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Classic wooden boat plans is a collection of established wooden boat designs ranging from the early 1900’s to about 1970. Some of our own designs are Banshee, Custom Barrelback 19 and the Deep V inspired by the Donzi Sweet 16, Bantam. Other plans include Chris Craft, Hacker, Gar Wood, Riva, Switzer, barrel back, Baby Bootlegger, Flyer, Teaser, Rosita Hacker.
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Banshee is a custom designed 14 foot runabout with a beam of just under 6 feet. The prerequisites were simple enough: A 14 foot runabout that seats 4 with a 1950’s look. An outboard was our first choice enabling costs to be kept down and allowing for inboard room. Unlike most 14 footers, Banshee has 6 frames spaced at 2 feet and includes an optional bulkhead. A low floor locks the rear frames and makes for a sturdy hull. The keel is straight from transom to stem which enables an easy set-up.
A general outboard well is detailed with supports which will allow builders to easily modify it if using a short shaft motor or generally looking to change the aesthetics adding curves to the well area. The Stem is drawn up with positioning for both the breast-hook and first frame. Front and rear bench seats are detailed and are designed for easy removal if required.
Expected outboard power is between 35 and 75hp based on build quality and load.
Plans Include CNC files and full size PDF files.
Chris Craft achieved amazing vessels by introducing the Barrelback or stern back, not only in looks but how they actually went together.
Original authentic copies are scarce for the 19 Barrelback, certainly no shortage of modified and self translated versions available. Due to lack of details and authenticated plans this version of a 19 foot Barrelback should best be described as loosely designed around the Chris Craft 19 1940. While overall sizes and layouts are fine, we have done away with the covering boards and removed the additional components associated with the engine and gas tank.
The chine and sheer logs are drawn in proving the lines and frame cut-outs. A 2“ x 1 1/2'“ sheer log is used to help form the bullnose edge. An additional partner line has been added to help place filling blocks along the sheer, deck side. Cut outs for side battens, hull battens and king plank are also included.
Plans Include CNC files and full size PDF files.
This is the APBA compliant version of the Cracker Box
Deductions have been made for hull, sides and deck so that once printed and cut your boat will be APBA legal. All frames are included, total of 13. Keel, Stem and
building jig are also provided.
In accordance with APBA rules. the Crackerbox Pro has been drawn up including outer hull thickens to maintain overall size regulations.
In addition to this, points J&K have been clearly marked on the plans ensuring that there is no ambiguity regarding their position.
Plans Include CNC files and full size PDF files.
After numerous request the completed Inboard Deep V is available for sale. Additions include engine stringers (suited to Merc 4.3) modified transom, rear lounge, bulkhead,engine cover and a sub floor to suit storage and add rigidity. A fairly basic version again suited to those looking for a similar project to the Donzi Sweet 16.
No jig is supplied as the keel is set using two heights from the baseline so set-up is quite simple. Eight frames in total, engine blocks are provide but only suitable for Mercruiser spacings. Please email us with any queries you may have on any particular inboard set-up so we can establish suitability.
Rear lounge is made up of 3 sections allowing the center to come away for access to engine compartment. https://smallboatsmonthly.com/article/bunduki/ is a lengthened version and built by Brian Reford at the Lyme Regis Building Academy, special thanks to Small Boats Magazine!
Plans provided as PDF files for full size printing.
CNC cutting files included.
Inspired by the Donzi Sweet 16, the Deep V Outboard is set out to accommodate those who prefer an outboard version.
The cockpit area has been opened up allowing more room for seating and customisation.
Outboard well is suited to long shaft, which are readily available.
Plans provided as full size PDF files for full size printing.
Included CNC cutting files.
It has been said that the 16 foot Gar Wood speedster is, pound for pound, the most valuable classic production speed boat in the world. Miss Behave is certainly the most well known of the original five speedsters brought to the St. Lawrence in 1935. Over the years, a number of copies of the boat have been produced, both on the St. Lawrence and abroad. An original cost roughly $1,340.00 when new, including a Gray Fireball Engine.
