - plain and simple.

Powered by a single outboard, the Pro Tournament 21 is untouchable in the open water, and yet the 21 will really prove itself when conditions deteriorate. With a standard 180 litre (48.24 US Gallons) fuel tank capacity, 24 degree deadrise at the transom and flared bows, the Pro Tournament 21 will get you there faster, drier, and smoother than the rest.

The Pro- Tournament 21 is coming together very nicely. Thanks to Mark (the designer) who has meticulously designed a fantastic sea boat with all the right qualities. So far it’s been a pleasure to put together. 27 hours up to this stage and I can’t wait to start strip planking

Regards
Dean

To see more of Dean's Pro-Tournament 21 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Pro- Tournament 21 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

OUR BOATBUILDER CONNECTION.

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!
So, why not join Our Boatbuilder Connection, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

--------------------------------------------------

So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 48 - Nov - 2011)

2011-12-06T18:39:00.006+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS

With Xmas just a couple of weeks away, I'm head down trying to clean up the "books" so to speak. With a few designs now on our Latest New designs webpage, I quickly working my way through them so that next year I can concentrate more on the bigger boats that we have in store.

Another feature we've added to our website is the "IFish video clips, taken from various episodes (see below) So if your into fishing and wanting all the latest tips, keep watching this space and our website as we bring you yet even more each week.

We've just finished the first part of the plans for the Pro Tournament 21, which I spoke of last week. Dean has now received the plans and we hope to see more of this exciting new offshore design getting built shortly. Were also looking at having the EdgeTracker 487 (16 ft) plans finished later this week and available, for those that are interested.

Also, it's good to see so many build pictures coming through this week. It's getting to the stage where I'm going to have to giving the plan number as well, so I can recognize who is who on the forum ha ha

Anyway, that's all for this week, so have a good one and...
HAVEAGREATWEEKEND

IFISH VIDEO CLIP'S

Clips taken from the most action-packed fishing show around! While Paul Worsteling and the boys are out fishing, you'll be able to catch special clips right here. We keep adding more clips weekly, so don't forget to catch all the action right HERE.

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

This week's "World on Water" covers the WMRT Monsoon Cup from Malaysia, the Transat Jacques Vabre finish, the Announcement for next year's Vendee Globe, Loick Peyron in the Jules Verne Trophy record attempt, the dramatic mid-Atlantic fuel transfer to Puma in the Volvo while Telefonica finishes, "Fresh to Frightening" featuring Ice Sailors on frozen lakes at 100kph and much more!

It's another action packed show you will not want to miss so watch it now HERE.

" CHOOSING THE RIGHT BOAT " MONTHLY ARTICLE

Building a new boat should be a time of excitement and anticipation. Everyone is unique and has a range of wants and needs, influencing the type of vessel most suited to them. If you have been involved in boating for numerous years you will be familiar with its many aspects and have a good idea on the specifications you are after. However, if this is your first time building a boat, we would like to offer some basic advice to think about.
The very first thing to consider is what marine environment you are planning to use your new boat in. Will you be fishing lakes and impoundments? Maybe creeks and estuaries? Or perhaps offshore? The type of activities you plan to partake in also plays an equally important role in the design and .....CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Next month we'll look at the materials for you boat and, the pro's and cons of plywood vs plywood composite construction

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

BRENDAN'S MUSHULU 12

Mark

Its been a while but there has been some progress, but very slow due to other projects, work and baby.
So here's few emails with recent pictures, additional protection on the keel added.
Regards
Brendan

G'day Brendan,
Glad to hear from you again. Looks great. Its amazing how little kids/ family outings etc etc consume time. Stops one from getting out there and building.

At present whilst writing this letter, my grand kids are running amok here. Crikey they make a mess. ha ha

regards
Mark

To see more of Brendan's Mushulu 12 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Mushulu 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

RICHARDS MUSHULU 12

Hi Mark,

just about done on the runabout. I've just preped to spray inside, outsides done then just the gunwhale strips. I've attached a couple of photo's ......I think the colour should stand out - what do you reckon?

I'm also looking to buy a new 15hp to replace the 8 that I've already got, but for now the launching will use the 8 anyway. What do you need as evidence for the builders plate- video or stills?

Regards
Richard

G'day Richard,
I just need a couple of construction pictures, particularly of the foam inside the boat as you've provided previously. When finished ready for launching, just a couple of photo's showing that the boat is pretty much as per the plans.

The reason I ask for this is that the capacity of the boat, of which everything else is based on, is based on the boat as per the plan. Any major changes and it effects the capacity. In other words major changes will reduce the capacity and then the number of people and other factors as well, thereby changing the numbers for the ABP.

Looking forward to hearing of your launch day !!

Hope this helps
Mark

To see more of Richards Mushulu 12 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Mushulu 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

DAVID'S MUSHULU 12

G’day Mark.

Yep, I’ve made a little progress. Next year is looking more likely for completion ‘though, I may never get the cars back in the garage!

I went for wooden running strakes but hollowed them out a bit to save weight. My plan is to roll her over and complete the inside and topsides before painting the exterior.

regards
David

She's looking great David. Seems like only yesterday when you started. At the rate your building, it won't be long and you'll be launching her !!!

Looking forward to seeing the next lot of build photo's now

To see more of David's Mushulu 12 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Mushulu 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

ROSS'S SANDY STRAIT 14

During the past week , Ross sent in a series of his latest build pictures of his Sandy Strait 14.

To see more of Ross's Sandy Strait 14 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Sandy Strait 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

MARK'S MUSHULU 14

Dear Mark,
Have just finished the final coat on the boat, and have attached photos.
As I mentioned to you the other day, I put on two pairs of running strakes, and glued the plug as you described over the phone.

For the engine well cross pieces, which presumably stop racking of the transom by the motor I had to glue the verticals BELOW the horizontal, because the thwarts are of course not as high. It meant I couldn't use the side of the inner transom thickener for registration, but I clamped across the horizontal for each in turn, to hold it there while the epoxy set.

Photo's show the soles and aft and mid transom drain holes.

My other 'modification' is the extra base plate for the rowlock brackets, for extra thickness to put the screws through - three thicknesses of marine ply epoxied to each other and the topside.

Finally, shots of the boat overall and the anchor hatch. This weekend, my daughter will oil the rubbing strake with several coats of Cetol HLS teak, which should give a nice contrast with the white. That will be easier to maintain each year than gloss.

Have bought the blank ABP from the metal sign people in Brisbane - so now I need the fill in details please.

Will send shots of the boat on the trailer, and in the water, in a while.

Regards,
Mark

G'day Mark,

very nice ! I see your going for "pedestal seats" That will make for a nice boat whilst out fishing. Looking forward to seeing it out on the water and on our "latest Launching's" webpage as well

In regards to the ABP, here's the numbers:
Best regards

To see more of Mark's Mushulu 14 Build, please click here
For more information about the Mushulu 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

ALAN'S MAGNUM 12

Mark,
Please see attached two photos of current progress.
All the sole is glued down and all the tabbing completed.
The first coat of epoxy is complete on the sole as well.
The seat tops are glued in, but not tabbed yet.
The twisting flexibility that was in the hull has now gone. It feels strong.

In the photos you may notice a 100mm square piece of ply glued to the inside of the starboard gunwale. This is a doubling piece for the attachment of the echo-sounder. I am yet to do the rowlock blocks, which will be inside the gunwale about 300mm aft of the rear edge of the front seat.

Regards,
Alan.

To see more of Alan's Magnum 12 Build, please click here
For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

OUR BOATBUILDER CONNECTION.

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!

So, why not join Our Boatbuilder Connection, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 47 - Nov - 2011)

2011-11-30T09:31:00.000+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS

What a crazy hectic week. With so many enquiries regarding our designs, it’s actually amazing how much time one spends on the phone talking boats. This week has been full bore with the Pro Tournament 21, the smaller sister ship to the 24. I’m presently working on the first stage of the plans so Dean can get started ASAP. So keep watching this space as Dean begins sending in his build pictures.

Also out of interest, I just received an email from Marine Business World where one of the topics was of a new alloy punt design from XYZ company, that is about to be released. Crikey, it looks almost exactly the same as the Tropic 14 (except for the seating style), even right down to the increased deadrise as per the Tropic 14.

Heres a couple of pictures, as a comparison.

Also, we’ve been getting a lot of enquires and questions relating to boat design, powering and other related subjects. So, we’re looking at bringing out a series of articles in this regard in the near future.

Anyway, I hope you have a good one and…

HAVEAGREATWEEKEND

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

This weeks "World on Water" features the start of the America's Cup from San Diego, Puma's dismasting in the Volvo Ocean Race, the finish of the Jacques Vabre in Costa Rica, the final RC44 World Championships in Lanzarote, "Fresh to Frightening" with high speed action of the Honda Formula 4-Stroke Powerboats and much more!

If you like fast paced action and all of the latest news from the water then check out World On Water HERE now.

LATEST NEW DESIGN - THE PRO TOURNAMENT 21

Like her larger sister the Pro Tournament 24, the Pro tournament 21 has but one reason to exist: to help you catch the kind of fish that win tournaments - plain and simple.

Powered by a single outboard, the Pro Tournament 21 is untouchable in the open water, and yet the 21 will really prove itself when conditions deteriorate. With a standard 180 litre (48.24 US Gallons) fuel tank capacity, 24 degree deadrise at the transom and flared bows, the Pro Tournament 21 will get you there faster, drier, and smoother than the rest.

Other features also include a livewell, enormous total fish box capacity, walk through transom, recessed grab rails and a huge cockpit area for where all the action is on your offshore fishing rampages.

So to experience the ultimate in offshore sport fishing performance, experience the Pro Tournament 21....

... A Diamond in the Rough

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

HAMISH AND SAM'S MUSHULU 12

Hey Mark,
Hope your well up there with the warm weather!

Been soooooo long getting back to you! Sorry about that mate. Been pretty busy with University exams and the like. Anyway Sam and Myself have been working pretty hard on the boat. It is coming along well now. Attached some pictures for you.

Also was wondering if it was ok to run a long shaft engine? I notice the plans are set up for a short shaft.

Thanks again mate,
Hamish and Sam.

G'day Hamish and Dam,

Glad to see and hear of your boat build. Looks great !

In regards to having a long leg on board, not a problem. Simply measure along the transom centreline from the keel upwards 521 mm to the outboard clamping positon, draw a horizontal line and cut out. This will suit a long leg or 20 " leg. The max Hp under the Australian Builders Plate for the Mushulu 12 is 20 Hp.

