As much as I like my designs so far, after speaking to people who know more about boats than me (which is just about anyone really) I’ve decided to completely change my plans. The enclosed pod-like will have to go, as does the catamaran hull. An enclosed vessel would be extremely difficult to moor. Even more so because the high structure would catch the wind all too easy. And the catamaran hull looks good, but the tunnel through the middle is just too inefficient.

So, this is what I’ve come up with as an alternative:

I’ve changed to a scow or barge type hull, giving optimal stability and interior space. I’ve lowered the upper structure, minimizing wind susceptibility. I’ve added deck space for easy access during mooring (and sailing). I’ve narrowed the beam for better course stability. And I’ve added a mast as the main means of propulsion. Not sure if I’ll be adding an electric of traditional fuel outboard, but with the sailing capability it becomes less pf an issue either way.

Dimensions are now:

Beam: 1.70 m (5.5 ft)

LOA: 3.5 m (11.5 ft), excluding rudder

LOW: 3.35 m (11 ft)

Height: 1.2 m (4 ft)

Draft: 15 cm (6″)

I’m not sure about the interior layout and the steering position needs work. Also, the rudder is probably pointing forward too much at the moment. And I want to add chine runners along the bottom to help when sailing.

That’s it so far.