Re: I want a floating camper ?
Floating camper, thats an easy one. Take a look at designs by Phil Bolger (deceased recently) for a lot of camp cruisers, Both power and sail. There are "birdwatcher" designs all over, they provide safety for small children, shallow water sailing ability, and plenty of room. All plastic sheet sides make them almost unsinkable, since they can lay sideways without shipping a drop. Check out "Small Boats" annual, from Wooden Boat magazine . Each year they put out over 20 small boat sketch and build plans and great ideas for using the boats, with reviews from builders.
I built a garvey power boat with a removable cabin, and 50 hp OB, and used the "birdwatcher" walk through hatch ideas, to walk ashore dry footed. A good idea for most campers. These and other boats are available as plans, or also as finished new or used boats. The club I belong to is nationwide and can help, often with a courtesy cruise in your location. Try -- coots.org -- or contact me for more details and local to you clubs. Why tear up a good boat to get what you want, when with a bit of looking you will find one close to your ideal -- without losing any hope of reselling or trading if need be ?? Most "Coots" have several boats for different waters, and often build ones the later sell at good prices. We do boat shows, often we do get offers we can't refuse. I have usually four boats for different cruising grounds, and the wifes kayak !!
Happy Boat Hunting, Cal