Since 1926, Ed Noble of the Lifesaver Candy Company, and a Gar Wood customer, had been speeding on the St. Lawrence River in his famous 33' Baby Gar, “SNAIL”. He told Wood that he and his friends only wanted a small, sporty racer that would be like a water version of the popular European sports cars. Wood’s answer was high performance sixteen footer with 2 seats aft of the engine that he called the “Speedster”. Its performance and appearance was similar to a cut-down Miss America racer. Noble fell in love with the boat and the first dozen produced were sent to the St. Lawrence River for Noble and his friends. His speedster was named the “Miss Behave” and others in the group were called “Miss Adventure”. “Miss Chief” and “Miss Conduct”. Speedster racing became a regular event on the St. Lawrence River right to the start of World War II. (Today the original “Miss Behave” is in the Thousand Islands Shipyard Museum).
Miss Behave is drawn up using ring frames as opposed to frame members, floor timbers have been added at frames and between frames in lieu of the original steam bent ribs. The Speedster is surely a piece of boating history, classic lines with a very sporty look featuring a rear cockpit and a wonderful deck crown. Suits cold molded construction.
Evangeline Special 33 foot runabout Hacker Craft 1924
Historically famous as being built for Henry Ford, Evangeline may be the worlds most attractive runabout ever. Named after a close friend of many years, Evangeline Cote Dahlinger. Evangeline was powered by a Liberty V-12 producing some 450Hp and 1250 lbs/ft of torque.
For further original images and wonderful commentary please visit Mecum Auctions here:
https://www.mecum.com/lots/CA0817-300157/1924-hacker-craft-33-custom-runabout-evangeline/
Restoration was carried out by Robinson Restoration in California and Evangeline took away honors at the 2015 Lake Tahoe Concours d’Elegance.
Please visit Woody Boater and take the time to read through this amazing story: http://www.woodyboater.com/blog/2014/10/09/ford/
Please Note: Plans are provided as full size PDF patterns to be printed by buyer. Sheet format is ARCH E, printer must be able to print on 914 mm/ 36” wide roll type. There are 16 frames plus transom, 19 floor timbers and 2 engine hatch options. Seating, bulkhead and dash are also included and a ladder style building jig that sets up the stringers and frames.
Palm Beach shows a close correlation to boats designed by John Hacker as both designers had worked together.
This has has been a pleasure to work on due to the amount of information supplied. There are some 78 individual parts and over 100 parts collectively provided. None of the original dimensions are altered so everything translates back to feet, inches and eight’s of an inch.
Replicated faithfully is “In Memory” by Kent Volmerding, perhaps one of the most respected builders and restorers today.
Plans provided in PDF format for full size printing.
Riva Aquarama 27 foot.
Possibly the most famous wooden boat worldwide, the Aquarama was an intricate design with a ground breaking approach to both comfort and quality.
She was designed with a bizarre frame set up ranging from 6 inches and up, most likely to accommodate the running gear of the time.
This version has all frames spaced at 18” and the double stringers for twin V8 installation! Each frame has its own full size plan so NO LOFTING required! 3D models are also provided as a visual aid in examining the construction. This version is from the original sheet plans and a full size building jig is also included.
Builders may also scale down the plans to create a proportionally smaller craft, even down to model size, say 1:10.
Floors and cockpits are full defined as is the anchor well, rear sun lounge, transom and rear deck skid.
It’s a very seaworthy and proven hull for those looking to build a large offshore boat for friends and family.
The video below was taken of the 23 Riva replica launch, Belle et Rebelle built by David.
Plans provided in PDF format for full size printing
Riva’s only outboard designed in the early 50’s with a 25hp Evinrude. Some 140 models were built between 1950 and 1957. We have been fortunate enough to have received a good set of plans that cover all details enabling us to replicate this little treasure.
Frames include double gussets, seat risers, side battens, keel cut-outs and all other details as per original plans. Dimensions are stated in millimeters and in imperial (inches)
At 14 feet there are 9 frames in total spaced at 440 mm or about 17 inches, details on seating and floors is also included ensuring a very close if not exact replica for those happy to put in the effort
Plans provided in PDF format for full size printing
Ladder style jig included in plans
Bullet 13' 6" by Switzercraft.
The frames can be CNC cut from the DXF files supplied, Bullet is such a low riding speedboat, ring frames are a great way to go. This is truly a treasure from the past, designed years ahead of it’s time and really suited to any level of experience…This is the original Bullet as designed and built by Switzercraft. As there is some ambiguity over the rear transom, both a flat and a 15 degrees version are provided.
