> While in Boothbay Harbor I saw two wooden kayaks that appeared to be made
> from plywood that was shaped to a form, what is this method? My father and
> I built a strip canoe 15 years ago that I still have and enjoy using but
> my wife and I are looking at trying Kayaking If I built a kayak I would
> want it to be an Expidition in order to haul gear. I am also considering
> building one each with my 3 children, probable the smaller one. What is
> the total cost of a finished one?

Believe it or not, I actually found plans for one of these things, or at least a description of plans for sale. Check with Clarkcraft for their plans #BK59. You can get their phone number and fax number from their webpage at www.clarkcraft.com

The description of this boat in my catalog reads as follows:

"The BK59 is a moulded single seat touring kayak suitavble for racing. It is built of three layers of thin veneer glued together over a mold. The mold may be used for making several canoes, making it a great choice for groups. The finished hull has no internal structure. It is 14'6" x 23-1/2" at the beam. The cockpit is 45". The load capacity of this model is 350 lbs. and the finished weight is only 32 pounds"

The complete set of plans, including full size patterns was being sold for $26 when my catalog was printed 5 years ago. Check on the current price.

I suspect that this design does not call for any fiberglass or resin. Probably the layers of veneer are connected with a waterproof glue and the outside of the kayak is then painted or varnished.

Since you want to make several boats this might be a good way to go. If all three layers of veneer are glued up on one day, then by the next day, when that glue has hardened, you shold have a roughly finished hull ready to add a deck and fit out the cockpit -- and paint.

Paul G. Jacobson