Building boats by hand.
Stories, plans, and hard-won lessons from thirty years of building boats in backyards and sheds.
Explore the Build Stories, plans, and hard-won lessons from thirty years of building boats in backyards and sheds.
Explore the BuildIn 1994, I started building a 40-foot catamaran in my backyard with little more than determination and a set of plans. Two years and nine months later, Tokyo Express hit the water. Since then, I've built small boats, designed plans for others, and documented everything along the way.
This site is for anyone who's ever looked at the water and thought: I could build that.
Three ways into the world of boat building.
The full story of building a 12m catamaran from scratch. Design, construction, launching, and years of cruising.
Weekend builds and backyard projects. Perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting to get on the water fast.
Detailed building plans for small boats. Clear instructions, material lists, and decades of experience built in.
"I built Tokyo Express using accessible materials and tools. Passion and persistence matter far more than having the fanciest gear."
In 1997, after two years and nine months, I launched a 12-metre cruiser/racer catamaran built from scratch. Custom steering, a kit-assembled mast, and everything designed with practicality and affordability in mind.
No exotic materials. No advanced tools. Just ingenuity and a willingness to learn.
Not ready for a 40-footer? Small boats are fun, practical, and a brilliant way to learn. Crafted in garages and backyards, they're ideal for family projects or anyone wanting to feel the satisfaction of building without a multi-year commitment.
See Small Boats
Building tips, stories, and lessons learned.