Hope this helps

Looking forward to see the next lot of pictures !! Won't be long now and you'll be launching as well !!

regards
Mark

To see more of Hamish and Sam's Mushulu 12 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Mushulu 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

ALAN'S MAGNUM 12

Mark,

The floatation foam is cut to size. See attached photos.
Down the centre I have used 75mm thick foam.
The other compartments are filled with a combination of 25mm and 15 mm thick sheet.
I have glued the sheet parts together to give a more solid block for each compartment.
When the glue dries, I plan to paint each block with plastic house paint to seal them against any petrol spills into the under floor space.
The vacant areas are below the inspection ports, so I can sponge out any under-sole water.
It will not be long before the sole is glued down.

After that, it is seat tops and planing strakes and painting.

I am starting to get excited.

At what stage do I ask you for the details for the Australian Builders Plate?

I think getting the ABP is the first step in the registration process. I think the sequence is ABP, then a HIN, then the rego.

I need to get a motor ordered too, as its details will go on the rego. I planned to get a 9.9hp Suzuki long shaft four stroke.
Regards,
Alan.

G'day Alan,
When the boat is finished mate.

In regards to the overall process, the first step is the ABP. Then you'll take your boat to the RTA (NSW) and they check over and measure the boat. Then they'll give you the "green slip plus the HIN number. Then you just walk into the rego branch and register the boat. Too easy.

Hope this helps
regards
Mark
To see more of Alan's Magnum 12 Build, please click HERE.
For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

OUR BOATBUILDER CONNECTION.

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!

So, why not join Our Boatbuilder Connection, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 46 - Nov - 2011)

2011-11-24T09:27:00.000+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS
G'day all,
Not really to much to say this week except work, work work. Working between two designs and going around the design spiral takes time, more than people realize as one finalizes all the small detail, to make the design as a whole work and balance.
As the week comes to a close, I've got yet another big day, designing, printing out plans to go in the mail worldwide. I was hoping to have a few more articles done, but unfortunately..ran out of time
So, we'll catch you next week, hope you have a good one and ...

HAVEAGREATWEEKEND

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

On the latest edition of "World on Water" we feature updates from Leg 1 of the Volvo Ocean Race, the winner of the America's Cup World Series San Diego "Port Cities Challenge", the Rolex Sailor of the year, action from the Transat Jacques Vabre Race, "Fresh to Frightening" with official footage of an RNLI rescue a 30 foot yacht on submerged rocks and much more!

For all the latest news and action from the world of boating remember to check out OUR WEBSITE.

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

KEN'S MUSHULU 14

Hi Mark,

just finished the first coat of Formarine Supergloss.

Only 2 or 3 to go and I'll flip her over and start the fitout. I'll keep you updated.

Cheers

Ken

To see more of Ken's Mushulu 14 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Mushulu 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

ALAN'S MAGNUM 12

Mark,
Please find attached some photos of the current state of progress. The work of finishing off the woodwork under the sole has been tedious. Because there are 27 pockets in the structure, every step has to be repeated 27 times.

In the past week I have put the transom knees in, added a couple of supports for the foredeck, and added all the cleats to support the sole. Today I have put the first coat of epoxy on the sole cleats and the underside of the sole panels. I expect to be cutting polystyrene before the end of this week.

The photos show some detail of the foredeck supports, and the rear sole area. The supports under the foredeck are in case some-one decides they need to sit on the foredeck. I chose to put two transom knees in instead of the one in the plans. This keeps the sump clear of obstruction, and also transfers engine loads more directly into the longitudinals. The transom feels very strong without any major structural section across the transom top.

I hope the photos show the limber holes in the aft end of the longitudinals. I expect to be able to sponge out any under-sole water through the screw out inspection ports. Above sole water will collect in the sump. I plan to put a screw-in drain plug in the transom to drain the sump.

I have also added backing plates for horn cleats in the foredeck and on the side just forward of the transom. All these cleats will be below the line of the gunwale.

Regards,
Alan.
To see more of Alan's Magnum 12 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

OUR BOATBUILDER CONNECTION.

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!
So, why not join Our Boatbuilder Connection, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

--------------------------------------------------

So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 45 - Nov - 2011)

2011-11-17T20:37:00.003+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS

G'day all,

Crikey, it's that time of the week already. Damn time flies !!
I was hoping to show the new design for Kelvin and Tony and their new 27 ft game boat design, but like all things when it comes to designing and following the design spiral, it does take time to nail the concept down so that it works, but also looks good. I did manage to draw up a few concept drawings, but after hanging them up on the wall to look at as one walks past, I wasn't really happy with the "look".

Although the hull itself has been finalized in regards to its hydrostatics/ seakeeping abilitys/ build ability and more, however it was back to the drawing board to sketch out out different concepts/ re-arrange lines here and there, whilst all them time keeping in mind the purpose of the design. (refer to the video above of the design in offshore conditions)
As a matter of interest, the programs we use for all our design work is Maxsurf (http://www.formsys.com/)

At the moment I feel that I may be on to a set of lines that I'm happy with to date, but in the end it's not up to me, but up to Kelvin and Tony. So hopefully....next week we'll have something to show.

Anyway, that's all from me this week, so have a good one &..

HAVEAGREATWEEKEND

LATEST WEBSITE UPDATES

For those of you that may have already noticed, but for those that haven't, we've now added some new features to our website, articles / fibreglass kits and more. So to see more of our new additions, please visit our website

LATEST NEW DESIGN

The Pro Tournament 24 has over the past week getting a great response. Overall, we've been getting a lot of emails and phonecalls about this new design and when will it be available. Well....the answer is soon.
In the meantime however, the first one to be built will be Dean from Port Stephens, who we hope to get him started over the next couple of weeks with the first partof the plans and full size templates.

So we look forward to seeing the ProTournament 24 under way and getting built very soon.

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S
Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

TONY'S CRUISE CONTROL 5.2

Hi Mark

I have send a few photos of the fuel tank and the front section of the cockpit sole.

Tony

"Great build so far Tony. Looking forward to seeing more of your build over the coming weeks/ months"

To see more of Tony's Cruise Control 5.2 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Cruise Control 5.2 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

ROSS'S SANDY STRAIT 14

We just recieved the first pictures of Ross's Sandy Strait 14. We look forward to seeing more of his build over the coming weeks.

To see more of Ross's Sandy Strait 14 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Sandy Strait 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

ALAN'S MAGNUM 12

Mark,

Attached are some photos of the progress to date.
I have completed the glassing of the inside of the hull and up the sides of the longitudinals and bulkheads.
That was one long sticky job which took a few days.

I have cut out the sole pieces and the foredeck.
The pictures show them lying loose in the boat.

I am now into yet more sanding, before gluing the cleats to the tops of the longitudinals etc to accept the sole.

I stood in the boat with the sole loose this morning, and nothing moved. It felt strong.

I am not looking forward to cutting the floatation foam to size. I reckon that is going to make quite a mess.

Regards,
Alan.

To see more of Alan's Magnum 12 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

OUR BOATBUILDER CONNECTION.

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!
So, why not join Our Boatbuilder Connection, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

--------------------------------------------------

So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 44 - Nov - 2011)

2011-11-10T05:49:00.002+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S LATEST WEEKLY NEWS

What a week ! My head is still swirling with all the info I got whilst visiting Kelvin and Tony down at Sydney. With my notebook full of notes and diagrams, I still find that whilst designing over the past week, small details jog my memory about things that I didn't write down at the time.

So, over the past week, I've been working between two new designs, the Pro Tournament 24 and 27. I managed to make a lot of headway with the 24 ft version, but unfortunatly ran out of time to post the 27 ft version here this week. Anyway...there's always next week.

Also, Debbie and I managed to get out into the shed, to load up our RipTide XR457 onto the trailer. This now means we can get paint her and... it also free's up the strongback for another build project. Crikey, what do we build next ???

It was also good see see so many build pictures come through this week. This is something that I really look forward to receiving, watching the boats all come together in various stages of building. Some of the boats are coming together pretty quick, which is good to see, as some are first time builders. So it won't be long and we'll be having another "Launching"

Anyway, I hope we all had a great week and we'll catch you next time. So, have a good one and HAVAGREATWEEKEND !

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

This week's action packed "World on Water" features the Clipper Race Leg 4 Finish Geraldton, Australia, Transat Jacques Vabre non-start and the Transat 6.50 finish in Brazil, Student Yachting World Cup, Rolex Middle Sea Race Malta, Gosford-Lord Howe Island Race, "Fresh to Frightening" featuring wild action in last year's Cork Week when high winds hit the racing fleet and much more!

This is a truly action packed episode with all of the sailing news you will ever need. Check it out HERE now.

LATEST NEW DESIGN COMING
The Pro Tournament 24

After coming back from Sydney and visiting the boy's down there, I've been working on two new designs at the same time. These two new designs (yes there will be more) based on the experience and setup based on Kelvins and Tony's experience game fishing.

The design shown to the right is the Pro Tournament 24 to be built by Dean from Port Stephens.

Featuring 25 degrees deadrise for offshore fishing, bait and kill tanks, 300 litres of fuel carrying capacity for long range offshore fishing, on board toilet facilities and loads more features, click here to see more of the Pro Tournament 24 !

We hope this time next week we'll be able to show the next version, but with a cabin and 27 ft long.

If you have any questions or queries about these two new designs,
please feel free to CONTACT US

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

SAM'S SANDY STRAIT 14

We've just recieved a few more photo's of Sams Sandy Sytrait build. He sent in so many, that we couldn't put them all up here. However, if you visit our boatbuilding form, you'll see more of his build and comments as well. (refer below for the link)

To see more of Sam's Sandy Strait 14 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Sandy Strait 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

STEVE'S MUSHULU 12

Hi Mark,
Thanks for sending the extra sheet detailing the floors and sole.
Here’s a photo of where I’m at with the boat so far.

Regards
Steve

To see more of Steve's Mushulu 12 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Mushulu 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

ALAN'S MAGNUM 12

Mark,

Attached are a couple of photos showing the current state of play.
I am part way through fibre-glassing the inside of the hull bottom.

This under floor structure is tedious.
I have also been given some polystyrene foam sheets to use as buoyancy.
Regards,
Alan.

To see more of Alan's Magnum 12 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

DAVID'S MUSHULU 12

Hi Mark – I got this far last week, but have had other things happening, and as we are heading off in the ‘van for a week or two, no progress is likely soon, eh?

Thanks for the sole and floor plans, and your advice that only the outside running strakes are necessary if I put the soles in.

