i550 sailboat review

Building, restoration, and repair with epoxy

Building the i550 Sportboat HOT CANARY

By ben gougeon.

An autopilot steering failure on his sailing scow  Yello Thing  forced Meade to withdraw from the 2010 Everglades Challenge . When he reached the shore, he was already thinking about building another boat for the next race.

Slappy, one of the boatshop cats takes a last stroll around the deck before Hot Canary heads to Florida.

The next boat needed to be more substantial to handle rough seas. It needed to be trailerable and comfortable yet still meet the race’s natural requirements. Meade and Jan began looking into the i550, an 18′ sportboat designed by Chris Beckwith. The pair decided that with a few modifications the i550 would be perfect for the race. They ordered the plans and construction began.

The i550 Sportboat Solution

The Gougeon Brothers technical staff constructed the hull in their shop with Captain James R. Watson overseeing the building process. The i550 sportboat is built with plywood stitch and glue construction. We used ¼” 5-ply Okume plywood and judiciously placed 5 oz carbon fiber. The entire boat was built with WEST SYSTEM® 105 Epoxy Resin® and 207 Special Clear Hardener® .

The i550 sportboat under construction in the GBI shop.

With all of the bulkheads in place the ties were cinched tight before fillets and fiber-glass tape were applied to reinforce the joints.The next boat needed to be more substantial to handle rough seas. It needed to be trailerable and comfortable yet still meet the race’s natural requirements. Meade and Jan began looking into the i550, an 18′ sportboat designed by Chris Beckwith. The pair decided that with a few modifications the i550 would be perfect for the race. They ordered the plans and construction began.

The i550 sportboat’s bulkhead is stitched in place with zip ties.

The first task was to scarf three 4′ × 8′ pieces of the marine plywood together using the WEST SYSTEM 875 Scarffer™. We constructed a simple jig to enable the proper cut point on the plywood to minimize waste. After cutting the panels, we bonded them together with a mixture of 105 Resin and 207 Hardener thickened with 406 Colloidal Silica filler. Then we lightly sanded the panels with a random orbital sander to clean the scarf joints and prepare the surface for a coating of 105/207 mix. We “flow coated” the surface by applying mixed epoxy with a 10″ drywall knife. This was an efficient, yet effective method to coat three 22′ × 4′ panels with epoxy prior to construction.

With the panels coated, we overlaid the Tyvek™ patterns (provided by Watershed Sailboats) on the panels and made reference marks to transfer the pattern shape for accurate cutting. Using a handheld jigsaw, we cut the patterns from the panel, careful to leave the original reference marks intact. It’s always easier to remove extra material later than it is to put it back on.

Captain JR Watson built an ingenious jig we used to set a scribe mark around the perimeters of the cut and trimmed panels. From this point, we drilled holes at 8″ intervals to allow for the HDPE zip ties to “stitch” the panels together.

We loose-fit the panels with the zip ties in place to achieve something close to the desired hull shape. With bulkheads fitted in the same manner, the i550 was starting to look like a boat.

The daggerboard trunk was fit in position after the bulkheads were in place. Gray pigment was added to the fill coat of epoxy over the fillets.

Once the i550 sportboat was moved to the boat shop, work on the deck began. Another shop cat, Newbie, looks on.

After cinching the zip-ties we added some spacer modifications to the bulkheads to alter the hull camber midship and forward of midship. We tabbed the seams with WEST SYSTEM 732 Episize 9 oz fiberglass tape. When the epoxy had thoroughly cured, we removed the zip ties.

We then completed the cockpit, deck, stem, and stern using techniques detailed in the book, The Gougeon Brothers on Boat Construction. After completing the hull, we moved the boat across the street to the Gougeon Brothers boat shop for Meade and Jan to finish. They made a few modifications and customized the boat to fit the needs of the race. The i550 sportboat is a one-design class that allows modifications.

The first thing we looked at was the bulb keel called for in the plans. Because we needed a shallow draft, we built a straight keel that fully retracts into the hull. This flush keel arrangement is ideal for moving the boat over land. The Everglades Challenge requires all boats to be manually moved from the beach to the water.

We cast a NACA 12% lead foil and attached it to a board with the same section. An aluminum crane fitted with a winch lifts the keel through the daggerboard case. This arrangement provides a sufficient mechanical advantage for one person to raise the keel to the desired height. The boat can be sailed with the keel up, down, or at any position in between. When portaging, the keel would be raised until flush with the bottom. The keel allows for sailing in shallow waters and for it to be easily trailered. With the keel cranked all the way down, the i550 is very seaworthy and has tremendous righting-moment.

Meade and Jan will use three heavy-duty, reinforced 10″ × 48″ beach rollers to move the craft over land. The rollers, stowed beneath the cockpit, serve double duty as positive flotation.

The next thing we focused on was the rig. We bought a 25′ 6″ carbon fiber mast from C-Tech in New Zealand. Because the rig has to be lowered during the portage and pass beneath a 10′ high train bridge, we fitted the craft with a tabernacle instead of a standard mast step. This tabernacle allows one to raise and lower the mast without assistance. No gin pole or stay guides are required. All internal halyards pass into the tabernacle and route to the cockpit.

Meade Gougeon rolls a coat of paint on the overturned hull of the i550 sportboat, while his brother Jan follows up with a tipping brush.

Ben Gougeon demonstrates the blowout safety feature of the rudder with a moveable trailing edge tensioned with a shock cord.

The aluminum crane fits into a slot on either side of the hull and can lift the keel for sailing in shallow water or trailering.

The bowsprit of the i550 sportboat is hinged at the bow and attached to a crossed line at the base of the cockpit which will allow it to pivot 30 degrees.

