Finally making some progress on actually building, rather than watching what others are doing online and day dreaming.

Glad to be back at it! I don't know how long it has been since I posted, it has been even longer since I was working on a project. I picked a boat of my list, actually 3 boats of my list. I really wanted to build the Ulua, because it is damn prettty and I like working with the strip built method. But, I had the plans for Wharram's Melanesia. I actually bought plywood and started out making the steering oar until I was asking around on the Yahoo Proafile group, and they suggested the Wa'apa. This boat has been on my list for a loooooong time. It really fits my needs as a simple inexpensive build. The modular nature  will be great for the build since I'm currently without a shop. When done, I won't need a trailer (doesn't mean I won't want one). 3 8' sections, so we can use him (pacific islanders charactarised their boats as "him" as oppossed to the european "her") as a 16' boat, or a 24'. More rig choices than I can count. Modularity is what this craft is about. I'm hoping we will use it for fun dayplay, camp cruising around Florida, maybe as a scuba platform  for scallops up around Weeki Wachi. Sail it, paddle it, put a small outboard or trolling motor. Plus endless combinations of rigs to play with. Who knows, I may even build a second and try it as a double canoe.

So, the build in my current setup is a challenge. Actually, I really do like working with hand tools. It forces me to slow down, pay attention and enjoy the process. Which is the point after all. I mean other than getting him launched and drinking some cold beers as we zip out to 3 Rooker!

I am using Gary Dierkings great book, Building Outrigger Sailing Canoes. Here is a link to his site and description of the design.

Here are some build pics so far. This album will grow, so eventually you should see the whole project through completion here.