Catch up later
David

To see more of David's Mushulu 12 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Mushulu 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

OUR BOATBUILDER CONNECTION.

This is our boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!
So, why not join Our Boatbuilder Connection, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 43 - Oct - 2011)

2011-11-02T21:35:00.002+10:00

WELCOME TO BMD'S WEEKLY NEWS

What a hectic past 2 weeks. !! After just getting back from Bribane last week (as you'll note from last weeks blog) I was home only for 3 days, then I was off again to Sydney to visit Kelvin and Tony about their new 27ft game fishing boat we've been commissioned to design. Meeting Kevin at the airport, it was back to his place to meet his family and shortly thereafter, Tony arrived.
Naturally we talked boats/ plans (Tony's an Architect)and everything nautical then next day at 5am we were off ...fishing. Working our way out through Sydney's magic harbour then out through the heads, we headed offshore to chase a few kingies. One of the aspects of me coming down was to get a feel for what they do and where they go, experiencing the sea conditions of where they operate and fish and also to see the pro's and con's about their boats.

At around 2pm it was time to head back and time to spend looking over their boats, discussing the good, bad and the ugly's, taking heaps of photo's and measurements for what they wanted in their next boat. During all this, even more of their mates turned up. One of them was Micky (G'day mate) who's an outboard mechanic, so you can imagine we talked outboards/ outboards and more outboards. ha ha

The next day we then went out again, only this time in Tony's boat. First we hunted around the inner heads, chasing squid for a bit of live bait, then it was time to head out again outside. The weather forecast was for 25-30 kts with rain, but it turned out absolutely magic weather. Working our way up and down the coastline, we decided to chase a few kingies within the harbour for something different! (can't say where..sworn to secrecy)

During the whole time down there, I got to met a few more of their mates, naturally there all fisherman of some sort, so you can guess what we talked about.
Finally it was time for me to head for the airport and fly home, only to get caught in a thunderstorm at the Brisbane airport we they wouldn't let us off the plane for 1-1/2 hours, in case we got struck by lightning. The whole airport was shut down !!. This left my son who was waiting for me there, twiddling his thumbs and there was nothing we could do about it. Finally we got back to their place at 12:30am and I crashed into bed. The next day it was time to head back home to Bundy and ....go to work. Overall, I had a great time down there, so thanks to all particularly to Kelvin & Tony.

So at present, with that many designs on the go, you can imagine what will begin to make it's way into our dew designs ! Also, I'm now having to get Debbie to start drawing as well, so I can catch up.

So whilst writing this, I'm printing out plans bound for all parts of the globe, including a set of Mushulu 14 plans bound for Tahiti ! (That's a first for the Mushulu 14). Also, we've just sold our first set of Edge Tracker 426 plans to Pat in Brisbane, so we look forward to seeing his build progress pictures very soon.

Anyway, that's all for this week.
So have a good one &..
HAVEAGREATWEEKEND!
Regards
Mark & Debs

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

In the latest action packed edition of 'World On Water' we feature the Vestas Sailrocket 2 in Namibia for World Speed Record Attempt, 2011 UIM Class One Italy Championships, 2011 Student Yachting World Cup, 2011 Transat Jacques Vabre, "Fresh to Frightening" which pays tribute to the Volvo Ocean Race crews who drive their Volvo Open 70 yachts at warp speeds, and much more!

Exciting stuff this week, so don't miss is out on this weeks latest action. Click HERE

FISHING & BOATING REPORTS

Hope everyone is enjoying the spring weather. It is traditionally time for some big kings off our part of the world. I have been busy chasing some of these hoodlum size fish we have at the moment.

Ever since the abolition of the kingfish traps, they have grown in both number and size. In the last month I have been busted off on almost every trip by some unstoppable fish. I only use 100lb + braid and this is still not enough at times. With kings it is the fish that you lose which makes you come back!

This is Tony with a kingie. It measured around 120cm

This is me with a 106cm king. Looks like a baby compared to some of the other fish we have been getting but still a good fish. The mouth shows how much drag we are using on these fish. I normally set my jigging master at 15kg at strike and up to 20kg at full...fully measured on scales. Even a "small" fish like this one will pull drag at this setting.

This is Mason with a kingie which went 117cm. A fat well conditioned fish.

Just hope the kings grow bigger and meaner in the future...long live the king!!.

Regards Kelvin

If you have any fishing stories you'd like to share, why not send them in !
We'd love to hear of them. !!!

OUR BOATBUILDER CONNECTION.

This is our new boat building community & knowledge center! You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!

So, why not join Our Boatbuilder Connection, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

David's Mushulu 12

Hi Mark, Yes – I’m still going. This is just to encourage you that I haven’t given up!

Apart from taking a couple of weeks holiday, Things really slowed down when I started using BoteCote to clear finish the exteriors of the seats and foredeck, as I could only do 1 face per day (I decided to epoxy each face in the horizontal position to stop runs) and.... it was also taking 2-3 days before I could sand between coats. So – 2 coats of BoteCote and 3 coats of AquaCote later, I fitted the internals in and filleted them up as far as arms could reach to at this point - I’ll finish them at the fairing stage.

You were right Mark. The BoteCote certainly takes a lot longer to cure. When using the fast hardener (it’s the one with the non yellowing formula) it also is much slower to apply than FGI, and tends to be a thicker coat – hence the tendency to run.

Before I filleted, the seats and deck were masked up so that the edges could be sanded, and the fillet epoxy kept off the AquaCote. That worked well...... until the tape AND sections of AquaCote were removed! “ @#&^%$#@”. I suspect that the epoxy leached under the sanded edges of the AquaCote in places and released the bond!!

Oh well, I’ll sand and redo the finish later. By the way, I forgot to take photos of the Styrofoam buoyancy infill and of the fitted interior before a passing friend helped me to roll the boat over. Please let me know if you want me to destroy the boat to prove buoyancy.

That’s about it Mark. I’ll try and finish the exterior hull in the next week or so, and send you more pictures .

regards
David

To see more of David's Mushulu 12 Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Mushulu 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Sam's Sandy Strait 14

Hi Mark, Just saw the Edge Tracker design - very nice, I'd be keen on plans for the 18 footer later on ! If only they were available 18 months ago

Finally I've done a bit more on my boat. The last 6 weeks or so I just haven't been able to get a decent go at it. I won't do glassing unless I'm sure I'm not going to be interrupted....

Here’s a few pics for everyone.

Regards
Sam

To see more of Sam's Sandy Strait 14 Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Sandy Strait 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

If your building one of our designs or have any questions or queries, why not join our Boatbuilders Connection !
--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 42 - Oct - 2011)

2011-10-25T18:12:00.001+10:00

WELCOME TO WEEKLY NEWS FROM BMD

What another exciting, yet hectic week here at BMD. I had a bit of work to do down at Brisbane, so whilst down there, Debbie and I baby-sitted our grandson for 5 days. Crikey, do they grow up fast !

While down that way, I decided to duck up to Esk for a day and visit a friend of mine, Ross Lillistone from Bayside Wooden boats. Crikey, Ross and I can talk boats for hours, showing me around his workshop with his new boats he’s building and his latest new traditional sailing design which is soon to come out. Overall, it was a great day with him.

I then ducked out to Rhule Trailers (Brisbane) to pick up our boat trailer for our new RipTide XR457. Crikey, what a trailer! Strong as and easy to tow. Prior to ordering our trailer through him, I poked around traps looking for a trailer and overall, I wasn’t really impressed with what I found. Especially when it comes to the prices they want.

Talking with Paul Archer from Rhule trailers, Paul mentioned that if any of our clients are looking for a boat trailer, to mention BMD’s name and he’ll offer you a great discount.

Personally, I saved $100's of dollars when comparing with everyone else and ended up with top boat trailer, as seen to the right. Excellent value !

To contact Paul Archer from Rhule Trailers,
Trailer accessories Wholesale.
Ph: (07) 3216 7700. Unit 2/1776 Ipswich Rd (Cnr Randolph st) Rocklea
Email: tawp@bigpond.com

Here are a few pictures of the trailer. As you can see, it even splits as well for easy loading/ unloading your boat !!

So some time next week, we'll be loading our RipTide XR457 onto the trailer, freeing up the strongback for yet, another build. (Just have to figure out what to build next ????? ha ha )

Too many Choices !!

After arriving home late Saturday night, I couldn’t believe the emails…”you have 190 messages” Crikey, checking the answering machine; it was chock a block with messages as well. It took me that night and ½ the next day to go through it all, answering questions and queries about out designs. There were even emails and phone calls from people asking “what’s going on with our blog, as I hadn’t put anything up” It’s nice to know that people do read all our latest news !

Anyway, better get off here as I’ve got heaps to do before I fly down to Sydney later this week for a couple of days, visiting the boys down there in regards to their 27 ft game boat they’ve asked us to design. So watch this space next week to see all the latest action we get up to and hopefully ..we’ll hook up a couple of big one’s as well, when we head out fishing. !!!

So you have a good one &

HAVEAGREATWEEKEND !

Regards Mark & Debs

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

In the latest edition of "World on Water" we feature Act 8 of the Extreme Sailing Series Almeria, the R. Watt Memorial Trophy Sydney, the Monaco Yacht Show Port Hercule, Monaco, the Clipper Race Leg 4 Start, the UNO Farr 40 European Championships, the opening of the Volvo Ocean Race Village Alicante, "Fresh to Frightening" featuring a capsize in the 2008-09 Vendee Globe and much more!

Remember to check back every week HERE for all of the latest news and action from around the world of boating.

THE MUSHULU 12 TURNS 51

Since we first brought out the Mushulu 12 three years ago, we've now sold 51 sets of plans worldwide, Australia, Brazil, Europe, USA, NZ, South Africa and even into Russia.

Overall, including the one's that we built prior to the launching of the plans, the Mushulu 12 is actually 67 ! So we look forward to when the Mushulu 12 reaches 100 !!

See to more of the Mushulu 12 design,
please click HERE

OUR BOATBUILDER CONNECTION.

This is our new boat building community & knowledge center!
You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!

So, why not join Our Boatbuilder Connection, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

LATEST NEW DESIGN
The Deep "V" Offshore Edge Tracker Deep 426

The Edge Tracker 426 offshore Deep "V"

The new EDGE TRACKER 426, a plywood stitch and tape boat, is designed exclusively for the offshore angler or the passionate fisherman.

She's small, but when it comes to taking the waves head-on, she packs a mighty punch. Big boat attitude in a small easy package easily describes the Edge Tracker 426 in perfect detail. We've taken the same high-tech boat building techniques used for the rest of our designs and incorporated them here, including the wave busting 17 º hull design that makes for such a such a great ride.