The Rudder Assembly

Because the rudder was the major source of malfunction on Yello Thing, Meade knew the i550 sporboat needed a forgiving steering system. He designed a daggerboard-style adjustable draft rudder with a blowout safety feature. The rudder foil is set into a case with a non-destructive breakaway system that involves a moveable trailing edge tensioned with a shock cord. The boat can be sailed with the rudder fully extended, or in shallow water, partway up. This rudder configuration eliminates any chance of damage when grounding, while retaining a balanced helm at any depth of rudder setting, permitting shallow water control.

Instead of a retractable pole that protrudes from one side of the bow, common to sportboats, we experimented with a pivoting pole that can be adjusted off-center up to 30° for better downwind performance. The bowsprit is hinged at the bow and attached to a cross-line at the base of the cockpit. This allows the spinnaker to be articulated from inside the cockpit.

With this final change complete, the i550 is now ready to take on The Everglades Challenge. We wish Meade and Jan, along with all the participants of The Everglades Challenge, the best of luck this year.

Anyone who is interested in building their own i550 sportboat may contact Watershed Sailboats at www.i550sportboat.com. Our WEST SYSTEM technical advisors are happy to assist anyone considering this project. Call us toll-free Monday through Friday 9-5 ET, 866-937-8797.

Meade and Jan shake down the completed i550 sportboat Hot Canary in Florida prior to the race.

Have you always wanted a performance sportboat, but didn’t have a performance sportboat wallet? The original i550 was created for the MicroTon class, and has since been upgraded and redrawn as a one-off sportboat for fleet racing.

It’s ease of building for the amateur builder with “stitch-and-glue” method ensures a light, solid hull, and a quick build for even those with NO boat building experience.

Due to it’s simple construction method, there’s not much to the construction process. The whole thing can be cutout, and “stitched” together in a weekend. The construction process is fairly simple and straightforward; The wood panels are cutout and “stitched” together in a string jig to keep the boat symmetric. Once the boat has been stitched, the open hull is left right side up, and the seams glued with glass tape and epoxy. Frames are set in the boat, and taped with epoxy in place. The whole interior can then be epoxied and finished before adding the decking.

Decking comes next, then the hull exterior itself. The boat is still light enough in this stage that it can be easily turned over with the help of come friends. The bottom faired and finished and the hull turned back upright. Rigging is added, and any interior details come next. Sounds simple? That’s because it is. Total build time is typically about 200 man hours.

There is room down below for simple accommodations, and “camp style” sleeping. Plenty of room on deck ensures comfort both up and downwind. A bulbed keel gives stability and righting moment while allowing the boat to keep dinghy like performance.

The plans pack consists of: Construction Notes, Suggested Bill of Material, profile, plan and section views, nesting diagram, hull panel diagrams, frame diagrams, interior piece diagrams, keel and keelbox diagram, rudder diagram, cabin trunk diagram, deck layout diagram, and a rigging diagram. The plans pack is all A sized drawings in a easy to work with binder. Plans include both the standard, and extended cockpit version.

The rig can be obtained through a number of sources. We’ve put together a rig package for North American builders available upon request. Additionally, we plan to offer hull kits, and keel bulbs in the not so distant future. Check back soon for more information.

This boat has been built in 3 sizes, ranging from the i550, to the MG25, to the MG30. Plans are currently being redrawn for the latter two models and will be available soon. There are also a number of other designs coming; a smaller 15 foot sportboat, that is in the works, check back in the coming months for more details on these projects.

This is a great way to afford a high performance sport boat at a fraction of the cost of other offerings of this type of sailboat. If the builder is resourceful it can be sailing for less than $5,000. If the builder uses all the best brand new sails, mast, hardware and a trailer it can be sailing for $9,000.

It is fast, speeds in excess of 16 knots are quite possible!

Several of the photos in this article were submitted by Andrew Clauson in Australia. Andrew built the boat in a few seasons time, and will be racing other 6m sized sportboats. For more information on Andrew’s project you can visit his website at:

https://tokyotrashbaby86.tripod.com

Plans available from Duckworks - Click HERE Join the i550 discussion at Yahoo - Click HERE

Thank you for taking a couple minutes to read about the i550. To  contact us about plans etc., please email us at [email protected] .

The i550 has found a spot in the building sheds and imaginations of hundreds of sailors around the World. It is an 18 foot performance sailboat designed for amateur home builders. The performance is thrilling and has given many sailors memorable days on the water.  i550’s plane in moderate breeze and can be sailed single handed, two crew make it lots of fun, and on windy days three will have thrilling rides. 

The cabin will accommodate two for camp cruising and shelter. 

The i550 was designed with the garage builder in mind. One of the most important considerations for a garage project is “will it fit.” Most garages built in the last 40 years are about 20 feet long inside the door to the back wall. The i550 will fit. Another consideration is that you can park it in the garage when you have finished your build, safe, clean and dry, and not have to pay yard storage fees. It is easily towed with a normal sedan, a great advantage for the family and your sailing horizons are unlimited.

Specifications:

Weight  800 lbs. (363 kg)

Length  18 feet or 5.50 meters (hence the 550 in the name)

Beam 8 feet

WL Beam  4 feet  6 inches inches

Draft - 10 inches (300 mm) keel raised for trailering

4’ 8” keel down while sailing

Keel weight  150 lbs minimum 185 lbs maximum

Sail area 250 sq. ft. Main & Jib

Asym.  Spinnaker 350 sq. ft.

Fastest boat speeds are solidly in the teens, possibly pushing 20 knots.

 Go to YouTube for some fun videos.