With kind thanks to Bob Switzer for his help and construction images on the Bullet!
Also available is our custom 16’ Bullet.
Plans provided as PDF files for full size printing, CNC cut files provided.
Zephyr, a 16 foot stepped Hydroplane. Reproduced from the original offsets and plans by A.A.Apel. I found this to be a very advanced design in that the stringers start at the transom and end at Frame 2. Other than its impressive deck lines, Zephyr lends itself to a variety of engine sizes through its generous beam. These tested plan have the corrected offsets incorporated into the lines so is suitable for full size construction without the need for correcting the lines and attempting to fair frames. Original offsets are notorious for errors as they were often measured up as a matter of record rather than used to build.
In brief, there are 16 frames including the transom, full length stringers, dual stepped keel set up, engine hatch assay and seat assay.
Construction plans included heights from base and a custom ladder style building jig.
Plans provided in PDF format for full size printing.
An absolute stunner by John Hacker from 1924. Faithfully reproduced with no alterations whatsoever. Very rare to find any reasonable replicas of this plan, good seating for 4 adults, forward to mid mounted engine, stringers set to suit most Mercruisers.
Made up of 12 frames and 11 floor timbers, engine hatch assembly, transom assembly and includes custom set up jig. Detailed seating arrangement, trimmers, cowlings and dash. Happy to aid any prospective builders in setting up shaft lines and hardware at no cost.
Plans provided as full size patterns in PDF format. Buyers can purchase and have the plans emailed directly to them or download from the web generated link after purchasing.
An absolute classic, Chris Craft 22 Utility 1950’s. For those unsure of the the difference between the Sportsman and the Utility, Woody Boater has a great story that explains everything. Many thanks to Antique Boat Shop for sharing images of their amazing work as always on Cynthia.
https://www.woodyboater.com/blog/2009/11/03/whats-a-chris-craft-u22/
The U22 is made up of 11 frames including the transom which is provided as a separate assay and positive location to the stringers. Big open open deck and with a rear bench, a mid mounted engine with that very distinctive engine box and that wonderful dashboard with the twin lines. The hull itself seems to be a softer riding version with slightly curved lower frames.The plans are comprehensive, they include all frames and floor timbers as full size plans, stringers, flooring, gussets, floor supports, stem, keel , windscreen and deck trim. A custom designed ladder style jig is supplied referencing off the stringers and positioning each frame in place.
Max beam planked is 87 3/4” or 2.2 m, overall length 22 feet.
Builders can contact us for engine configurations and shaft angles based on individual selection. Happy to provide this service free of charge.
Plans are in PDF format, 3D models included for easy part and location recognition.
Lorraine is a sleek 16 footer designed by J Hacker utilising a 3 cylinder 2 stroke Pierce- Budd motor of approximately 25 hp. A twin blade propeller of 16” and a pitch of 22” is said to have provided a top speed of 30 mph. Lorraine has a max beam of 56” or just over 4 1/2 feet. Buyers looking to install similar sized motors can email us for fitment and custom engine beds at no additional cost.
Plans include all frames and floor timbers, hatch assembly, transom assembly, all fully lofted and a building jig for ease of set up. Included are 2 3D files to aid in part recognition and can be measured off directly for checking. As with all our plans, Lorraine can be scaled up proportionally by changing the frame spacing’s. Any increase beyond 10% will need the plans scaled up proportionally during printing. Fully lofted files use ARCH E paper size, dimensioned assembly plans are all A3.
All plans provided as PDF files that must then be printed at 100%, full scale.
A Gold Cup winner designed by George Crouch.
One of the most satisfying vessels we have ever worked on. Designed in 1924, Bootlegger was always a single build, one off design. Babyface Nelson is a replica of this fine vessel and it is absolutely amazing, built by Bruce Hutchison, a dedicated enthusiast with an eye for beauty.
In brief, Baby Bootlegger was originally drawn with some 54 frame, spaced from 6 to 7 inches apart. It has a rear and forward cockpit, twin separate fuel tanks, a rear deck and plenty of detail. River Breeze is built directly off our plans.
Plans provided as full size PDF files for full size printing.