Pedastal seat arrangement

With it's sleek yet simple lines, tillered steered, large deck casting area, handy storage compartments, pedastal seating and a full transom with a boarding step are just a few of the standard features that will be offered in these models. With a deadrise at the transom of 17 degrees, the EDGE TRACKER 426 offers a smooth ride in offshore or rough/white water conditions.

Optional Bench seat arrangement

The plans even provide optional bench seats if required.

( refer image to the left for a comparison)

17 degree deadrise at the transom with chine flats

On the plane, the large chine flats on the hulls deflect water down and under the hull, acting as two points on which it balances.

These points provide a great deal of dynamic stability for a more solid ride while also increasing lift and reducing drag for a faster more efficient running hull. (see our "Liquid Engineering" webpage)

So if you live and fish in an area where it means heading out into a large open choppy bay or even heading offshore, .....
the EDGE TRACKER 426 is the boat for you.

Click HERE to see more of this design.

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S
Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

Alan's Magnum 12

Mark,

I have completed the initial internal fibre-glassing,(yet to be sanded).

As mentioned earlier, I have decided to do one layer all over the inside with en extra layer along the joints in the panels. The attached photos show the glass down to just below the sole in the front and just below the chine in the back.

The hull below the sole will be covered when I glass in the longitudinals and bulkheads. The bulkheads are cut and dry fitted. I decided to make the seats 325mm (about 13 inches) above the sole.

Now I have to get back to sanding the inside ready to glue the internals to the hull.

Regards.
Alan.
To see more of Alan's Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Richard's Mushulu 12

Hi Mark,

Just some shots to show progress on my Mushulu 12,
regards
Richard

The Mushulu 12 is a simple open plan design, with the priority being for easy planing at low speeds, great stability whilst at rest.

The interior itself is clean and simple, with a loads of room and storage. Emphasis was given to having higher than normal sides and comfortable seating arangements, without having your knees in your face. Within the seats there are 2 large sealed lockers, for all those items you may want locked away, while still retaining the foam filled buoyancy compartments in the outer seat sections, as required to comply with the standards. The bow seat also doubles as an anchor locker.

Overall, the design had to be kept simple, clean and functionable, for a great days fishing or simply out and about with the family.

To see more of Richard's Build, please click HERE
For more information about the Mushulu 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

If your building one of our designs or have any questions or queries, why not join our Boatbuilders Connection !
--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 40 - Oct - 2011)

2011-10-13T18:02:00.003+10:00

WELCOME TO WEEKLY NEWS FROM BMD
What another exciting week here at BMD.

Not only do we have a 27 ft game boat to design for Kelvin from Sydney, but now also a 21 ft Game boat for Dean from Port Stephens and a 23 ft offshore Cab Game boat for Nigel and his wife ( a Bait and Tackle store owner in Brisbane). So things are looking pretty exciting over the next few months.

Also, talking with Kelvin and Tony over the past week, well at the end of this month I'm off to Sydney for a few days game fishing. After a few days of talking on the phone, Kelvin asked what days would I be free over the next coming months (they gave a few dates) and next thing I knew, an email arrived with a return plane ticket to come down.

Talking on the phone, they reckoned that overall, it would be easier for me to come down, show what they want in a design, then take me out for a few days fishing to get a "real feel" of what goes on. Excellent idea.
So we're looking forward to heading down to Sydney!
Anyway, thats all from me for this week, so have a good one and ...
HAVAGREATWEEKEND !!

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

The latest edition of "World On Water" features the 2011-12 Volvo Race preliminaries Alicante, Panerai Regates Royales Cannes, 2011 Chicago Match Cup Grade 1 Finals, 2011-12 Clipper Race Leg 3, Cape Town Finish, "Fresh to Frightening" featuring the near catastrophe in the 2008 Honda Formula 4-Stroke Powerboat's Steam Packet G.P. and much more!
Don't miss out on your weekly fix of Sailing/ Power news and action. Check out World On Water now to keep up to date.

Our NEW BOATBUILDER CONNECTION.

This is our new boat building community & knowledge center!

You'll find answers to your questions, descriptions of the boatbuilding methods used to build our designs, new friends and everything from A-Z on your project!

So, why not join Our Boatbuilder Connection, become a member and have fun making new friends along the way!

LATEST NEW DESIGNS - The Edge Tracker Series

The EdgeTracker 426 (14ft)

The EDGE TRACKER SERIES (plywood stitch and tape ) is designed exclusively for the offshore angler or the passionate fisherman.

With their sleek yet simple lines, tillered steered, large deck casting area, handy storage compartments, pedastal seating and a full transom with a boarding step are just a few of the standard features that will be offered in these models. Also with a deadrise at the transom from 17 to 20 degrees, the EDGE TRACKER SERIES offers a smooth ride in offshore or rough/white water conditions

The Edge Tracker 487 (16ft)

On the plane, the large chine flats on the hulls deflect water down and under the hull, acting as two points on which it balances. These points provide a great deal of dynamic stability for a more solid ride while also increasing lift and reducing drag for a faster more efficient running hull. (see our "Liquid Engineering" webpage)

The Edge Tracker 548 (18ft)

So if you live and fish in an area where it means heading out into a large open choppy bay or even heading offshore, .....the EDGE TRACKER series is the boat for you.

The EDGE TRACKER SERIES ................ yet another addition to BMD's offshore Range.

To see more of the EDGE TRACKER series, please click HERE.

At the time of writing this blog, the EDGE TRACKER 426 plans are 60% finished and will be available shortly !

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S
Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

Alan's Magnum 12
Mark,

Yesterday I finished gluing on the external gunwale timbers, and then rolled the boat right way up.

Now have to clean up the inside ready for fibre-glassing.
Regards,
Alan.

It's great to see this car-topper coming together.! It's one thing to see it as a 3-D model on my screen when designing, but to see it all come together as per the model, it's pretty exciting.
Looking forward to seeing the next lot of pictures!

To see more of Alan's Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Ken's Mushulu 14

It's been a while since I've heard from Ken and his Mushulu 14. Then I got a phone call from him this morning, along with a few pictures, telling me what's been going on.

Turns out it's been that cold where he lives that he had to put everything on hold for a while ! Now however, things are starting to warm up, he's now back out in his shed building again.
So we look forward to hearing from him again aon a more regular basis, watching his Mushulu 14 come together !

To see more of Ken's Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Mushulu 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

If your building one of our designs or have any questions or queries, why not join our Boatbuilders Connection !
--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 39 - Oct - 2011)

2011-10-05T22:15:00.002+10:00

WELCOME TO WEEKLY NEWS FROM BMD
G'day all,

The RipTide XR457

One thing I'm learning about this job..Every week brings new surprises. We had a phone call this week from a prospective builder who was asking about bringing out the RipTide XR457 as a production fibreglass version. We also had an enquiry from the US, asking about designing a series of power boat designs to go into production as well. So as time progresses and fingers crossed, we hope this all comes together.

We're also booked to head to Sydney soon for a weekend to go Game fishing and to talk with the boys down there about their new 27 ft offshore game boat design. It's going to be very interesting to see how these fellas do things down there !!

Ruhle Boat Trailers

We managed to get a bit more done on our RipTide XR457 this week, (see below). I've also managed to get a deal for all our boatbuilders out there in regards to Boat trailers. Talking with Phil (who built the RipTide CX457) about his traler, I contacted Paul Archer from Ruhle Trailers and after a great discussion, all our boatbuilders will get a special deal if they mention that they're building one of our designs. So if your looking for a boat trailer, you can contact Paul at (Ph) 07 3216 7700

The Gulf Explorer 16

We've also have a couple of Gulf Explorer 16's now under construction, so we look forward to bringing you build updates on this new design.

Anyway, we look forward to working with our clients in regards to their new projects, so keep watching our website as we bring you the latest updates on these new designs... and others as well shortly.

Anyway, thats all from me for this week, so have a good one and ...
HAVAGREATWEEKEND !!
LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

In the latest edition of "World on Water" we feature Act 6 of the Extreme Sailing Series in Trapani, the 22nd Trophee Clairefontaine of French Sailing Champions La Grande Motte, Audi MedCup Soto 40 Barcelona, our "Fresh to Frightening" action segment from the Invitational Chicago Match Race Centre in heavy winds and much more!

So don't miss out on the action and check out this episode of "World On Water" HERE

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S
Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them
David's Mushulu 12

Hi Mark,

Yes, I have started and am in the process of making up the thwarts.

I have sent you a photo of the step not shown by anyone else (as far as I know) – how to lay the centre fillet if you are a shorty like me!

I’ll keep you informed.
Regards
David

To see more of David's Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Mushulu 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Alan's Magnum 12
Mark,

I had a big day yesterday when I put the glass on the outside of the hull.

The light coloured areas are where I have done some fairing before glassing.

Tomorrow is back to sanding. Then more fairing.

Regards,

Alan.

To see more of Alan's Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Mark's RipTide XR457

G'day all,

We spent a bit of time this week fixing down the sole, in the cockpit and storage compartments and then pouring in the buoyancy foam in their respective compartments beneath the sole.

We then glassed the sole down and have finally begun to make up the console.

We've also ordered the pedestal seats and also our boat trailer, which we'll pick up in the next couple of weeks.

Have a good one !
regards
Mark

To see more of Mark's Build, please click HERE

For more information about the RipTide XR457 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

If your building one of our designs or have any questions or queries, why not join our Forum.
--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 38 - Sept - 2011)

2011-09-29T21:42:00.003+10:00

WELCOME TO WEEKLY NEWS FROM BMD

It's been an interesting week here ! Juggling designs and trying to make headway with our Riptide XR457, if only there was 38 hours in a day instead of 36. We're now into designing Kelvins 27ft Centre console.
He writes:

Kelvin

Hi Mark,
I hope you are having fun with our boat design.
I have a few photos to send you. The photo you have on your blog is that of my mate Tony who is 50% of this project. I thought I might send you a couple of photos of me this time so you get an idea of the person who you are talking to at the end of a telephone.

By the way, my fishing trip yesterday was pretty good as my wife asked me to catch a few fish for the table during the school holidays. She wanted to make some sushi and sashimi for her friends and my children's friends. She asked me to catch a few squid and some kingfish. Fortunately I was able to get 4 squid and 3 kings before lunch and thus my honour was saved!

