One of the priorities for any metal boat is insulation of the hull internally to stop condensation running down the inside of the hull, noise and transfer of water temperature through the hull to the interior.
Really like your comments on the forward cockpit. You talk about the compromise, 80/20. But I have good news for you, if you still have design input into your new boat, you should look at the Windelo enclosed forward cockpit. We have a Windelo 54 with the forward cockpit and it is amazing. Full protection from weather, full protection from the sun, full visibility for sail trimming, all gear such was winches and block are inside protected (less maintenance), large safe working area, clear access to the trampoline area, really a safe area for kids to come and join you, connected to the main salon area of the boat, and it required, you can close the doors.. My wife and I have just recently completed two Atlantide crossings over the last 6 months (9000 nm) and I wore only underwear no matter what the conditions were. I know this seems silly but it says a lot about the protection of the enclosed forward cockpit and the need for fowl weather gear. Anyway, hope you have time to look into it and would like to option on the concept(BTW we are Canadian as well).
I am a welder/fitter and worked 5 years on boatyard's so all you said about alloy is true but your starting with a new boat so that is a plus.. I am 72 with health issue's but hope I see the end of the new journey of new boat - I did 2 years solo coastal cruising and 2 years delivering other boats - Good luck
You know i found you guy's about a week ago and i'm watching videos for 2nd time. I have you guy's playing in back ground of my day. I just love you all.when i was a kid my grand parents owned a 40 foot choie lee yacht. The Black Duke.
Yes, weld inspection is important. I was captain of a new 70 foot Morelli and Melvin power cat used for touring. Twin 960 hp cats. Cruised nicely at 45 kts with 60 passengers. It was a displacement cat, sliced Through the water. Very seaworthy even a speeds. Wonderful boat………Design!…..until the welds started to let go. Then we had to condemn the vessel. Over 2 million dollars. Ouch! It was a builder in Alaska. This was 25 yrs ago.
Two sensible, intelligent SAILERS! You obviously have given your new boat a lot of thought, it sounds fantastic. You're excited! I'm excited and I'm not with you. God bless, sail safely and please, keep giving us your remarkable films.
I gave up years ago trying to explain the advantages of aluminium - it's similar to the frustration around the multihull advantage. MOST people don't know what they don't know; but they are more than willing to argue about it!
Love your thoughts on a live-aboard and really dug the fishing vids. And the missus has a beautiful girl-next-door quality that is very endearing. Gorgeous smile and bubbly attitude. The wife and I are digging the channel.
Massive fan of the forward cockpit. Don’t listen to the haters ;-) Sure you’ll get wet beating into wind when you need to make a change - but you’ll get wet outboard at the aft stern too. The many benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
What an exciting time. A new toy. Just remember "the only person that has to like the design or boat materials of the new boat is you" We are here for the ride and great video content, which got my vote in the International Cruising Awards. Keep up the great work and stay safe.
Aluminium goes with the chops - both NOT prominent in "most" of the world. Just type it, and auto-correct will illuminiate (😅) you! Still love you in spite of errant pronunskiation. Yes, Ashley, you MAY say whatever the heck YOU want, right Ben? ❤❤❤
So cool you're gonna have a new boat! excited for you can't wait myself lots of luck God-bless. ❤️ Love ya real long time Fan. Yrs. ( Beginning ) GOD-BLESS YOU AND BE WITH YOU ON YOUR JOURNEY AMEN 🙏🏻 ❤️ YOU BROTHER AND SISTER , ❤️ LOVE THE KIDS . TOO....
I sailed on Elsie, it was a great sailing boat even in light air. Love the forward cockpit. Although I would like a place to sit and stretch my legs out in the forward cockpit while on watch. Since you are going for shaft drives, make sure to put in thrust bearings, it will allow you'd have different kinds of engine mounts that really cut down on vibration and noise from your engines.
