Lewis Boat Works: Custom Boat building and Plans
Building Chugger
A 12 ft Flat-bottom Minimalist Overnight CabinCruiser.
Please read this Disclaimer before building any plans found on this site:
Update: 10.03.02
The Launch!!!!!!!
When we got to the lake, I backed down the ramp until the rear wheels were just touching the water and basically just shoved the boat out and into the water. I held onto one of the transom knees and lowered the back into the water off the truck, then climbed down into the boat from there. Used a paddle to push over to the dock. It took a few tries to get the motor going (Chrysler 4 horse), but as I had just recieved it and had never tried it, I was very happy it ran. The day would have lacked something if I was only able to use the trolling motor I brought. Here is the first solo run. The lines are good, the boat very stable. I didn't run the motor up all the way, as we were in a No Wake area and I didn't want to cause a ruckus.
I'm kneeling (forgot the chairs) right against the side of the boat, notice how little she leans. I actually stood up and leaned over the side, but Tony (my boss and camera operator) didn't catch it. The boat leaned over but I still had at least 15" of the 24" sides above water. She keeps the nose well out of the water when trimmed to the rear.
Headed towards the dock. I didn't get the chance to paint in the rest of the smilie but I will this winter. Visibility is OK through the window, but you need to check for clear when first starting out as you are looking quite a bit ahead of yourself when cruising. Between the window and looking along the side, navigation shouldn't be too difficult. As you can see, looking over the top is an option too. If you are going straight, setting the motor and standing straight up to enjoy the view can be done.
I've never used an outboard before and was still getting used to it. I am coming in to pick up Travis for the loaded run. The boat is running about 430 lbs right now, with me, the motor, a trolling motor (no battery) and the boat itself.
Free plans are available on this site.
