With all of the frames steamed in it was time to fit the breast hooks, quarterknees and the inwales. This made the boat significanly stiffer and I was able to start making the floordboards. I went for fairly closely spaced boards that are easily removable so that stuff won’t easily slip down there and if it does it is easy to get. I also wanted to make sure that the floorboards were higher than most normal bilge water. Neither of these would have been possible if the floorboards were simply screwed to the frames.
Once I had finished the floorboards I had a datum from which to position the seats at the most comfortable height. You can see in the picutre above a mock up of the articulated coaming/washboard that will be a comfortable back support. And an nice wide seat when hiking out on the gunwale.
Finally after many many mockups and comsultation with the crew a height and depth for the seating was chosen. Now I just have to work out exactly how I’m going to build it. Me thinks it time for some linseed oiling = time to think.
If you would like to discuss having your own boat built, repaired or restored please don’t hesitate to contact me, Tiernan Roe, at +353 28 38973 or +353 86 1586937.
Roeboats, Ballydehob, Co. Cork, t:+353 (0)28 38973 m: +353 (0)86 158 69 37 e:roeboats@ymail.com