s&s dark harbor 20 first build

[langdale]

I seriously thinking off building a s&s dark harbor 20 as my first build.I have a lot of woodworking experience but not a lot of sailing or boatbuilding experience. Is this stupid? Is the design out of date or unsafe? I What problems do first time builder run in to? any suggestions.

[TerryLL]

I've been waiting for someone who has built this boat, or a boat of similar complexity, to answer your post. But, Ill offer my two cents now and see if anyone agrees.

IMO, the Dark Harbors are classic beauties, as relavent and practical now as the day they were designed. But their construction requires not only advanced woodworking skills, but advanced boatbuilding skills, as well as a firm committment to a long and intense project. Too many first-time builders embark on a build that is simply beyond their ability, or beyond their appreciation for the difficulty and time-committment involved.

My advice would be to pick a smaller and simpler first project, but one that will teach you the skills required to build the Dark Harbor when you are ready.

[Yeadon]

Stick your nose out and give it a shot. Take your time, do your research. If you screw something up, then try again. If you get frustrated, take a break. No hurry.

Build the boat that captures your heart. Boatbuilding is just a string of decisions that have to be made, followed by a lot of squinting and great concentration. Occasional feats of strength are required. Problem solving skills needed, too. However, it's not rocket science.

I would also suggest taking a week or two long boatbuilding class, either out there in the top right corner of America, or at the Center for Wooden Boats in Seattle. Take lots of notes. Ask lots of questions. Be good to the boat gods and bring the class some decent beer for the end of the day.

As a side note, I've heard that the scantlings on the dark harbor plans aren't as established as would be helpful for a first time builder. I'd suggest reviewing the scantlings with an actual boat designer of some sort.

Just curious, where are you located in the world?

[langdale]

I am located 35 minutes east of Mystic

[Yeadon]

I think you're in safe hands.

[Raka025]

Of course it's stupid but how else does one learn? It's stupid for me to have shipped a Concordia to Arkansas to rebuild. Welcome to the club & good luck. Dark Harbor's are beautiful boats.

[JimConlin]

Start with a dinghy of the same construction, perhaps one of some complexity. Look at the Herreshoff Columbia lifeboat.

[langdale]

that is a cute little boat