Exciting indeed. I am a Canadian maried to a Thai woman and for the past 5 years we have been building a fantastic Teack wood Thai style house. Chalange, error and succes make us more happy I would say. I love your idea and your vodeo. Go for your idea, do not look back and it will be gratifying. Smooth sail and happy construction. Cheers 🎉🎉
Cool this video just popped up in my feed. Having spent time with friends with a 30+ year old expedition ali mono (been everywhere and still in great shape) and other good friends with a Mumby we already had a good feel for sailing, living on and maintaining ali boats. We were in New Zealand in 17/18 summer and put some into ali cat research. Within a week or so we managed to get a great tour of Circa's yard who were doing the Dashew FPB motor yachts at their amazing facility AND then spend an afternoon with David De Villiers' house talking ali multihull design. Both very worthwhile experiences. Recently I got to have a wander over Dan's 52'er. Thats my photo you popped up in the vid taken from the top of ROAM's mast when we were on the hard next to Dan's boat. Where you are headed is without doubt going to be a great design and platform for adventure sailing and bluewater cruising. Epoxy vs Ali. Should we ever do another boat I'm still not decided but I dont think there is a wrong answer. Just subscribed and will be following along. Mick 🤙
Thank you for taking us along again. I've said it before. I would follow you two if all you did was show what it's like to go to the convenience store. You tell the story in a way that makes us feel like we are walking with you. But you keep making these decisions that make your story even more compelling. It's a whole new adventure every time we turn around and you meet it with that same desire to share not just the facts, but what it is like to be there, making the choices and doing the next thing. Nat Geo, and all the other adventure type shows, magazines, blogs, etc., could use a boost of what ever it is you guys have that makes your show feel like you bring "Over There" to "Over Here".
Interesting how four of my favourite vlogs (you guys, Matt & Jessica, the Wynns and ‘Tula’s Endless Summer’) are all in different phases of getting very different brand new catamarans. I can understand the different phases of excitement from “Can I do this?” to “Oh my God it’s finally happening!”. I myself ordered a new car months ago and have just got the thrilling news that it will be delivered over two months early... imagine what that’s like with something ten times more expensive which is transportation, home and livelihood all rolled into one! So keep it coming, and keep us updated; Teach Willa to edit if you must (even if that means a few too many shots of an inanimate stuffed rabbit lying on the floor).
I absolutely love the forward cockpit. Can''t imagine going back to anything else. Sometimes water over the bow happens, but I'm usually inside then. You can sail from inside. This is better than an aft cockpit where you are looking over the cabin top, always getting wind from the side and always out in the elements. Last passage, we only went to forward cockpit occasionally, and mostly because we *Wanted to hang out there*. Also, I love it every time you say "aluminium". No need to use the american pronunciation. Excited to follow this build with you. Wish it could be done in 6 months, LOL!!
@@SailingNahoa I posted some details on tour patreon and an invite to come sail. I’m on there under the same name. Seems my youtube replies don’t show up.
@@SailingNahoa You'll love the forward cockpit. Tip - make sure you have a table & chairs that fit out there for meals. You'll love the freedom to pick! The Elcie is a bit bigger, but it only had water in the forward cockpit once or twice I believe they said, and it drained as designed super fast. David is a great designer.
I did 4 world cruises on cruise ships. I have to say all 4 been same exciting than the first. Each world cruise has their own challenges and high and lows. Have a good time!
there is another mature couple just completed construction of a 54-foot custom monohull design with welding completed on both sides of the weld points and they did cover some of the methods of reduction of electrolysis effect by means of insulating the engine and shafts using rubber grommets, coating the hull that is in contact with the ocean in fibreglass (unsure whether just using resin-based paints). One area that most miss is in the stainless-steel rigging cables and fittings. Aluminum mast to aluminium deck. Plenty of photos around of the effect of electrolysis on the aluminium masts even on fibreglass vessels. You may would consider the insulating the bolt fittings
When you guys started your circumnavigation I recall Ashley saying “we don’t know what is going to happen.” Here we are on the final stretch with you and 2 kids(!) working on getting an explorer cat. What a journey! Greetings from Vancouver!
In an aluminum boat, all of your electrical should be in conduit to keep it off the metal parts of the boat (PVC) and where possible separate coverings of clumps of like wiring to keep them separated from other wiring within the conduit which will help keep down the random electromagnetic fields from being generated. Z(kind of like Cat 6 ethernet cable with twisted pairs to discourage random field generated. Just a thought.
Front cockpit is excellent. Well proven on Chris White's excellent boats. Shortest lines, safest location, simplest controls, best visibility forward, good view of sails, etc. Aluminum is also excellent. Much more environmentally friendly than plastic. Greatly looking forward to build videos. Subscribed. (Surprised I wasn't before, but an Aluminum cat is the kicker. That makes it a must see.) P.S. Americans say "al-oo-min-um". Brits and I guess Canadians say "al-you-min-ee-um". Kiwis and Ozzies being mostly British probably say the latter.