Tony

Then we have game fishing that we indulge in the summer months. We fish mainly for marlin and our chief areas are Port Stephens, Sydney and jervis bay. Port Stephens is a great marlin fishery with double digit strikes being not uncommon. However, it is a very long way out to the grounds especially now that there are marine parks everywhere. Jervis Bay is a great fishery as well and the advantage there is that the grounds are fairly close. Sydney is our home waters and when in season we get all the marlin species with the BLue marlin being the largest.

Earlier this year we had a fantastic blue marlin season and we got one almost everytime we went fishing for them during feb-march. Often we had multiple strikes and hook ups on blues out of Sydney. We got spooled now twice on 80lb gear on blue marlin in the last 3 years and every time we hook one it is a fantastic sight. Most Blue marlin we encunter off Sydney are 300-700lb with some granders thrown in from time to time. My mate got the Sydney Game fishing club record a couple of years back with a fish around 900lbs. However , we have seen and hooked fish much bigger than this but haven't been able to land them. We are seriously thinking of upping to 130lb but this type of tackle can't be used standing up!

For these blues we use lures or better still a big striped tuna. I don't know if you get a lot of blue marlin up your way but that run from a blue marlin chills your blood. I can feel the adrenalin rush just writing about it. We find them patrolling the continental slope around 25 mile out from Sydney heads. I am hoping we will get a good run of them again this coming year.

Kelvins Son Michael

The striped and black marlin are far tamer fish and we get black marlin in very close. At times they come inside the harbour itself. Most blacks we encounter are small fish with most being less than 400lb. We did get a 500lb fish this summer but that is rather expectional than standard.

Striped marlin are even tamer and are actually fun for our kids to catch. They provide a good fight but nothing special like the blues. They are notoriously difficult to hook up on lures so we use baits or when conditions allow, we use teasers to switch bait. I used to exclusively switch bait for many years but got sick of seeing my hookless lures and teasers get ripped off by yellowfin tuna,, dollies..etc. Now days I use live baits, skipping baits or swimming baits for all marlin fishing. Every now and then I switch bait normally to show someone new to this technique or when fly fishing.

Kelvin

Cheers Kelvin

p.s. I might send you a few more photos so that you get an idea of the type of fishing I do 2-3 times a week.
------------------------------
What a hard Life !!!!
This will be a design that I'm going to enjoy watching getting built... and see in ACTION !!!

We look forward to working with our clients in regards to their new projects, so keep watching our website as we bring you the latest updates on these new designs... and others as well shortly.

Anyway, thats all from me for this week, so have a good one and ...
HAVAGREATWEEKEND !!

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

In the latest edition of "World on Water" we feature the bi-annual New York Yacht Club Invitational Cup in Newport R.I. USA, the finals of the America's Cup World Series from Plymouth, the ISAF Nations Cup in Sheboygan USA, the final Audi MedCup Regatta in Barcelona, Spain, RS:X European Windsurfing Championships in Burgas, "Fresh to Frightening" featuring Team Russia Volvo Open 70 wiping out and rolling over and much more!

Don't miss out on the best action show on the web. Click here to check it out now.

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S
Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

Tony's Cruise Control 5.2

It was great to hear from Tony again, building his Cruise Control 5.2.
He writes:

Hi Mark,

Progress is slow but steady. Sending a couple of photos of the anchor well and cabin floor.

Wish I had more time on the weekends to do work but we will get there.

Talk to you soon.
Regards

Tony and Karen

To see more of Tony's Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Cruise Control 5.2 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Mark's RipTide XR457

With so many things happening at once, we finally managed to finish the bulkheads and longitudinals, gluing cleats around the tops to land the sole on and cut and fit the sole with storage hatches.

Over the next week we hope to have it all glued in and glassed, ready to begin making up the console itself.

regards
Mark

BMD Latest News (Week 37 - Sept - 2011)

2011-09-22T19:40:00.012+10:00

WELCOME TO WEEKLY NEWS FROM BMD

Tony from Sydney

What a week !
In between working on our RipTide XR457, doing a bit of work for Seajay Boats and also since the launch of Graham's SportzMaster 19, our phone has been running hot for enquires for new offshore fishing and cruising designs.

So with three contracts signed and 1 pending, we're now bringing out:

1/ Working with Tommy Ericsson (General Manager of Aluminium Boats Australia) we're working on a new 31 ft Aluminium centre console for a Hong Kong client to go into production

2/ A 27 ft Strip Plank composite Carolina style Centre Console for Kelvin from Sydney, a member of the game fishing Association, where they chase Marlin and the like up to 40nm offshore. Kelvin has owned pretty close to a dozen boats, from Contenders, Seaswirls and with a 40ft Riviera being the largest.

So we look forward to working with him in designing his custom game fishing boat.

3/ A 24 ft Strip Plank composite Carolina style offshore cruising design for Charlie- Tasmania. (pending - Custom Production)

4/ A 16 ft plywood offshore design similiar in nature to the RipTide CX457.

We look forward to working with our clients in regards to these new projects, so keep watching our website as we bring you the latest updates on these new designs... and others as well shortly.
Anyway, thats all from me for this week, so have a good one and ...
HAVAGREATWEEKEND !!

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

In this week's "World on Water" we feature the 2011 Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup YCCS Porto Cervo, action from the America's Cup World Series Plymouth, Clipper Round the World Race Leg 3, 32nd Annual Museum of Yachting Panerai Classic Regatta from Newport Rhode Island, our action segment "Fresh to Frightening" where 2 New Zealand trawlers battling huge waves and much more!

In this episode of "Fresh to Frightening" we feature truly frightening footage as we look at two New Zealand Trawlers in huge waves with big troughs and gigantic following seas crossing a bar to return to port. All they need is to get side on the waves and it's curtains for them. It's heart stopping footage, so turn the sound up and enjoy!

You won't want to miss this week's show...it's one of our best yet! Check it out here here. We always feature the top action from around the world of boating every week so remember to keep checking back every week for new episodes!

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

Alan's Magnum 12
It was great to hear from Alan again, building his Magnum 12.
He writes:

Mark,

I finished the initial gluing enough to hold the shape together with the cable ties removed.
The hull feels really light. I could not resist the temptation to feel the weight, so I took it off the jig.

The attached photo shows I can easily lift the hull shell.

No strings or trick photography.

Regards,
Alan.

Crikey, reminds me of a photo I saw a while back of a fella lifting a small canoe and here we have Allan lifting not a canoe, but a real power boat !! Now that's light !!

To see more of Alan's Build, please click HERE

For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Mark's RipTide XR457

I managed to get back out into our shed again to do a bit more to our boat. All the bulkheads/ floors / longitudinals and the engine well vertical knees are now tabbed in and the glass edges feathered off.

I'm now just making up all the bulkhead/ longitudinal cleats to glue the sole down on and about to cut out the shape of the sole from the plans for fitting.

We also just bought the steering kit for the boat, running it around the topsides just under the side deck where it will be hidden for a test run. We hope to have more for you next week !

To see more of Mark's Build, please click HERE

For more information about the RipTide XR457 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

If your building one of our designs or have any questions or queries,
why not join our Forum.
--------------------------------------------------
So, see you next time with our latest news !

Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest News (Week 36 - Sept - 2011)

2011-09-14T20:03:00.005+10:00

WELCOME TO WEEKLY NEWS FROM BMD

What a week! Just when I thought I was going to get into our RipTide XR457 and make real headway with it , I've been hammered for yet more contract designs. Only this time, we're being asked for designs between 20 - 35 ft. So I can see some long days about to start. So, I'll make this short tonight as I've got a lot to do such as doing more to our new forum, plus also bit of design work.

So have a good one & we'll catch ya's next time.
Havagreatweekend !!

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

In this week's "World on Water" we feature the WMRT finals St Moritz, the Perini Navi Cup in Porto Cervo, the Rolex International Women's Keelboat Championships on Lake Ontario, The roll-out of the Vitruvius Yachts "Galileo G" Ice Class Motor Yacht, the Audi MedCup Soto 40 Class finals Cartagena, the 29er XX Women's Downhill Skiff Cross Event in Cesme Turkey, the capsize of the new America's Cup Spanish entry Green Com Racing in Plymouth, our action segment "Fresh to Frightening" and much more!

Click HERE to watch the thrilling episode now. You won't want to miss it!

Our NEW BOATBUILDING FORUM.

Of late, we've been getting requests if we could re-instate the Boatbuilders gallery back into a forum for boatbuilders.

So after giving it much thought, we approached "Messing about with boats" Forums to see if we could use their facility instead ( a lot more user friendly). Talking with Frank, he readily accepted our proposal and set it all up for us.

So, our previous gallery is now being closed and everything has been shifted across to our new forum. So, if your interested in discussions and sharing your builds with everyone, please join our new forum

LATEST LAUNCHING'S
Chucks Sandy Strait 14 - Splashed !

Yesterday we received an email from Chuck (Seattle - USA) who just launched his Modified Sandy Strait 14 that morning. Early on in the build, Chuck decided to add a small cabin up the front to shield them from the COLD winds that they get.
Looks great Mate !

He writes:
Hi Mark,

I have a bunch of photos to send. It has been a busy Summer. We finally got warm weather and sun in August. Otherwise it had been way below normal.

The boat is pretty much finished. This was the first time in the water. Still have some odds and ends to clean up but it essentially done. I want to do more trim painting and need to work on the control linkage, but Dick and I decided to give it it's baptism today and wanted to show you that it does float!

It went well! It was just Dick and I in the boat and as Dick is more of a "boater" than me, his first impression is that it was great. It has a new motor and I am supposed to keep it below 3000RPM for the first three hours, so we did not really get to wring it out. I did not get to firewall it and see how it went.

All that being said it handle's great and plane's really well. It will be a very fast boat and with that 25HP, 2 cycle Yamaha, it's really going to move it along.

It might not get back in the water until next spring. We want to go to a lake with a park and take the entire family. The rain will be here soon and I will be off hunting in a couple weeks.

Had a great crab season this year. We even got tired of eating them. (Ha ha )

So the first impression is great. It will be a fun boat.
Take care,
Chuck

To see more of Chucks Launching, please click HERE. To see his Build photo's, click HERE

For more information about the Sandy Strait 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.
If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

Phil's CX457 update

I got a phone call from Phil the other day, asking if I had checked my email.

Cranking up the computer and checked my mail and here is what I found.

Wow, look great Mate !!

To see more of Phils RipTide CX457 build, please click HERE.

For more information about the RipTide CX457 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Alan's Magnum 12 Build

Mark,

Please find attached some photos of the current progress on the Magnum 12.

All the hull is stitched up. Next step is to add some glue.

Regards,Alan.

To see more of Alan's Magnum 12, please click HERE.