The primary building materials are 1/4” (6 mm) marine plywood, epoxy, fiberglass and carbon fiber. The shape of the boat has been drawn with simplicity in mind and has roots in historic Long Island Sound Sharpie oyster boats. The oyster boats were simple and fast with a heavy load of oysters. First back to the packing house got the best price. 

A race for the money every day was a real stimulus for building fast hull shapes. 

The name Sharpie defined them. 

The founders of West System Epoxy, Jan and Meade Gougeon, built  an i550 for themselves, remarking on the power ratio of the i550 expressed as sail area to wetted surface area. There is a great amount of horsepower to weight, period. They filmed themselves building their i550  “Hot Canary",  for the Everglades Challenge and edited it down to 3 minutes from 12,000  frames.

  https://youtu.be/GDs_BKdYjaQ

Wood is an outstanding engineering material, period. Epoxy is an outstanding glue and waterproof coating, used throughout the construction the boat. Each part of the boat is coated with epoxy on all surfaces to exclude moisture. When mixed with different additive powders epoxy can be thickened to form structural peanut butter consistency for joints or smooth as silk fairing putties for painted surfaces. Dry wood lasts forever, go ask the Egyptian Pharos. 

Boats built using epoxy/wood composite 40+ years ago are as strong as the day they were launched.  Boats built this way last as long or longer than fiberglass boats and remain stronger longer. 

They smell better, too .

There is an enthusiastic group of builders to be joined at i550class.org and i550facebook A tremendous depth of knowledge and skills can be found there and help for any questions that might come up is offered freely. They welcome new people all the time. A number of very experienced and knowledgeable builders are posting there. It is one of the remarkable characteristics of the group. 

We invite you to email or phone me with questions for plans, full size patterns of the hull and frames and precut kit sets of the  frames and hull panels. Plans are sent by emailed .pdf files. CNC .dxf files for routers are an option for those with access to these great tools. 

Prices are very affordable.  $100 for emailed plans, 

$350  for CNC router cutting files, pdf plans included. 

The i550 has an established a deserved niche as a "best bang for the bucks boat".  

Tim & Susan

Pictures from around the world of i550's built from our plans

Plan set $100 usd sent as a .pdf..

Dimensioned in Metric and Imperial measurements

All drawings for hull panels, frames, keel, rudder and 6 deck versions included.  

CNC files $ 350 USD.

.dxf files for CNC Routers .pdf plans included. 

If you already have a set of plans $100 will be deducted from $350 

Hull parts & templates

Hull Panels and Frames Kits

Durable full size templates of hull & frame panels

Rudders 

i550sailboat.com

Drop us a line!

Sign up for our email list for updates, promotions, and more.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

277 Pines Drive, Pagosa Springs, Colorado 81147, United States

(970) 507-0428

Copyright © 2019 i550sailboat.com - All Rights Reserved.

Powered by GoDaddy

• Forums New posts Unanswered threads Register Top Posts Email
• What's new New posts New Posts (legacy) Latest activity New media
• Media New media New comments
• Boat Info Downloads Weekly Quiz Topic FAQ 10000boatnames.com
• Classifieds Sell Your Boat Used Gear for Sale
• Parts General Marine Parts Hunter Beneteau Catalina MacGregor Oday
• Help Terms of Use Monday Mail Subscribe Monday Mail Unsubscribe
• Thread starter Peter Ross
• Start date Jul 30, 2009
• Forums for All Owners
• Trailer Sailors

This past winter I got hooked on a small sportboat called the i550. It's a stitch and glue plywood screamer that is quickly growing world wide. The boat can be built from plans, kit or from full size patterns. I chose to loft my own since I had enough Okoume plywood to built the boat. There are class rules which are have plenty of room for error for the first time builder. There are two cabin length options and the designer has chosen to build his with a flush deck. Needless to say, I have pushed the envelope a tad and heavily modified mine, while keeping the boat class legal. I kind of wish they mandated a cabin but if someone was going to build a flush deck screamer, I had to do it as well. The first boat, Tokyo Trash Baby is well known and has several fantastic Youtube videos which will certainly get one's attention. The boats do have an interior and if you don't mind cramped quarters, berths for a small family of four. Full kits are somewhere near $2,500+- and plans, including official class hull #s are only $75. They claim build time is around 200 hrs, but I have at least that much time staring at the boat wondering what to do next. It has been a blast to build and the class involvement and contribution is second to none. The boat is has a retractable bulbed keel and can be ramp launched with ease. Total sailing weight is 800 lbs. No restrictions on materials, but plywood is best. I had a tough time with the stitch and glue because of my background of hard plug construction, but got it done and feel prouder of that accomplishment than any boat to date. Class website for any interested: http://www.i550.org/index.php My boat (have not updated photos for a few weeks) : http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o145/Tynaje/222/ Tokyo Trash Baby video (several to choose) : http://video.google.com/videosearch...&q=tokyo trash baby&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wv # Hull # 107 video : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Iux...=view&catid=2&id=2931&feature=player_embedded I don't think a person could get into any boat with this kind of performance, stability and fun for the buck. It can also be detuned a bit for family trailer fun, 107 has reduced sail area and rig height I believe. Peter  

sailormanbigd

good stuff Peter, thanks for sharing. Whats the length?  