So firstly you are just rocking the mutton chops! LOL The Nahoa 55 looks like it will be an awesome piece of kit and kudos for having the confidence not just selecting an off the peg design and your naval architect has the background to definitely get the job done. Aluminum has so many positive aspects to its use and Ben will be able to add another skill to his repertoire by learning to weld it just in case. I have to admit I've never looked at a fwd cockpit and thought "I'd love one of those" but actually the way you've logically explained why it works makes utter sense, esp if Ashley has it in writing Ben does the sail changes if the weather is foul! The protected shaft drives also make such sense and I know you are optimising for your needs but the internal layouts seen so far look spot on for anybody cruising in general with sensible compromises between comfort and speed at any cost. I also really appreciate that maintainability etc are high on the agenda as when you see some yachts which are all bells and whistles I am from a background of and "what happens when the toys fail, what am I left with?" The only minor negative which will need thought is how to undertake Med mooring two handed but sure there's a workaround. Anyway it is all in all super exciting and, in the meantime, looking forward to you completing your 1st circumnavigation. Fair winds and a following sea.
I think the front cockpit is a great idea, safety-wise and comfort-wise. Though you do potentially give up some usable space. I'm looking forward to seeing how this works out.
Very Exciting, Love the new boat. Two questions have you considered a wing on the mini keel (HH 44 Wynns) allegedly will point a couple of degrees better (but perhaps more drag?? Second the cockpit on the Outremer 55 is 👍👍 if there was no swim platform could the transom go back 500mm (life raft could still be external under the seat But I think you have nailed it, it’s an suv not a Ferrari 👍👍👍👍👍👍 Go anywhere
The use of VR to assess the design is great, RAN sailing are using it to review and amend the interior of their timber homebuild. The great thing about aluminium is the flexibility to alter the interior. Distant Shores TV are sharing their aluminium monohull construction in the Netherlands, an amazing process.
Had to watch this 3 times, because the first 2 times my eyes just couldn't get past Ben's 'chops'! Not a fan of them tbh! Congrats on your soon-to-be new boat. With everything you've gone through with fixing this boat, you deserve it.
That looks to be an awesome build. Love the design. Tons of old aluminum fishing boats and skiffs in the fishing fleets of the world. Yes, electrolysis is an issue. But, religiously maintain your sacrificial anodes, keep your electrical system in good repair and don't mix metals in your fittings and it is kept to a non-issue. Oh, get some zinc fish for when you're in a harbor and the lousy harbor wiring wants to eat things at a stupid rate.
Very exciting, and so very important to get this right!! I'm not a boat builder but I'm a sailor, so to have the opportunity to build to your specifications and your family needs is priceless! Good luck guys!!
Please do yourselves a huge justice, keep in contact with John and Eli, Barefoots Drs Sailing, For honest, logical and knowledgeable advice when building a new Aluminium Catamaran. This boat will be ur forever home, the kids will thrive, and the both of u, will be at peace in both body and mind to thourally enjoy the lifestyle u have chosen. Congratulations on ur decision to go aluminium and the fun of being able to design what U actually want. I'm So very happy for u all. Xx🌈🇨🇦🇦🇺😛
@8:21 I would suggest you move the spinnaker blocks aft and run the sheets up the stanchion area (vs going inboard first) as you will want the ability to fly a bigger Asym. The Staysail track also looks too short for reaching, which you might do with both a Staysail and a Reacher up in light air. The mainsheet traveler track can be straight to save you some money and be stronger structurally. Consider a rear gutter on the aft of the coachroof too (so you don't get water coming out of the sail bag and onto your dingy). Layout inside looks great, except maybe look for more clothing storage (it's a bit small and I'd swap the makeup desk for drawers, for example). And maybe consider a Webasto sunroof so you can see the sail plan from the helm. Just some thoughts to consider - I wish you luck!
It's interesting what different channels are doing. You and Sailing Into Freedom are building aluminum cats. The Wynn's are getting a HH44 fiberglass and carbon fiber cat and La Vagabond is maybe getting a trimaran if the manufacturer can stop it with the delays. Fun times.
We own three aluminum boats from 40-50 feet. Taken care of properly it is a fantastic hull material. If you care to go to colder ice infested waters you will sleep better knowing you have a thick aluminum hull between you and ice.
Ben, you're rocking those Elvis sideburns! Together, with your shared experiences and individual tastes, talents, skills and abilities, you'll end up with the perfect catamaran for YOU. Great good luck, and remember to always carry 75 kilos of zincs with you, just in case!
