Sanddollar skiff

[Gresham CA]

I have the plans for Arch Davis' Sanddollar Skiff and was wondering if the centerboard could be left out when constructing without affecting the integrity of the hull. (Excuse me while I wipe this crap off of me. I just got out of the bilge.)

[Captain Pre-Capsize]

Gresham:

Don't have an answer for you on the centerboard - give Arch a call. I am over half done with mine and he has been most helpful to this hapless builder. For me wood working was walking out to my wood pile and "working" my way back to the house. I am not handy and have NEVER done any such thing as build a boat. As a kid I couldn't even build those cars. His manual is great and the accompanying video quite helpful.

Be aware: the definition of what a "kit" is varies. For Sanddollar it is stem, transom, bulkheads, building forms, rudder and tiller. Other designers (Shell Boats comes to mind) provide everything but the paint.

Big difference though. Sanddollar is constructed the traditional way: upside down with chines and stringers forming the skeleton and then sheathed with the planking. Most other kits are the stitch and glue style.

Check out this website for a great look at Sanddollar:

http://bellsouthpwp.net/d/n/dnewnham/VarunaFrameHome.htm

Best of luck and fair winds,

Cap'n

[ 03-07-2003, 11:04 PM: Message edited by: Captain Pre-Capsize ]

[Shalfleet]

I also recommend giving Arch a call, he will be able to offer the best advice. It may be possible but the centerboard case does add strength between the keel and thwart/center seat. I would recommend at least building with a daggerboard case as she is a lovely sailer and it would be a shame to loose the opportunity to sail if you change your mind in the future. You could add a temporary cap on top of the daggerboard case to cover the hole which might be an option as you could remove it to fit a board later.

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