Phil Herring

sailormanbigd said: good stuff Peter, thanks for sharing. Whats the length? Click to expand

You cast your own bulb? Where and how did you determine the alloy? Saw a couple of pics of a foam positive. Any other information on the website? Thanks  

Napa Ed said: You cast your own bulb? Where and how did you determine the alloy? Saw a couple of pics of a foam positive. Any other information on the website? Thanks Click to expand

Spreading the Koolaid I see, the west coast is a little behind you guys, we hope to see 3 or 4 splashed next year, working on keel and rudder on mine this summer, laminated redwood foils and wheel weights for the bulb. There have been discussions about a group build for the hulls this fall in L.A, if anyone else is interested.Go the I550. Tim, hull #159  

i550, we're spreading like a fungus Hi, found another place to recruit KoolAid drinkers, I see. Heheheheheheh TR  

• This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies. Accept Learn more…

Log in or Sign up

You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly. You should upgrade or use an alternative browser .

seaworthy, bigger i-550... suggestions?

Discussion in ' Sailboats ' started by peterchech , Aug 10, 2011 .

peterchech Senior Member

I really like the concept behind the i-550. I would like to see plans for something similar, but slightly bigger with some basic accommodations (one burner stove, porta-potti, small double berth). It would be for coastal cruising, and occassional offshore hops. (no transat though lol) What I really like about the i-550 is the chined plywood S&G hull is easy and fast to build, I like its lifting keel, and obviously its planing hull/high speed. Oh, and it is lightweight enough for me to trail it without a huge SUV. Lucas was offering plans for a chined mini 6.5, but his website is down and I don't know where to find specs and plans for it. Plus I doubt it has a lifting keel, and trailering that may not be realistic. Is there anything out there similar to the i-550 but with more cabin space???  

Doug Lord Flight Ready

I-550 + There may be a couple of boats in this thread-and some links that may be helpful. Good Luck! http://www.boatdesign.net/forums/sailboats/21st-century-daysailer-weekender-30756.html UPDATE: you might contact "Timber" who is a member here and the owner of the I-550 rights and/or Chris Beckwith the designer for some ideas....  

CutOnce Previous Member

Not what you want to hear, but ... There are almost as many designs in this range as there are designers. Given today's economy, you can buy a used 25-30' weekend style boat for far less than the materials to build one. And you don't have to sand and fair for weeks. Scary but true is the fact that you can probably BUY a complete used boat for the parts necessary to rig a new build - at half the price of buying the rigging a piece at a time at the chandlers. It is absolutely staggering what masts, booms, sails, standing and running rigging, line and foils cost. Building a boat can be a life-changing experience, but do not do it because you think you will save money, end up with great value or be able to sell it for double what it cost. Build because the build process delivers some value to you other than the boat - if building is just a means to an end you are way better off to buy. You might want to look at PAR's designs, Graham Byrnes designs ( B&B Yacht Designs ) - There is an area to this site where you can find hundreds of designs and designers . One thing to note about the conversations here - many of the designs discussed are NOT real, have NOT been built, and have no existing class for racing, socializing or resale value. You have to separate the vapor-ware from the real thing - or you could spend a lot of time and money talking to the wrong people. Don't dismiss racing because you aren't interested - racing one design classes and PHRF racing is the single best way to have some confidence in resale value and adding a very important social scene to your participation in the sport. My club has a sad stretch of dock where all the misfits, orphans and many one-off homebuilts live - make sure you would be happy there instead of with a group of friends. Take a very hard look at your requirements - and available budget. If you've got less than $10-$20,000 to spend - don't consider a new build - you can buy a used boat for a fraction of that. I hate to blow away the romantic dream and thoughts of glistening varnish, but you are looking at hundreds of hours of hard dirty work. Then again, I like to build boats. -- CutOnce  

frank smith Senior Member

I saw a design by a French designer that was about 40'. So it will work . F  

PAR Yacht Designer/Builder

Peter, you'll have to refine you desires a bit, which will help narrow your search parameters. The the general size range I think you're looking for and as CutOnce has mentioned, there are literally thousands of choices. The 18' to 20' range is the largest of all and there are lots of options. Your desires have some conflicts, such as cabin accommodations, porta-potti, V berth (assumed) and a light weight go fast package. There are preformance oriented cruisers, but they'll get eaten alive by a i550 if similarly sized. Look around, there's plenty to select from once you refine your SOR. Have a look at the Vagabond 18 (> http://www.bateau.com/studyplans/VG18_study.htm?prod=VG18 <), which is the same length, but has accommodations in a preformance oriented package. Or her bigger sister the Vagabond 20 (> http://www.bateau.com/studyplans/VG20_study.htm?prod=VG20 <). Both are considerably larger then the i550 in terms of hull volume.  

luckystrike Power Kraut

peterchech said: ↑ .. like the concept behind the i-550. I would like to see plans for something similar, but slightly bigger with some basic accommodations (one burner stove, porta-potti, small double berth). It would be for coastal cruising, and occassional offshore hops. What I really like about the i-550 is the chined plywood S&G hull is easy and fast to build, I like its lifting keel, and obviously its planing hull/high speed. Oh, and it is lightweight enough for me to trail it without a huge SUV. Is there anything out there similar to the i-550 but with more cabin space??? Click to expand...