Lol…the lighter the vessel, the more Ashley can load into it. I would guess that you have been in communication with Paul and Sherryl from "Distant Shores"? They are currently building an Aluminum expedition monohull in the Netherlands.
Hey you two… I’m super happy for you and I’m glad that you’ve got plans for your dream boat. It’s saddening to hear that so many people want to project their opinions on to you and your decisions. “Life” is full of personal decisions and the diversity of everyone’s life choices is what makes our world interesting and exciting. If everyone, and every boat, were the same, life would be very boring. So… Good on ya! I’m super excited to hear/learn more about your boat as time passes. Thank you for sharing as I will definitely listen carefully and I’m sure your choices will impact MY decisions on my next boat purchase. ❤
The best thing about alu boats is that it does not burn! Fiberglass etc. is like a torch and very hard to put out. In a few minutes they are gone and so may you be!
Have you guys thought about an enclosed forward cockpit similar to a Windelow? My wife and I have been looking at different boats and designs and have decided that we really like the center cockpit and a lot of the safety features that can come from it.
Love the chops...makes you a true sailor! I really enjoy your content especially the fish and my daughter loves your kiddos! Makes for good family watching! Thanks and good luck!
The electralysis issue cannot be overemphasized. I was in the navy 50 yrs ago. I worked on a missile launcher system which was covered with aluminum panels. Since it was a nuke system, we had to post guards and restrict access to our forward 5" cannon when we pulled the panels to do maintenance on the launcher. In short, the gunners could not reach the cannon on deck to man it while we did maintenance. We were oncall on the gunline in Vietnam, so for months we were barred from performing maintenance at sea while on the gunline because it took too long to secure the launcher when we'd get the call to fire the 5" cannon. We were on the gunline 55 days, in port for 5 days, and back on the gunline another 53 days, 5 days in port, and 48 more days at sea before departing for Hawaii. That's 166 days total. Over 15,000 rounds of 5" fired on the gunline. By the end of that time, I could literally poke holes in the aluminum panels with my bare fingers. It's amazing how quickly the sea, salt air, and sun can take extreme effect on aluminum. The panels were not bare AL. They were painted both inside and outside with a primer and battleship gray paint. Std navy issue paints which I presume was military grade specifically for such applications. We were able to set security and work on the system only enroute to and from those port calls. We scrubbed them and repainted the panels enroute on at least one of those port calls. I don't recall which one but I know it happened because I had to crawl inside the launch tubes and personally do the work while underway. To do that work, we'd unload the missile, do the work, and reload the missile. tube by tube. When we returned to Pearl Harbor, we replaced all the AL lower panels and all the exterior panels on the launch tubes - 8 tubes in a 2x4 array. In your situation, I would plan to do lots of freshwater washdowns regularly while underway with an aluminum craft. Perhaps professionally applied color vinyl coatings on the craft sidewalls? BTW, I don't comment much but have followed you for at least 6 years and viewed all your videos. You've learned a lot and taught us a lot. Keep up the great work! Ashley - great work on the new interior design. Looks fresh and much more elegant!😁 If you're ever passing through Las Vegas, let me know in advance. I know the city quite well and I'd love to treat the 4 of you to a great meal and a fun time.
Just like brake dust accelerating the rusting of my (poorly designed) Chevy wheel-speed sensing magnets...i'm sure the powder snow of different metals left from those 5" barrels was at play. Cheers and thanks! 🍻
I would love to see the original wording that Ashley had... I think Ben is one of the most wonderful writers I have ever heard... Your words have inspired me to write better. I am still 4 or 5 books from thinking about retiring to a boat but love that you guys went through the comments. I had a blast reading them after the previous video myself. I didn't even know that you could get an aluminum catamaran.
Happy Father's Day ❤️ Que tigre 😂😂your sideburns and some dippity Do in your hair. I'm excited to be following your build. If you put copper pennies in a bottom of an aluminum boat 😢. Oh yeah I'm from Great Central Lake but live in the Caribbean.
THANK YOU. I too, was thinking about the electrolysis issue. The answer I have not been able to find, I think the fact I am in Colorado with zero salt water, is the reason. MIGHT o b e be able to use a rubberized type of lining, before the full interior is built, be used to isolate the interior electrical? You spoke of three 3D rendering, I am one that am excited to see the storage possibilities!!! I am so very happy that, for now, you will be staying on Nahoa. Please, keep talking the tech tips some of us may not be thinking about!!! I LOVE the contrast in the written "dream" of what the boat should be. Ashley, more comfy and livable, Ben, fixable with ease!! All great ideas!!! Merlin
You’ve worked hard and endured a lot. Well deserving of a new boat to spoil yourselves. Excited to watch the journey. On the other side of the coin, it’ll be a great opportunity for the family to take a break, enjoy visits with loved ones, and for that well needed time to take care of yourselves, Willa and Bodhi.