For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Marks XR457 Build.

Over the past few days, Debbie and I have been out in the shed, hammering away out our RipTide XR457.

We cut out all the bulkheads, longitudinals and floors and dropped them into postion.
All ok, so then we pulled them out and then glassed up the interior of the boat.

Time to sand the interior ready to put all the parts back in.

Now we're tabbing all the bulkheads/ longitudinals and floors into position.
To see more of Marks XR457, please click HERE.

For more information about the RipTide XR457 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

If your building one of our designs, why not join our Forum, we'd love to see them !!
If you have any comments, please post your comments below!
--------------------------------------------------
So see you next week with our latest weekly news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest Weekly News (Week 34 - 2011)

2011-09-01T15:52:00.005+10:00

WELCOME TO OUR WEEKLY NEWS FROM BMD

With our holidays now over, it's time to go to work. One of the things I did that I've wanted to do for a while was to get sample of various species of plywood and test them for Bending strength (Modulus of Rupture), stiffness (Modulus of Elasticity) and Density.

Overall I was pretty surprised with the results, especially when you can pay a lot of money for top quality plywood and it turns out no better than the lesser cheaper plywoods.

After testing 3 pieces (per species of ply) and then averaging the results, I then calculated for Strength to weight ratio, Stiffness to weight ratio and Structural Efficiency. Once again, here I was surprised with the results, as I mentioned above.

Simplified Test Equipment

Next I prepared 12 test pieces of the same species of plywood, but applying either coats of resin, layers of 200gm cloth or layers of 450 gm Double Bias to test for how much the strength increases by as a %. This test is still continuing.

So, in time I'll be publishing my results here on our website as I plan on bringing out an "Articles" section within our site, for those that may be interested in reading about these topics.

Anyway, thats all from me for this week, so have a good one and ...

HAVAGREATWEEKEND !!

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

The latest edition of "World On Water" features the 2011 Solitaire du Figaro, 2011 Rolex Fastnet Race, 2011 Meridian Marinas Airlie Beach Race Week, 2011 Audi Hamilton Island Race Week, "Fresh to Frightening" featuring one of the most embarrassing crashes ever in the 18 Footers Australian Championships and more!

For the latest weekly round-up of all the top news and action from around the world of boating, click here to watch the show now.

LATEST LAUNCHING'S

Grahams SportzMaster 19---Splashed !!

Hi Mark,

I launched the boat this morning in Pumistone Passage and the performance was exceptional. It got to the plane at 10 to 11 knots and was over the hump at 12.5 to 13 knots the acceleration is scary to 35 knots +.

The boat travels as straight as and its cornering is superb with no hint of undue list or skid.

Two people can stand on the one gunwale with minimum list and you could fish comfortably.

Movement of one person to any position at any speed makes no difference to its steering characteristics and there is no list whatsoever.

Crossing over the wake of several boats travelling at 15 to 20 knots the boat had virtually no slap and no rudder correction was needed.

I have towed up to 6 dories behind a mother ship anywhere from Mackay Queensland to the Darnleys in the Torres Straits and would have no hesitation hooking the SportsMaster up anywhere in the train and heading off in any weather in my book that means its good.

I will have no hesitation to take the boat out wide in fact I am looking forward to it and I will give you my assessment.

Mark,you have my second accolade and are to be complemented on the SportsMaster design.

Cheers

Graham

We look forward to hearing more of Grahams SportzMaster 19 has he takes it out offshore. Unfortunatly where he launched his boat showing the pictures above, there was only a 300m section between two 4 kt zones either side. So has soon as he got his boat up and attempting to "open" her up, he had to back of just as quickly. This meant he didn't really have time to trim the outboard correctly (the outboard shown is actually trimmed "outwards" instead of being in the neutral position or trimmed slightly in), resulting in a bow up attitude as shown above. The forefoot as shown in the bow section should be "just" in the water.

However, he is planning on taking the boat "outside" to be able to open her up and also getting trimmed correctly for optimum performance and efficiency. So, we look forward to getting some updated pictures of the SportzMaster as well as some video footage as well !! Overall, I'm looking forward to seeing the design... in ACTION!!

To see more of Grahams SportzMaster 19's, please click HERE.

For more information about the SportzMaster 19 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.

If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

Alan's Magnum 12

Mark,

I have completed the transom and the longitudinals, and they are mounted on the building frame. I have cut the transom to suit a long shaft engine, ie 20 inches deep.

The rest looks pretty good.

Next I have to join the 4mm sheets for the bottom and sides.

Regards,

Alan.

It's great to see another new design taking shape. We look forward to bringing his latest new update build pictures as he progresses.
Looks great mate !

To see more of Alan's Magnum 12, please click HERE.

For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Marks RipTide XR457

Hull interior all sanded

Funny, I had planned on getting stuck into our RipTide XR457, but you know what it's like when one take holidays. You end up doing everything else, except what you had planned on doing.

I did manage to get all the bulklheads and longitudinals cut out, then I sanded the interior ready for glassing. I then decided to "dry fit" all the parts to make sure that all fitted well. Top one.

So, now its time to pull everyhting out (takes 1 minute) and get into glassing the interior.

Parts Dry fitted

Anyway, here's a few photo's of where I'm up to at the moment.

I hope to bring you more ...next week? (ha ha )

To see more of Mark's RipTide XR457, please click HERE.

For more information about the RipTide XR457 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

If your building one of our designs, why not send your build or launch pictures to us, we'd love to see them !!

If you have any comments, please post your comments below!

--------------------------------------------------

So see you next week with our latest weekly news !

Thanks for visiting our website

http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest Weekly News (Week 31 - 2011)

2011-08-09T18:40:00.002+10:00

WELCOME TO WEEK 30 FROM BMD

G'day all,

What a hectic week ! We took off to Brisbane to catch up with our kids and whilst there, I was invited by Aluminium Boats Australia for a visit and see the 3 large aluminium ferries under construction, bound for Gladstone and the mining sector. Came back home to find a ton of email enquires from around the world about our designs, plus build pictures as well.

With perfect weather overhead, I decided to get out into the shed and start working again on our RipTide XR457. Felt good to be back boatbuilding again. So over the coming week, we hope to have her glassed up and begin installing the longitudinals and bulkheads.

Anyway, have a great week and haveagoodweekend
regards

Mark

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

In the latest edition of World On Water we feature action from the 2011 Tour de France a la Voile, tragedy in the 2011 Chicago Mackinac Race, 2011 Audi MedCup Soto 40, the recent 18 Footer Grand Prix from Germany, 2011 La Solitaire du Figaro, our "Fresh to Frightening" action segment featuring mad Frenchmen at ridiculous speeds plus much more!

Don't miss out on the show. It's packed full of unmissable action from around the world on boating. Visit our website to watch the latest episode of “World On Water”

LATEST LAUNCHING'S

Phils RipTide CX457

With the Builders plate and motor on, registration was easy. With Great Excitement the day had come to launch her. Eight months of building and now it was time to try out my boat.

My Riptide was launched on 7/8/2011 at 1.30pm and I headed out to Jumpingpin bar to try her out. She handled like a dream, taking the bad 20knot NNW wind head on and while crossing the bar, all the time I felt really safe in the boat.

The RipTide handled better than the boat that had been stolen from me two years proir. I am over the moon about this boat, it's got so much potencial!

With Marks help from all of this, I now have my boat back and... I had a great time building it as well.

Can't wait for next weekend... I'm going fishing!

I have decided to name the boat “Swell Affair”, for a lot of great reasons !!

Regards Phil Martin

Brisbane. QLD

P.S. I hope to have some more pictures next weekend and hopefully a video as well !

To see more of Phil's RipTide CX457 Launching, please click HERE

For more information about the RipTide CX457 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of our latest build photo's segment of our blog.

If your building one of our designs, why not send your build pictures in...we'd love to see them

Sam's Sandy Strait 14

Sam from the NT has just sent in his latest build pictures of his Sandy Strait.

You can see from his pictures just how large the interior is with enough room to lay about enjoying the day fishing. Sam decided to add side decks and also a front deck to accomadate his anchors etc instead off having a forward seat as per the plans.

Looking great Sam. I can see it won't be long now and we'll be having another Launching !!!

The Sandy Strait 14, (a composite/ plywood design) based in part on the Mushulu 14, but with a different internal layout suited to the avid fisherman, the Dandy Strait 14 is lightweight for its size and easily handled by 2 people.

The Sandy Strait 14 has a simple open plan design, with the priority being for easy planing at low speeds, great stability whilst at rest, and reduction in fuel consumption without compromising the strength, durability and safety of the design.

Careful consideration was given to loads of storage lockers, side shelfs for all that fishing gear that needs to be kept handy and comfortable seating throughout, whilst still providing a stable platform for fishing or other recreational activities without compromising safety for those on board.

Designed also for ease of construction for the first time builder, the Sandy Strait 14 is light enough to be easily trailerable for adventures in distant places.

To see more of Sam's Sandy Strait 14, please click HERE

For more information about the Sandy Strait 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Ron's Bosun's Mate 23

Hi Mark

still on hull bottom – slowed with weather.

I’ve welded up 2 x galv pipe horses for putting the upside down boat on ( nice and strong for all sorts of jobs)

I’m planning to turn the boat over twice , the second time to finish off the keel and then do strakes followed by glassing and painting to about 100mm from the chime – much easier to work on while upside down.

Thanks Ron

The Bosun's mate 23 evolved from the same seaworthy fishing boat designs used in third world countries, resulting is a strong, yet simple to build and economical to operate. Designed for long range cruising and minimal fuel consumption, she boasts a waterline Length/ Beam ratio of 3.75, with fine entry for wave penetration improving speed, easy driving and sea keeping abilities, but it also reduceing fuel consumption.

To see more of Ron's Bosun's Mate 23, please click HERE

For more information about the Bosun's Mate 23 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Phils RipTide CX457

Over the past week, its been a madhouse for Phil as he prepares for launching.

Sending in his latest build pictures prior to launching, he was running around fitting the trailer to the boat, fitting the Australian Builders Plate and his outboard and then all the little bits and pieces before going to the Transport Dept for registration.

"No hassles" doesn't mean "no frills" when it comes to the RipTide CX457. Like the RipTide CC457, this boat packs a lot of amenities for fishing, cruising and watersports enthusiasts and is a small boat designed on big ideas.

Offering the features and functionality typically only found in much larger boats, the RipTide CX457's compact size means she can be easily trailered to where the action is - whether it be diving, exploring a secluded beach, fishing or... just simply relaxing on the water.