Sounds alot like what I'm looking for Michel. Problem is I just think that once you get into mini 6.5 sizes, the costs begin to explode. We are talking about 6K for an i550 if you're a good scrounger, and at least double that for a ply mini 6.5 (assuming rig/etc are not the top of the line race-ready sort, which would cost much more) I spoke with Tim, license holder of the i550 plans. Apparently there have been alot of requests similar to mine. One guy modified the boat by making it a foot longer, but the balance wasn't got just right and the boat would occasionally round up under spinnaker. He suggested I may want to extend the cabin out to the gunwhales to get some more interior space. He says there is sitting headroom, though from the looks of it he means sitting with your legs directly in front of you, so I'm not too sure how a porta potti would work for the girlfriend... He's gonna try and set me up to check out an i-550 in the northeast. I can't commend the customer service enough, he answered my questions and more, and then responded within hours to my e-mailed questions.  

peterchech said: ↑ Sounds alot like what I'm looking for Michel. Problem is I just think that once you get into mini 6.5 sizes, the costs begin to explode. We are talking about 6K for an i550 if you're a good scrounger, and at least double that for a ply mini 6.5 (assuming rig/etc are not the top of the line race-ready sort, which would cost much more) I spoke with Tim, license holder of the i550 plans. Apparently there have been alot of requests similar to mine. One guy modified the boat by making it a foot longer, but the balance wasn't got just right and the boat would occasionally round up under spinnaker. He suggested I may want to extend the cabin out to the gunwhales to get some more interior space. He says there is sitting headroom, though from the looks of it he means sitting with your legs directly in front of you, so I'm not too sure how a porta potti would work for the girlfriend... He's gonna try and set me up to check out an i-550 in the northeast. I can't commend the customer service enough, he answered my questions and more, and then responded within hours to my e-mailed questions. Click to expand...

Tad Boat Designer

A few years back design Rob Humphreys did a series of performance plywood kit boats for Yachting World......there was the H22 and some others.....I don't know what happened to the project but they were interesting designs.......  

peterchech said: ↑ Problem is I just think that once you get into mini 6.5 sizes, the costs begin to explode. We are talking about 6K for an i550 if you're a good scrounger, and at least double that for a ply mini 6.5 (assuming rig/etc are not the top of the line race-ready sort, which would cost much more) I spoke with Tim, license holder of the i550 plans. Apparently there have been alot of requests similar to mine. One guy modified the boat by making it a foot longer, but the balance wasn't got just right and the boat would occasionally round up under spinnaker. He suggested I may want to extend the cabin out to the gunwhales to get some more interior space. He says there is sitting headroom, though from the looks of it he means sitting with your legs directly in front of you, so I'm not too sure how a porta potti would work for the girlfriend... Click to expand...

luckystrike said: ↑ Take a sail on an i550 and you will see that it is definetly no cruising boat with comfortable bunks. By the way ... if your girlfriend has a problem with a portapotti in the cabin, give her a bucket in the cockpit.l Click to expand...

Girlfriends and buckets... peterchech said: ↑ LOL Michel you must be single Maybe I need to find a german girlfriend? Put up some pics of your design. You gonna build it sometime soon? Click to expand...

Hahahaha that reminds me of my dog. As a puppy my girlfriend fed it boiled chicken and rice because it didn't want to eat dog food. Eventually this had to stop, so against my girlfriend's wishes I insisted that only dog food be left in her plate. She would get hungry eventually... By day two the pup was crunching happily on her kibble Keppler died from not taking a piss? haha it is incredibly difficult to balance a kayak and take a piss I suppose but come on ;-)  

peterchech said: ↑ Kepler died from not taking a piss? haha it is incredibly difficult to balance a kayak and take a piss I suppose but come on ;-) Click to expand...

• Advertisement:

So, here it is. The Coastline Flyer 6.5 Hi Peter, here it is what you want. My first concept of a simple, very fast, easy and cheap to build, campcuiser with useable space inside. The design title is: Coastline Flyer 6.5 Accomodation: 3 to 4 full size berths, 4'+ inside sitting height. lifting keel with draft from 1' fully retracted to 5' 6'' maximum. Intermediate position for sailing in shallow waters is possible where you want to have it. A lightly built boat should come out of the shed with 550 to 580 kg (~1210 - 1280 lbs) boatwheight, a displ. of 950kg (2090 lbs) giving a payload for crew and gear of 370 kg ( 814 lbs). Check out yourself if it is much more expensive than the original. The biggest cost factors are: - max. 25 sheets of 1/4'' and 3/8'' marine ply, for hull, structure, deck, cockpit, deckshouse and basic interior. 2 sheets less if you can get 2 sheets of 10'x5'x3/8' for the bottom. - local grown lumber, no exotics ~ 60kg of Epoxy (West 105 or similar) ~ 300 - 350 lbs leadballast ~ 30 yards 6 oz glas sheeting ~ mast 28 to 29'', can be taken from a Soling (or similar) open keelboat modified to fit the boat. double spreader (18footerstyle) rig, no backstays. -three small 1 gear winches, traveller, gennaker boom from reinforced windsurfer mast, The renderings shown are absoutly preliminary to get an first impression, not faired yet. Calculations are done with safety factors. The rig plan is a handmade sketch to show how a 8.8m (29') mast will look on a 6.5m boat. Have Fun with it! Happy dreaming, Michel  

I was wondering if anyone could tell me if this odd boat forsale near me is seaworthy

Bigger Sail for Laser Pico

• No, create an account now.
• Yes, my password is:
• Forgot your password?

March / April Issue No. 297  Preview Now

Sailboats - Cruising

The i550 is a fast modern sharpie type hull shape owing its roots to the historic sharpies of Long Island Sound. The sharpies were known for their speed and seaworthiness, the i550 picks up where they left off. It fits in with the sportboats speeds and ability to plane off the wind.It is a simple design for stitch and glue construction using 1/4″ (6 mm) marine ply, epoxy and fiberglass. Quite a few have been built in North America and Australia, Croatia, Russia, Brazil and 15 other countries.There is a builders group at i550class.org and numerous Youtube videos. It is a welcoming group and has a wealth of knowledge to share.

Design Specifications

Watershed Sailboats Tim Reiter [email protected] 970-507-0428

ACCESS TO EXPERIENCE

Subscribe today.