I’m thrilled & genuinely wish you guys much success on this next big adventure🌱 You’re taking on a substantial load & good for you, I applaud this Canadian spirit. For what it’s worth ... over thirty years ago I was introduced to a design/build maxim, or general truth - which in my experience, has largely held true. Price-Quality-Speed ... Realistically, we can only choose or expect to achieve 2 of these outcomes, something always gives - any 2 - but the other is left behind. Something to think about. 🌱Again, kind wishes for and outstanding build🙂
I applaud your commitment to remain sailing in a new boat. Aluminum is well understood in the maritime industry and those that think it's inferior have a bias. Looking forward to how this build proceeds.
Hi - we’ve been following you fellow Canadians for a while and you’ve provided great inspiration for us as we pursue our own sailing dreams and dreamboat build. We whole heartedly agree with your assessment of the forward cockpit as we will have one on our Kinetic 54 build. And yeah man… you’re starting to look like Elvis! Keep up the great work!
I have an aluminium sailboat (monohull) and are mostly sailing in the high latitudes (now actually in Svalbard). I am really excited about your next boat and think you are making a great choice! I would really recommend to insulate the boat, as it keeps the boat warmer/colder in cold/warm climate. It also keeps the noise lower inside. (Insulating after the boat is built is also really hard.) Good luck with the whole process!
Insulation sounds like a terrific idea, for both reasons mentioned. Without the insulation, I assume aluminum would be a bit tinnier sounding than glass/ carbon fibre.
What will the dry weight end up being? You should reconsider using dagger boards. Aluminum is the best and that's why I'm going to build the new Tim Mumby design.
One other point about Aluminum I've seen missed is stress cracking! It's a huge problem the U.S Navy ran into with the Littoral combat ships. It also becomes a concern with aircraft as they age. I don't think I have to tell you how abusive an environment the ocean can be! I am not bah humbugging the idea but saying proceed with caution and ensure the right grades and thickness of aluminum is chosen. With aluminum welding its different than with steel. The areas to be welded have to be well prepped. If not, then that is another area where cracking and failure can become a problem. Another area you may wish to consider is foam filling to make the vessel unsinkable. Blue skies and smooth sailing for you and your family.
My company built one of the fastest superyachts from Aluminium 23 years ago and it is an amazing vessel today. I will be interested in watching the build it's an exciting project. Shame you lost the bet with those sideburns lol.
There is another DIY sailing channel who had their own brush with Electrolysis and lost both sail drive legs. This was in spite of anodes plus additional ones they added. The thing was they had someone clean the hulls and check things out then about 6 weeks later after another check they were toast and they had to replace both legs.
I don't do boats, I've never had the opportunity "yet" but listening to the beginning where you both mentioned different things, I think you both work well together. because Ben, you do your stuff like motors, electrical, sails, ropes etc and know a better solution, I can see it in you, your visualising a better easier run of it.. and Ashley can visualise the living space.. you both are very experienced and learning not just shortcuts but seeing a better way and easier way to build the boat for comfort, speed and durability.. what a new exciting adventure your both on and thank you for sharing this at this early stage, people will put in their 2 cents with in in their opinions but you two are experienced and have lots of information and learning experience.. your not new to this and people can learn from you as you learn from the older skippers.. I don't think every day is the same, different weather, different seasons, different every day but you don't just adapt, you both take on board this fact and deal with it accordingly. I wish you enough ✨
I have worked with fiberglass for years including building a couple of airplanes out of it. I understand the differedt glasses and am comfortable working with it. I also built a car out of aluminum and took a 6 week welding course to get certified TIG welding aluminum and other metals to spec. I feel comfortable working with aluminum., Stainless steel, and others. You can get a very small but powerful TIG welder very reasonably priced and run it off your boat power system and be able to repair and even fabricate parts for your boat. Just as easy as repairing fiberglass and much cleaner. Just a comment.
@@SailingNahoa Sounds like you will have plenty of time to learn. Next time youi go home for a break, you might look into a local junior college or trade school and take a short course on TIG welding aluminum. It could be a life saving skill and best learned from a professional.