Overall, the RipTide CX457 is the perfect boat for people who want to do a little of everything, ...

Without spending everything you have !

To see more of Phil's RipTide CX457, please click HERE

For more information about the RipTide CX457 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Tony's Cruise Control 5.2

Got a phone call from Tony this week with his latest build picture's in the mail.

With his bulkheads and longitudinals now tabbed in, he's now starting to think about adding the foam under the sole for bouyancy (sheet styrofoam) and also getting is fuel tank etc made and installed.

We look forward to seeing more over the coming weeks with his build.

The Cruise Control 5.2 .is a cuddy cabin design combining the comfort for those family outings, whether it be swimming, diving or just enjoying the day, but at the same time she also had to satisfy those who are into serious coastal or offshore fishing.

With her deep "V" hull (20 degrees @transom), sharp entry and strong sheerline, she had to be tough and rugged, yet simple in her concept.

Designed for seaworthiness, practicality and smooth ride for outside adventures, whether it be a glassy sea or a grey horizon, she had to be designed to bring you and your family home safely, and in comfort.

So settle back, enjoy the day as you cruise the blue horizon,

.....Your in Cruise Control

You asked, we listened.

The Cruise Control 5.2 was driven by customer demand for a strong, proven style fisherman offering a true balance of beauty, hardcore fishability, weather protection, performance and comfort in an exciting offshore trailerable package. Featuring a 20-degree deadrise for stability combined with her deep entry, the Cruise Control 5.2 delivers a smooth ride ride through all types of seas, creating a whole new realm of possibilities for weekend adventures. For the angler who desires the ultimate in a highly mobile fishing platform, the Cruise Control 5.2 is literally... in a class of its own.

To see more of Tony's Cruise Control 5.2, please click HERE

For more information about the Cruise Control 5.2 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Mark's RipTide XR457

I've finally managed to get out into our shed to start working on our RipTide 457.

"No hassles" doesn't mean "no frills" when it comes to the RipTide XR457. This boat packs a lot of amenities for fishing, cruising and watersports enthusiasts and is a small boat designed on big ideas.

Offering the features and functionality typically only found in much larger boats, the RipTide XR457's compact size means she can be easily trailered to where the action is - whether it be diving, exploring a secluded beach, fishing or... just simply relaxing on the water.

The first job of course was to sand the interior to prep it for glassing. Naturally, when sanding , one finds a few spots here and there that need to be filled with 50/50 glue and fairing powder.

Here's a picture looking aft showing the hull all sanded ready for cleaning

Sure feels good to be back boatbuilding again !!!

To see more of Mark's RipTide XR457, please click HERE

For more information about the RipTide XR457 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

If your building one of our designs, why not send your build or launch pictures to us, we'd love to see them !!

--------------------------------------------------

So see you next week with our latest weekly news !

Thanks for visiting our website

http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest Weekly News (Week 30 - 2011)

2011-08-02T17:41:00.000+10:00

WELCOME TO WEEK 30 FROM BMD

Ahhhh... Holidays ! No designing, No gazing at the computer for hours on end and No number crunching. !!! "BLISS". I could get used to this. I reckon we need a union, demanding 6 months holiday...twice a year ! All those in favour ..say "I"

Being a "Member" of the Royal Institute of Naval Architects (MRINA), last week I attended a meeting with the subject on:

" A design sudy on the AC72 catamarans".

WOW !. Interesting subject as the conference discussed:

* AC72 Class rules

*The wing - aerodynamics

* The Hull - Hydrodynamics

* The Platform - Structure

* Structural Optimisation

* Design Review

* Weight Study

I can see that the next generation of AC boats are getting on the cutting edge of technology now.

Anyway, we have some interesting things happening over the next week, so we'll catch you next time

So have a good one and havagreatweekend !

Mark

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

This episode of "World on Water" gives results on the Audi MedCup TP 52's Sardinia Cup, Farr Volvo Open 70, the Six Senses Phuket Raceweek, 2011 Panerai British Classic Week from Cowes, and in "Fresh to Frightening" we look at the "hot" spinnaker action in the 25 knot Mistral in the Audi MedCup Cagliari, Italy.

Join us for this week's sailing news report on our website, the only place to watch the best of global sailing.

AMERICA'S CUP UPDATES

With behind-the-scenes peeks, profiles and up-close action on and off the water, we'll take an in-depth look at the 34th edition over the next two years, offering an exclusive window into one of the most prestigious events in sport.

Click HERE to see the latest 1/2 hour action packed video. This will be updated each week !!

The still-intact aft bilge pump of

the Swedish 17th century warship Vasa as

seen from the upper gun deck.

BILGE PUMPS ARTICLE

With so many visits over time regarding this article, I decided to re-print it again for those that didn't view it.

Talking with Graham (Graham is building the SportzMaster 19), the subject of bilge pump systems came up. As we all know, bilge pumps would have to be on the top of the list for any boat. Failure to do so can result in water damage, loss of stability, and even sinking. Even so, water will find its way aboard through drips in windows, through hatches and ventilators, and through spray or rain entering an opening. In rough weather, solid water will come on deck, finding its way below through everything from chain pipes, hatch gutters or to a door left open for to long.. Then of course there are leaks in the hull itself. These could be small drips through packing glands, damaged fittings, or- the worst fear- a sizable hole from a major impact. As we’ll see even a seemingly quite small hole below the waterline can admit a substantial amount of water very quickly.

REQUIRED BILGE PUMP CAPACITY:

There aren’t many regulations for pleasure craft pump capacity. We can refer to the ISO 15083-2003 (categories A,B and C recreational boats) and AS1799 standard for some guidance.

GPM – gallons per minute

LPM = litres per minute

ISO boats less than 19.6ft (6m): = 2.6 GPM ( 10 LPM or 600 litre per hour)

AS1799 boats less than 33 ft (10m): = 17.44 GPH (66 LPM or 3960 litres per hour)

As you can see, there is quite a variation in minimum bilge pump capacity requirements.

ESTIMATING FLOODING RATE FROM HULL DAMAGE:

The minimum recommendations for bilge pump capacity seems to low. We can check the minimum required pump capacity against the approximate flooding rate from a rather small hole in the hull below the waterline. The following is a reasonable approx formula for flooding rate:

GPM = 5.56 x d^2 x (sq.rt)H

Or
LPM = 2.08 x d^2 x (sq.rt)H

d = approx opening diameter, in or cm

H = depth of opeing below the waterline (head), in or cm
Example:
Let’s assume a simple puncture of approx 2” (50mm) diameter located 6 in (152 mm) below the waterline for a power boat or yacht.
5.56 x 2^2 x (sq.rt)6 = 54.47 GPM

2.08 x 5^2 x (sq.rt)15.2 = 203 LPM

If you were unlucky enough to get an impact 1.5 ft down ( 457mm) with the same hole diameter, then the amount of water pouring in would be approx 94 gallons per minute or 351 litres per minute !

“Whoops - unless you have some form of foam flotation or sealed air compartments, …your going down, unless your boat is made from wood”. Even still, you would still want to have the capacity to pump the boat out faster than the water is coming in !

You can quickly see however, that even a hole of modest size (and not all that deep) will quickly exceed the minimum bilge pump capacity required above. There are practical limits to how large a bilge system you can and should install, but I recommend more than the minimum requirements above.

SIZING UP A BILGE PUMP FOR THE REAL WORLD

Many manufacturer’s bilge pump capacity ratings aren’t all they ought to be. Most manufacturer’s rate their pump capacity with no hoses attached and with no lift (head). Those that do rate for head state this clearly, and it’s usually a nominal 10-ft of 3-metre head or height. However, not a boat in existence operates a bilge pump with no lift or hoses attached.! Also, the friction in 3 to 6 feet (1 -2 metres) or more of hose and pipe commonly found in all bilge systems cuts the flow rate, and the batteries are seldom delivering full oomph.

Manufacturer’s rate capacity in gph (gallons per hour) or gpm (gallons per minute); or in metric lph (litres per hour) or lpm (litres per minute) Unfortunatly, that shiny new pump rated at, say, 1,500 gph (5,700 lph) in the catalog will seldom deliver more than half that in a real- sevice installation. Indeed, 40 percent of rated capacity is about the norm. In other words, the real flow out the thru-hull outlet from this 1,500-gph (5,700 lph) pump will be about 600 gph (2,280 lph)

Allowing for this loss in flow rate, what’s the minimum pump capacity that should be installed? The following will give sensible results.

Pump Capacity (gph) = 1000 + (100 x displacement in long tons)

OrPump Capacity (lph) = 3,785 + (372 x displacement in metric tons)

Example:
Assuming a boat has a displacement of 2200 lbs (998 kg or .998 metric tons)
Long Ton = 2240 lbs

2200 lbs / 2240 = .982 long tons

1000 + (100 x .982) = 1098 gph or 1098 gph / 60 minutes = 18.3 gpm

3,785 + (372 x .998 metric tons) = 4156 lph or 4156 / 60 minutes = 69.27 lpm

This is the minimum power-driven pump capacity (manufacturer’s rated capacity; we’ve allowed for 40 percent efficiency) that should be fitted. If you have less capacity, get a bigger pump or an additional one.

To avoid large amperage draw on the batteries, install the larger high capacity pumps on pads to lift them about 5 inches (125mm) above the lowest point in each bilge compartment, with each pump’s automatic float switch up on the same level. Small –capacity submersible pumps are located right at the lowest point in the bilge sump in each compartment, with their auto foat switches at their level. In this way the smaller, low powered pumps handle the vast majority of routine bilge pumping. This reduces battery draw. In the event of a serious flooding situation, the water rises high enough to trip the upper-capacity bilge pumps.

Hope this helps out.

Have a good one

Mark

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of the latest build photo's segment of our blog.

So, if your building one of our designs, why not send your build or launch pictures to us, as we'd love to see them !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Phil's RipTide 4.57

Phil just sent in his latest build pictures... its now finished and ready for launching.

As I write, he's having his motor fitted, so, we look forward to seeing his launch photo's and hopefully some video footage as well... very shortly!!

Offering the features and functionality typically only found in much larger boats, the RipTide 457's compact size means she can be easily trailered to where the action is - whether it be diving, exploring a secluded beach, fishing or... just simply relaxing on the water.

Overall, the RipTide 457 is the perfect boat for people who want to do a little of everything,

Without spending everything you have !

To see more of Phil's RipTide 4.57, please click HERE

For more information about the RipTide 457 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

If your building one of our designs, why not send your build or launch pictures to us, we'd love to see them !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

-------------------------------------------------------

So see you next week with our latest weekly news !