Publishing dynamic editorial content on boat design construction, and repair for more than 40 years.

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION (6 ISSUES)

Print $39.95, digital $28.00, print+digital $42.95, from plans & kits.

Selkie Kayak Kit

Didi Cruise-Mini

Point Comfort 18

From the community.

Classic 44' Tacoma Boatworks Trawler 1948

“Ronny” was built at the Tacoma Boat Works in Seattle in 1948.

1986 Van Dam Pulling Boats

Vintage 1970 Highliner Gypsy

Many upgrades. $12,500. NO EMAIL. PHONE CALLS ONLY.

Register of Wooden Boats

Tyrone is Sam Crocker’s design #202 launched 1939 at the Simms Brothers boatyard in Dorchester, M

• Row boat plans
• Sailboat plans
• Power boat plans

i550 by Watershed Sailboats

Annoyingly fast sport boat.

URL: http://www.i550sportboat.com/

Description:

The i550 is easy to construct, even for even the amateur builder, with a plywood "stitch-and-glue" method that ensures a light, solid hull, and a quick build. Or, to save drawing and cutting time, you can buy a kit from us, cut from the master templates or full-size paper patterns that are very accurate.

The i550 is annoyingly fast and has troubled much larger sportboats, like Elliot 7’s and a Melges 24.

The first i550 was launched in Australia a few years ago, home built by Andrew Clauson. It is the fabled Tokyo Trash Baby of YouTube fame.

The i550 is a big winner in the bang for the buck department. You’ll not only have the satisfaction of crafting your own sportboat, but think of the $25 or $35 thousand dollars you’ll be saving. Resourceful scavengers can put one together for $6,000 or less (US). Double that and you’ll have a carbon spar, fine sails, nice foils by a skilled maker and new everything. The building time typically spent comes in at about 400 hours for the hull, keel and rudder.

Following the plan set page by page, with the parts diagrams and instructions, the boat will come out right.

The rig has height and length limits, but the layout of the deck and cockpit are open to interpretation. Construction is simple stitch and glue plywood, epoxy and glass. Two people can have the hull looking like a hull in a weekend.

Put in the transom and bulkheads next while it is right side up. Epoxy coat and glass tape the parts in place and roll it over. Fair the bottom and fiberglass cloth it. There is room down below for simple camping style. Plenty of room on deck gives you room to move around. The lifting bulb keel gives stability and righting moment, but, most importantly, lets the boat launch easily at any boat ramp.

The plan’s pack consists of construction notes, suggested bill of materials, profile, plan and section views, nesting diagram, hull panel diagrams, frame diagrams, interior diagrams, keel and keelbox diagram, rudder diagram, cabin trunk diagram, deck layout and a rigging diagram. The plans pack is in a notebook-ring binder. Plans include both the standard and the extended cockpit version. Some creative builders are even building flush deck versions, and the Portland Group, who formed the North American Class (NA.org) have perfected the rounded flush deck version.

The mast can be obtained through a number of sources (both aluminum and carbon fiber). We will soon be offering keel bulbs and keels, ballast bulb molds and rudders. We also will build the i550 for you to any stage of completion. Clubs are especially encouraged to inquire. Before and after any purchase, Also, we are always here to answer your questions, anytime by email or phone. Five are now sailing in Australia. Many other builders, who have bought kits or full sized paper plans, are making great progress and we expect those i550 s to start launching soon.

Boats about same size as i550

Questions? Suggestions? Contact us at: [email protected]

Great choice! Your favorites are temporarily saved for this session. Sign in to save them permanently, access them on any device, and receive relevant alerts.

• Sailboat Guide

2012 18' i550 i550

• Description

Seller's Description

i550 sportboat for sale.

2012 professional build, flush deck model. Formerly known as Poker Face

Carbon fiber rigmast, boom, & 6 articulating carbon sprit. North sailsmain, jib, asym. Ronstan/Harken sail harware. All rigging, sail bags, etc. Custom built trailer included. No motor.

This is a fast boat. Speeds above 14kts.

Youtube videos of this boat sailing search i550 poker face

Bob Perry review at the i550 class website.

There is an active facebook page for this class as well.

Great boat for fast day sailing and camp cruising, racing, phrf. Large cockpit can accommodate a crew or can also be singlehanded. The Gougoen brothers (West System Epoxy) built a very nice example for the Everglades challenge called Hot Canary. Some good articles floating around out there on the speed and success of this boat.

Asking $6000

Email w phone # for serious inquiries please. Thanks for looking!

Equipment: Specifications: Weight 800 lbs. (363 kg) Length 18 feet or 5.50 meters (hence the 550 in the name) Beam 8 feet WL Beam 4 feet 6 inches inches Draft - 10 inches (300 mm) keel raised for trailering 4 8 keel down while sailing Keel weight 150 lbs minimum 185 lbs maximum Sail area 250 sq. ft. Main & Jib Asym. Spinnaker 350 sq. ft. Fastest boat speeds are solidly in the teens, possibly pushing 20 knots. Go to YouTube for some fun videos.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

This listing is presented by SailboatListings.com . Visit their website for more information or to contact the seller.

View on SailboatListings.com

Embed this page on your own website by copying and pasting this code.