You guys are really on to something. Even the burns. I would drop the chop and keep some length. This Aluminum cat will be a game changer in the industry. Love it!
You are very sensible, intelligent SAILERS, and I really enjoy following your travels. You obviously have given your new boat a lot of thought, but the muttonchops sank years ago!
I look forward to seeing how it functions for y’all and it’s super cool (excuse the term) that it’s a punch out build… Always thought it was So awesome my friends grandfather had a wooden boat he was building
FWIW-(Electricity and aluminum) Made me think of the time I was talking to a guy that worked for Alcan and built pontoons they got a call from someone saying there pontoons were continually producing bubbles.....turned out someone has made a mistake in the wiring and when plugged into shore-power the pontoons were electrically charged and would have dissolved in short order had it not been fixed
Congrats! Clever plan. Design your boat, presumably get it built for free on account of a full book of orders, or take a royalty on all future builds to payoff your boat. You can only do this because of your brand and all the work you’ve put over the years. Go for the forward cockpit!
1st. congrats on build it is big desition... and many good videos...Second what you are building is called blue water boat and reason is mathematical..I know because I wantet to build katamaran 2..however My goal is expedition and that require safety.. The thing(klasefajd) will be in aluminijum 2 :). Again very proud of you 2 for that desition..
![ตีสิบเดย์ [FULL] | เปิดใจ "อาจารย์ เบียร์ ฅนตื่นธรรม" นักสนทนาธรรมสายดุดัน!](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/vqaBI_mnoDk/mqdefault.jpg)
We lived on a steel-hulled boat from 1978-1992. One obvious advantage of steel over aluminum is it's a lot easier to pronounce... LOL
One of the priorities for any metal boat is insulation of the hull internally to stop condensation running down the inside of the hull, noise and transfer of water temperature through the hull to the interior.
Really like your comments on the forward cockpit. You talk about the compromise, 80/20. But I have good news for you, if you still have design input into your new boat, you should look at the Windelo enclosed forward cockpit. We have a Windelo 54 with the forward cockpit and it is amazing. Full protection from weather, full protection from the sun, full visibility for sail trimming, all gear such was winches and block are inside protected (less maintenance), large safe working area, clear access to the trampoline area, really a safe area for kids to come and join you, connected to the main salon area of the boat, and it required, you can close the doors.. My wife and I have just recently completed two Atlantide crossings over the last 6 months (9000 nm) and I wore only underwear no matter what the conditions were. I know this seems silly but it says a lot about the protection of the enclosed forward cockpit and the need for fowl weather gear. Anyway, hope you have time to look into it and would like to option on the concept(BTW we are Canadian as well).
I am a welder/fitter and worked 5 years on boatyard's so all you said about alloy is true but your starting with a new boat so that is a plus.. I am 72 with health issue's but hope I see the end of the new journey of new boat - I did 2 years solo coastal cruising and 2 years delivering other boats - Good luck
You know i found you guy's about a week ago and i'm watching videos for 2nd time. I have you guy's playing in back ground of my day. I just love you all.when i was a kid my grand parents owned a 40 foot choie lee yacht. The Black Duke.
Yes, weld inspection is important. I was captain of a new 70 foot Morelli and Melvin power cat used for touring. Twin 960 hp cats. Cruised nicely at 45 kts with 60 passengers. It was a displacement cat, sliced Through the water. Very seaworthy even a speeds. Wonderful boat………Design!…..until the welds started to let go. Then we had to condemn the vessel. Over 2 million dollars. Ouch! It was a builder in Alaska. This was 25 yrs ago.
Two sensible, intelligent SAILERS! You obviously have given your new boat a lot of thought, it sounds fantastic. You're excited! I'm excited and I'm not with you. God bless, sail safely and please, keep giving us your remarkable films.
I gave up years ago trying to explain the advantages of aluminium - it's similar to the frustration around the multihull advantage.
MOST people don't know what they don't know; but they are more than willing to argue about it!
Well said, especially the argue bit
Love your thoughts on a live-aboard and really dug the fishing vids. And the missus has a beautiful girl-next-door quality that is very endearing. Gorgeous smile and bubbly attitude. The wife and I are digging the channel.
From someone who was totally against a centre cockpit, your rational behind the decision makes complete sense!!
Massive fan of the forward cockpit. Don’t listen to the haters ;-) Sure you’ll get wet beating into wind when you need to make a change - but you’ll get wet outboard at the aft stern too.
