Hi there. I am in Australia and I am really keen to build a wooden paddleboard (about 16’ long) suitable for unlimited class. Is there anyone who knows where I can get plans (as opposed to a complete kit)? Also, if anyone has any building tips (weight of glassing etc) I would be keen for any help.
I don’t know if it would work for unlimited class but you could write, or email, Popular Mechanics Magazine. They can supply the original Tom Blake paddleboard plans that ran in their magazine long, long, ago…
You might have to modify the plans to get a 16’er too.
Eric J
Darryl,
I’m assuming that you want to make a board that will be competitive, right?
My suggestion would be to try to get in contact with one of the true masters such as George Downing, Joe Quigg or Dale Velzy.
Velzy, I believe, still makes them if your pockets are deep enough, and can probably be contacted through his board company in California.
Downing and Quigg are on Oahu. Try under Downing Hawaii or look up Joe’s son Gordon (also a shaper).
Be real respectful with these guys, explain what you want to do, and they just might help you out a little.
I saw some really nice Australian-made wooden paddleboards at Mike Eaton’s shop here in California. Maybe Mike can tell you where in Australia.