• About Sailboat Guide

©2024 Sea Time Tech, LLC

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Sailboat Maintenance Tips
• Eco-Friendly Sailing Practices
• Sailboat Buying Guide
• Sailboat Insurance and Finance
• Sailboat Safety and Regulations
• Sailboat Technology Advances
• Sailing Gear and Equipment
• Sailboat Navigation Essentials
• Sailboat Restoration Projects
• Sailboat Interior Design
• Sailing Destinations Worldwide
• Sailboat Types and Designs

Racing Thrills: Navigating Waters with I550 Sailboats

Introduction:

Heading 1: Introduction to I550 Sailboats: Unleash the Speed and Excitement of Racing on Water

Sail into the world of exhilarating racing on water with I550 Sailboats. Unleash your inner sailor as you experience the ultimate thrill of speed and excitement. Designed for the adrenaline junkies and water enthusiasts, these cutting-edge sailboats are built to deliver an unmatched racing experience like no other.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and precision engineering, I550 Sailboats offer a unique combination of agility, control, and power. From the moment you step on board, you’ll feel the rush of the wind in your hair and the adrenaline pumping through your veins. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a beginner looking to take your sailing skills to the next level, these sleek and stylish sailboats are guaranteed to leave you craving for more.

Heading 2: Key Features and Design of I550 Sailboats: A Closer Look at the Vessel’s Performance and Handling

Key features and design of i550 sailboats: a closer look at the vessel’s performance and handling.

The I550 Sailboat truly stands out in terms of performance and handling capabilities. Crafted with precision, this vessel is designed to deliver an exhilarating and rewarding sailing experience. A host of key features make it a class apart in the world of sailboats. Here are a few notable characteristics that set the I550 apart from the rest:

• Lightweight yet durable construction for enhanced speed and agility
• Advanced sail plan optimized for maximum efficiency and control
• Ergonomically designed cockpit for optimal comfort and ease of handling
• Stable hull shape and a high-performance keel design for superior stability

With its sleek and modern design, the I550 Sailboat not only turns heads but also promises an unmatched experience on the water. Its innovative engineering enables precise control in varying wind conditions, providing sailors with the confidence to push their limits and achieve impressive speeds, all while maintaining stability. Whether you are a seasoned racer or a pleasure cruiser, the I550 Sailboat delivers impeccable performance and handling, making it a top choice among sailing enthusiasts worldwide.

Heading 3: Navigating the Waters: Tips and Techniques for Maximizing Speed and Efficiency in I550 Racing

Navigating the waters: tips and techniques for maximizing speed and efficiency in i550 racing.

When it comes to I550 racing, speed and efficiency are of the utmost importance. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a beginner looking to dive into the exhilarating world of racing, mastering the art of maneuvering through the waters is key. Here are some expert tips and techniques that will help you maximize your performance on the I550 sailboat:

• 1. Trim the sails: Properly adjusting the sails is crucial for achieving optimal speed. Experiment with the angle and tension of the sails to find the perfect balance and harness the power of the wind.
• 2. Weight distribution: Distributing the crew’s weight properly can significantly impact the boat’s speed and stability. Position yourself strategically based on wind conditions and boat trim to maintain the right balance.
• 3. Tacking and jibing: Mastering the art of efficient tacking and jibing can give you a competitive edge in races. Practice these maneuvers to minimize energy loss and maintain momentum during turns.
• 4. Stay alert to wind shifts: Keeping a keen eye on wind shifts is essential for adapting your sailing tactics on the fly. Adjust your course and sails accordingly to take advantage of favorable winds and gain an edge over your competitors.
• 5. Practice regularly: Like any skill, racing with an I550 sailboat requires practice. The more time you spend on the water, the better you will understand and anticipate your boat’s behavior, allowing you to make quick decisions and navigate with confidence.

Remember, becoming a proficient racer takes time and experience. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks or a steep learning curve. With dedication and perseverance, you can master the art of navigating the waters with I550 sailboats and thrill in the exhilaration of competitive racing.

Heading 4: Safety First: Essential Precautions and Equipment for a Thrilling yet Secure Racing Experience

Safety first: essential precautions and equipment for a thrilling yet secure racing experience.

When it comes to indulging in the exhilarating world of racing, your safety should always be the top priority. Preparing for a secure racing experience involves some essential precautions and equipment that can make a world of difference. Before you hit the tracks with adrenaline pumping through your veins, here are a few key safety measures you should keep in mind:

• Protective Gear: Invest in high-quality helmets, racing suits, gloves, and boots to safeguard yourself from potential injuries during high-speed maneuvers.
• Regular Vehicle Inspections: Thoroughly examine your racing vehicle before each race, checking for any mechanical issues, worn-out parts, or loose connections that could compromise your safety on the tracks.
• Safety Harness: Equip your racing car with a reliable safety harness that properly restrains you and minimizes the risk of injury should an accident occur.
• Fire Extinguishers: Always have a fully functional fire extinguisher at hand, preferably within immediate reach of the driver’s seat, should a fire break out during the race.

Remember, a thrilling racing experience is only enjoyable when proper safety precautions are taken. Ensure that you check off this essential checklist before you kick-start your adrenaline-filled journey!

Heading 5: Choosing the Right Sails: Expert Recommendations for Optimal Performance in I550 Sailboat Racing

Choosing the right sails: expert recommendations for optimal performance in i550 sailboat racing.

When it comes to I550 sailboat racing, selecting the right sails can significantly impact your performance on the water. With their sleek design and exhilarating speed, these sailboats demand sails that can handle the rigors of competitive racing. Our team of expert sailors has compiled a list of recommendations to help you navigate the vast options and make informed choices for your next race.

1. Material: The material of the sail is crucial for both durability and speed. Carbon fiber sails are a popular choice due to their lightweight nature, which allows for enhanced maneuverability and increased performance in varied wind conditions.

2. Cut: The cut, or shape, of the sail is vital to optimize both upwind and downwind performance. A sail with a flatter cut excels in light air conditions and upwind sailing, providing better lift and less drag. On the other hand, a fuller cut sail is more suited for downwind sailing and heavier winds, offering greater power and control.

