(Metric Measurement Version)
Eight Foot Kayak (for still water use only!!)
For the most recent information regarding the duckchaser, please visit the yahoo group. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/duckchaser/
Click here to download the plans and construction instructions. (Adobe PDF*)
Click here to download detailed instructions on rigging the duck chaser for sailing. (Adobe PDF*)
With thanks to the Palo Alto Scout Group of America - on who's design this is based. I recommend
downloading their file www.vhcbsa.org/camping/kayak.pdf to give background on construction.
The shape & size of the bulkhead/spreaders in the instructions is the result of considerable experimentation on my part. Any changes made to their dimensions have a profound effect on the final result. Likewise the spacing between the hull sides when the canvas is glued across the ends is also critical. If you feel you MUST increase carrying capacity by adjusting these - add the same amount to the centre of the bulkheads & the spacing or nothing will fit properly & the ply may well crack.
If building for smaller or younger paddlers it would be a good idea to go back to a smaller cockpit ie the same size as the original American design. Use their dimension bulkheads too. Just make the spacing between the hull when glueing the sides together 1/4" less ( needed because the hulls are shorter so the curves are greater)
Payment: I request the payment of a bottle of white wine for each vessel built using these plans by adults; youth
members of course are welcome to use the plans for free. For a copy of this on a CD, I will charge an additional
$10.00. Contact me by email at: maintann [at] stevennicholson.com
Have fun building & paddling,
Don Nicholson
* Click here to download the Adobe Acrobat PDF Reader