Thanks for visiting our website

http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD latest Weekly News (Week 29 - 2011)

2011-07-28T12:04:00.000+10:00

WELCOME TO WEEK 29 FROM BMD

What a frustrating week. What was supposed to be my first week off from work as a part of my holidays, turned into another working week. As I was creating the webpage for the Magnum 12, my website program crashed and I ended up losing my entire website. Grrrrr. I wasn't happy at all.

So, over the past week and a bit, I ended up sitting here at the computer (yet again) re-creating the entire website. I had a copy of it, bit it was a bit old, but a least I had a base to work from.

So, while I was there, I decided to add yet more features and, delete other's that were not being used. I hope you find the website a bit easier to navigate your way around as I've broken the "plan's" section into catagories as well. I've also loaded up the "strip planking " videos as well, which you can find in the "Power boat index" page.

Anyway, hope we all had a great week and we'll see you next !

Havagoodweekend !

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

The latest edition of "World on Water" covers the WMRT Stena Match Cup Sweden Men's final, PWA Costa Teguise World Cup, Groupama 4 passing their Volvo Race scrutineering in Lorient, "Fresh to Frightening" showing the RNLI rescues during the recent Round the Island Race and much more!

True sailors wouldn't want to miss it so check it out now here on our website. World On Water is produced every week and always contains the best action and news from around the world of boating.

LATEST NEW DESIGN - THE MAGNUM 12

The plans for the Magnum 12 are now finished and available on our website. Sorry for the delay, but we had issues as mentioned above with our website.

To see more of the the Magnum 12, please click HERE

For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of the latest build photo's segment of our blog. W have 4 builds on show this week, a RipTide 457/ a Sandy Strait 14, a SportzMaster 19 and a Magnum 12

So, if your building one of our designs, why not send your build or launch pictures to us, as we'd love to see them !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Phils RipTide 4.57

The RipTide 4.57

The latest with Phils boat, as he mentioned on the phone is, the boat is now turned upright and he's now bogging/fairing and painting the inside.

"No hassles" doesn't mean "no frills" when it comes to the RipTide 457, this boat packs a lot of amenities for fishing, cruising and watersports enthusiasts and is a small boat designed on big ideas.

Offering the features and functionality typically only found in much larger boats, the RipTide 457's compact size means she can be easily trailered to where the action is - whether it be diving, exploring a secluded beach, fishing or... just simply relaxing on the water.

Overall, the RipTide 457 is the perfect boat for people who want to do a little of everything, ...

Without spending everything you have !

To see more of Phil's RipTide 4.57, please click HERE

For more information about the RipTide 457 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Sam's Sandy Strait 14

The Sandy Strait 14

Talking with Sam, he's now personalizing his boat, adding small features that he's wanting into the boat. He's also adding a small side deck to mount all his fishing rods etc.

Designed also for ease of construction for the first time builder, the Sandy Strait 14 is light enough to be easily trailerable for adventures in distant places. But overall, it had to be simple and easy to build, without spending everything you have.

To see more of Sam's Sandy Strait 14, please click HERE

For more information about the Sandy Strait 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Alans Magnum 12

Alan writes:

The Magnum 12

"Mark,

Attached is a photo of the progress so far. All temporary frames are complete, and the front two are braced.

Now waiting for the plywood to arrive.

Regards,

Alan."

The Magnum 12 car-topper has made the average camping trip extraordinary. Being able to fit atop a four wheel drive, the Magnum 12 can turn a camping trip with the family into a great adventure.

Perfectly suited for any river, estuary or lake adventures and the perfect camping companion, the Magnum 12's innovative design for stability when fishing and, having a v-shape hull means these boats are able to cope comfortably with choppy waters.

With features that include front and rear bench seats, front deck, bilge sump, flat floor and ample storage space, the Magnum 12 will complete any camping trip, but also expand your adventures to the water.

To see more of Alan's Magnum 12, please click HERE

For more information about the Magnum 12 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Graham's SportzMaster 19

The SportzMaster 19

Talking with Graham, his SportzMaster 19 is now finished and ready for launching. ! We look forward to seeing that day with all his photo's and hopefully some video footage !!

Well done mate !

"Hi Mark,

Fitted outboard last Thursday,gave it a run today after tiding up everything. All appears ok

Cheers,

Graham"

The SportzMaster 19's personality manifests itself in the way she takes the sea. In a way, the SportzMaster 19 becomes an extension of the rod, unequaled as a partner in the battle, her reliability borders on relentless. To say the SportzMaster 19 is tough is to speak an understatement of immeasurable proportions. There is nothing casual in her lines or timid in her performance. She is a Sportz boat that is all business.The business of fishing, sportz and play.

Quite simply, the SportzMaster 19's is a yardstick by which others are measured.

"No game's, Just Sportz" is not just a slogan: it's a statement.

To see more of Graham's SportzMaster 19, please click HERE

For more information about the SportzMaster 19 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

If your building one of our designs, why not send your build or launch pictures to us, as we'd love to see them !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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So see you next week with our latest weekly news !

Thanks for visiting our website

http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//

BMD Latest Weekly News (Week 28 - 2011)

2011-07-20T18:22:00.001+10:00

WELCOME TO WEEK 28 FROM BMD

Another week rolls by and the plans for the Magnum 12 are now finished. During the past week, it was great to reecieve emails from our clients with build photo's included. (see below)

Also over the past week we've been getting emails from various people, asking what I'm designing next. Well... I'm having a few weeks off and having a holiday. Got a few jobs to do around the place, I want to get out into the shed and do some work on our RipTide 457 and want to spend some time with my grandkids.
So keep the emails coming and also your build/ launch pictures.
So, we'll see you next week and HAVAGREATWEEKEND !

LATEST "WORLD ON WATER" GLOBAL WEEKLY NEWS

In the latest edition of "World on Water" we cover the RC44 Cagliari Cup Sardinia, the Superyacht Cup in Palma Mallorca, The WMRT Stena Match Cup Sweden Women's Final, Neil Pryde Sailing Series Dunkerque, "Fresh to Frightening" featuring Ironbound causing a huge broach during the RC44 Cagliari Cup and much more!

World On Water is the best place to see all of the weekly headlines and action from around the world of boating. New shows are produced every week and you can't miss them! Tune into our website to watch the weekly show.

LATEST NEW DESIGN - THE MAGNUM 12

After so many delays, the plans for the Magnum 12 are now finally finished. As the design is a car-topper, we suggest that the boart be built from Gaboon/Okoume Marine Plywood with a density of approx 430 kg/m^3 to achieve the desired weight for easy lifting on and off the roof racks.
Give me a couple of days, and I'll have the magnum 12 webpage up on our website.
The "Magnum" 12 as the name suggests, offers you a roomy and tough dinghy, the first in a series of lightweight cartoppers.

This design is now under construction (see below)

Perfect for crabbing, fishing, or to just loll the days away, the Magnum 12 is the perfect getaway from it all. With her full forward sections capable of handling a bit of "rough 'n' tumble, generous "flair" to keep you dry and loads of storage compartments, the Magnum 12 provide's excellent stability when fishing or underway.

Weighing in at approx 40 kg (88 lbs), the Magnum 12 is more than capable to suit your fishing and holiday needs.

LATEST WEEKLY BUILD PHOTO'S

Welcome to another week of the latest build photo's segment of our blog. This week, we have 4 builds on show, a Bosun's mate 23/ a RipTide 457/ a Mushulu 14 and the start of our latest new design..the Magnum 12
So, if your building one of our designs, why not send your build or launch pictures to us, as we'd love to see them !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ron's Bosun's mate 23

Hi Mark
progressing a little each day, so here some more photos for your "Latest News"

032 = ply butt join with rebate of 150mm and glassed with 450dbs

033= Port hull bottom joined

034= ply butts with rebates ready for glassing

036= ply sheet butt & rebate joined (glassed) and faired with Q cell mix

( easier to do while flat on work bench, rather than when stitched into hull shape)

37= Port bottom sheet butt joined, faired and sealed with resin – ready for stitching up

comment –a. 1mm rebate actually finished up a bit deeper than required, hence fairing with Q cell mix

b. 3 sheets of ply joined becomes a bit of a ply python to handle by myself - eventually managed by clamping on a length of 2 x 1.

c. enjoying building again – should get basic hull done & sealed ok before the wet season

Ron Savage

To see more of Ron's Bosun's Mate 23, please click HERE

For more information about the Bosun's Mate 23 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

(This design's webpage is being presently updated)

Phils RipTide 457

Phil just sent in his latest build pictures of his RipTide 457 all painted and now ready to be rolled over.
"No hassles" doesn't mean "no frills" when it comes to the RipTide 457, this boat packs a lot of amenities for fishing, cruising and watersports enthusiasts and is a small boat designed on big ideas.
Offering the features and functionality typically only found in much larger boats, the RipTide 457's compact size means she can be easily trailered to where the action is - whether it be diving, exploring a secluded beach, fishing or... just simply relaxing on the water.

To see more of Phil's RipTide 457, please click HERE

For more information about the RipTide 457 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Ken's Mushulu 14

Hi Mark,

Here's my latest build pictures that I've attached.
Two pictures of the runnning strakes .
Cheers
Ken Williams
Adelaide

The Mushulu 14, (a composite/ plywood boat design) is lightweight for its size and easily handled by 2 people. The Mushulu 14 had to be tough and rugged, yet simple in it's design and construction without the added "toys" to complicate the design.

Designed for ease of construction for the first time builder, the Mushulu 14 is light enough to be easily trailerable for adventures in distant places. But overall, it had to built, without spending everything you have.

To see more of Ken's Mushulu 14, please click HERE

For more information about the Mushulu 14 design, or any other of our range of designs, please visit our website

Alan's Magnum 12

Mark,

Today I have modified the strongback from the previous boat to suit the Magnum 12. It needed to be widened, and the temporary frame locations adjusted. Due to space limitations in the garage, I lift it into the ceiling space when not being worked on.

In due course the finished boat will live in the same space when not being used. So, I am now ready to begin building the temporary frames.

Also, as you know the hardest part of boat building is to come up with a name. I have decided at this stage to call it the “Bullet”, in reference to the Magnum 45 of Dirty Harry. “Magnum 12” or Magnum 3.6” didn’t sound quite right.

Regards,
Alan.

If your building one of our designs, why not send your build or launch pictures to us, as we'd love to see them !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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So see you next week with our latest weekly news !
Thanks for visiting our website
http://www.bowdidgemarinedesigns.com//