3. Size: Finding the perfect sail size involves a delicate balance between power and maneuverability. It is crucial to assess the wind conditions of your race location and select a sail size that matches, considering both upwind and downwind needs. Remember, a smaller sail may provide more control, while a larger sail can deliver greater speed but may be more challenging to handle.

Q: What are I550 sailboats? A: I550 sailboats are high-performance racing boats designed specifically to navigate waters efficiently and provide thrilling experiences for sailors.

Q: What makes I550 sailboats unique? A: I550 sailboats are renowned for their exceptional stability, speed, and control. Their design features a lightweight hull and a powerful sail plan, allowing them to excel in various conditions.

Q: Are I550 sailboats designed for a specific type of race? A: While I550 sailboats are primarily built for racing purposes, they can also be used for recreational sailing. However, their design and features are optimized for competitive racing, offering heightened excitement for sailors.

Q: How do I550 sailboats perform in race settings? A: I550 sailboats boast impressive performance capabilities due to their advanced design features. They have excellent upwind and downwind performance, making them versatile in different wind conditions. Furthermore, their lightweight hull and efficient sail plan enable them to achieve impressive speeds, providing an exhilarating experience for crews.

Q: Can inexperienced sailors handle I550 sailboats? A: Due to their high-performance nature, I550 sailboats are more suitable for experienced sailors who are familiar with racing vessels. These boats require skill and expertise to handle effectively, especially when aiming to achieve top speeds. Novice sailors are encouraged to gain experience and knowledge before taking on the challenges presented by an I550 sailboat.

Q: What is the ideal crew size for an I550 sailboat? A: I550 sailboats are typically designed to accommodate a crew of three people. This crew size allows for efficient maneuvering and sail trim, ensuring optimal performance on the water. However, some experienced sailors may be able to handle an I550 sailboat with fewer crew members.

Q: Are there any safety considerations when sailing an I550 sailboat? A: As with any sailing endeavor, safety is of paramount importance. It is essential to ensure that all crew members are equipped with proper safety gear and are familiar with emergency procedures. Taking precautions like wearing life jackets, using safety harnesses, and regularly checking the boat’s condition can help mitigate risks and ensure a safe sailing experience.

Q: Where can one find races and events featuring I550 sailboats? A: I550 sailboats are popular in competitive sailing circuits around the world. Local yacht clubs, regattas, and sailing associations often organize races and events that include I550 sailboats. Online platforms and sailing communities can provide information on upcoming races and opportunities to witness these thrilling boats in action.

Q: Can I550 sailboats be modified for personal use? A: While I550 sailboats are primarily designed for racing, some enthusiasts may modify them for recreational sailing. However, it is important to consult with experienced professionals and ensure adequate knowledge of the boat’s capabilities and limitations before making any modifications.

Q: Where can one learn more about I550 sailboats? A: To learn more about I550 sailboats, interested individuals can visit reputable sailing websites, forums, and sailing publications. These sources often feature articles, reviews, and discussions that provide detailed insights into the design, performance, and racing experiences associated with I550 sailboats.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, exploring the world of sailing with I550 sailboats offers an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for both beginners and experienced sailors alike. With their remarkable speed, agility, and reliability, these vessels prove to be ideal for navigating waters and indulging in a true racing adventure.

The I550 sailboats’ unique design and efficient handling capabilities allow for maximum control and swift maneuvering, making them a popular choice among sailing enthusiasts. From their lightweight carbon fiber construction to their sleek and streamlined hull shape, these boats are tailored to maximize speed and optimize performance.

Moreover, the I550 sailboats’ high-performance sails and advanced rigging systems further enhance their racing capabilities. With their impressive ability to catch the wind and execute precise maneuvers, these vessels promise an exciting racing experience that will surely get your adrenaline pumping.

Beyond the thrill of racing, the I550 sailboats offer a comfortable and practical on-board experience. Designed with a focus on ergonomics and space efficiency, these boats provide ample seating, storage, and amenities to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable journey. Whether you’re embarking on a day trip or a longer coastal voyage, the I550 sailboats offer all the necessary comforts to make your time on the water both adventurous and relaxing.

As with any water sport, safety is of paramount importance when sailing with I550 sailboats. It is crucial to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills through proper training and certification. Familiarizing oneself with the rules and regulations of racing and boating is essential for a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

In summary, I550 sailboats are a thrilling choice for racing enthusiasts and sailing adventurers, thanks to their impressive speed, agility, and comfort. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, the joy of competition, or simply a memorable experience on the water, these vessels offer a remarkable journey that will undoubtedly leave you yearning for more exciting racing thrills. So, harness the power of the wind, set sail, and embark on a captivating journey through the waters with I550 sailboats.

• Recent Posts

• Tidewater Boats 250 CC 2012 Boats for Sale & Yachts Upgraded Model for 2023 - April 13, 2024
• Yellowfin 24: A Look Ahead to 2023 - April 13, 2024
• Sea Ray 480 Sedan Trades 2001 Boats for Sale & Yachts – Updated for 2023! - April 13, 2024

Related posts:

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Tidewater Boats 250 CC 2012 Boats for Sale & Yachts Upgraded Model for 2023

Yellowfin 24: a look ahead to 2023, sea ray 480 sedan trades 2001 boats for sale & yachts – updated for 2023, everglades boats 243cc 2012 boats for sale & yachts updated for 2023, key west 244 cc 2012 boats for sale & yachts updated for 2023, more from author.

Quick Links

• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy

Popular Articles