The many benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
What an exciting time. A new toy. Just remember "the only person that has to like the design or boat materials of the new boat is you" We are here for the ride and great video content, which got my vote in the International Cruising Awards. Keep up the great work and stay safe.
To heck with the naysayers. Rock on and all the best with the project. Hey Ben, the burns rock.
Aluminium goes with the chops - both NOT prominent in "most" of the world. Just type it, and auto-correct will illuminiate (😅) you! Still love you in spite of errant pronunskiation. Yes, Ashley, you MAY say whatever the heck YOU want, right Ben? ❤❤❤
So cool you're gonna have a new boat! excited for you can't wait myself lots of luck God-bless.
❤️ Love ya real long time Fan. Yrs. ( Beginning )
GOD-BLESS YOU
AND BE WITH YOU ON YOUR JOURNEY AMEN 🙏🏻 ❤️ YOU BROTHER AND SISTER , ❤️ LOVE THE KIDS . TOO....
I sailed on Elsie, it was a great sailing boat even in light air. Love the forward cockpit. Although I would like a place to sit and stretch my legs out in the forward cockpit while on watch.
Since you are going for shaft drives, make sure to put in thrust bearings, it will allow you'd have different kinds of engine mounts that really cut down on vibration and noise from your engines.
Exciting indeed. I am a Canadian maried to a Thai woman and for the past 5 years we have been building a fantastic Teack wood Thai style house. Chalange, error and succes make us more happy I would say. I love your idea and your vodeo. Go for your idea, do not look back and it will be gratifying. Smooth sail and happy construction. Cheers 🎉🎉
Cool this video just popped up in my feed.
Having spent time with friends with a 30+ year old expedition ali mono (been everywhere and still in great shape) and other good friends with a Mumby we already had a good feel for sailing, living on and maintaining ali boats.
We were in New Zealand in 17/18 summer and put some into ali cat research.
Within a week or so we managed to get a great tour of Circa's yard who were doing the Dashew FPB motor yachts at their amazing facility AND then spend an afternoon with David De Villiers' house talking ali multihull design. Both very worthwhile experiences.
Recently I got to have a wander over Dan's 52'er. Thats my photo you popped up in the vid taken from the top of ROAM's mast when we were on the hard next to Dan's boat.
Where you are headed is without doubt going to be a great design and platform for adventure sailing and bluewater cruising.
Epoxy vs Ali. Should we ever do another boat I'm still not decided but I dont think there is a wrong answer.
Just subscribed and will be following along.
Mick 🤙
Thank you for taking us along again.
I've said it before. I would follow you two if all you did was show what it's like to go to the convenience store. You tell the story in a way that makes us feel like we are walking with you.
But you keep making these decisions that make your story even more compelling. It's a whole new adventure every time we turn around and you meet it with that same desire to share not just the facts, but what it is like to be there, making the choices and doing the next thing.
Nat Geo, and all the other adventure type shows, magazines, blogs, etc., could use a boost of what ever it is you guys have that makes your show feel like you bring "Over There" to "Over Here".
Agree whole heartedly with your comment @Rockingoodman.
Interesting how four of my favourite vlogs (you guys, Matt & Jessica, the Wynns and ‘Tula’s Endless Summer’) are all in different phases of getting very different brand new catamarans. I can understand the different phases of excitement from “Can I do this?” to “Oh my God it’s finally happening!”. I myself ordered a new car months ago and have just got the thrilling news that it will be delivered over two months early... imagine what that’s like with something ten times more expensive which is transportation, home and livelihood all rolled into one! So keep it coming, and keep us updated; Teach Willa to edit if you must (even if that means a few too many shots of an inanimate stuffed rabbit lying on the floor).
Amazing news………super excited for you all !
And here I am, now planning to build a Nahoa 55 someday.
I absolutely love the forward cockpit. Can''t imagine going back to anything else. Sometimes water over the bow happens, but I'm usually inside then. You can sail from inside. This is better than an aft cockpit where you are looking over the cabin top, always getting wind from the side and always out in the elements. Last passage, we only went to forward cockpit occasionally, and mostly because we *Wanted to hang out there*.
Also, I love it every time you say "aluminium". No need to use the american pronunciation. Excited to follow this build with you. Wish it could be done in 6 months, LOL!!
Awesome. What kind of boat where/are you sailing on that has a forward cockpit? Who knows, this build might be pretty quick. Not 6 months tho!
@@SailingNahoa I posted some details on tour patreon and an invite to come sail. I’m on there under the same name. Seems my youtube replies don’t show up.
@@SailingNahoa You'll love the forward cockpit. Tip - make sure you have a table & chairs that fit out there for meals. You'll love the freedom to pick! The Elcie is a bit bigger, but it only had water in the forward cockpit once or twice I believe they said, and it drained as designed super fast. David is a great designer.
Looks amazing. Electrolysis is what always scares me particularly at docks. I wish you all the best. You are amazing.
I did 4 world cruises on cruise ships. I have to say all 4 been same exciting than the first. Each world cruise has their own challenges and high and lows. Have a good time!
Happy Father's day Ben. Good luck with ALL the decisions.
there is another mature couple just completed construction of a 54-foot custom monohull design with welding completed on both sides of the weld points and they did cover some of the methods of reduction of electrolysis effect by means of insulating the engine and shafts using rubber grommets, coating the hull that is in contact with the ocean in fibreglass (unsure whether just using resin-based paints). One area that most miss is in the stainless-steel rigging cables and fittings. Aluminum mast to aluminium deck. Plenty of photos around of the effect of electrolysis on the aluminium masts even on fibreglass vessels. You may would consider the insulating the bolt fittings
When you guys started your circumnavigation I recall Ashley saying “we don’t know what is going to happen.” Here we are on the final stretch with you and 2 kids(!) working on getting an explorer cat. What a journey! Greetings from Vancouver!
In an aluminum boat, all of your electrical should be in conduit to keep it off the metal parts of the boat (PVC) and where possible separate coverings of clumps of like wiring to keep them separated from other wiring within the conduit which will help keep down the random electromagnetic fields from being generated. Z(kind of like Cat 6 ethernet cable with twisted pairs to discourage random field generated. Just a thought.
Front cockpit is excellent. Well proven on Chris White's excellent boats. Shortest lines, safest location, simplest controls, best visibility forward, good view of sails, etc.
Aluminum is also excellent. Much more environmentally friendly than plastic.
Greatly looking forward to build videos. Subscribed. (Surprised I wasn't before, but an Aluminum cat is the kicker. That makes it a must see.)
P.S. Americans say "al-oo-min-um". Brits and I guess Canadians say "al-you-min-ee-um". Kiwis and Ozzies being mostly British probably say the latter.
So firstly you are just rocking the mutton chops! LOL The Nahoa 55 looks like it will be an awesome piece of kit and kudos for having the confidence not just selecting an off the peg design and your naval architect has the background to definitely get the job done. Aluminum has so many positive aspects to its use and Ben will be able to add another skill to his repertoire by learning to weld it just in case. I have to admit I've never looked at a fwd cockpit and thought "I'd love one of those" but actually the way you've logically explained why it works makes utter sense, esp if Ashley has it in writing Ben does the sail changes if the weather is foul! The protected shaft drives also make such sense and I know you are optimising for your needs but the internal layouts seen so far look spot on for anybody cruising in general with sensible compromises between comfort and speed at any cost. I also really appreciate that maintainability etc are high on the agenda as when you see some yachts which are all bells and whistles I am from a background of and "what happens when the toys fail, what am I left with?" The only minor negative which will need thought is how to undertake Med mooring two handed but sure there's a workaround. Anyway it is all in all super exciting and, in the meantime, looking forward to you completing your 1st circumnavigation. Fair winds and a following sea.
I think the front cockpit is a great idea, safety-wise and comfort-wise. Though you do potentially give up some usable space. I'm looking forward to seeing how this works out.
Very Exciting, Love the new boat. Two questions have you considered a wing on the mini keel (HH 44 Wynns) allegedly will point a couple of degrees better (but perhaps more drag??
Second the cockpit on the Outremer 55 is 👍👍 if there was no swim platform could the transom go back 500mm (life raft could still be external under the seat
But I think you have nailed it, it’s an suv not a Ferrari 👍👍👍👍👍👍
Go anywhere
Facial hair changes are amazing im digging it .be you Ben!!!✌🏼💗😊⛵
Ben & Ashley your amazing ppl an I am excited for your future!! The thought put into your future is exciting...Its nice to catch up!!✌🏼💗😊⛵
You are definitely making that Patreon membership worthwhile on this crossing! It's so nice to follow along!
The use of VR to assess the design is great, RAN sailing are using it to review and amend the interior of their timber homebuild. The great thing about aluminium is the flexibility to alter the interior. Distant Shores TV are sharing their aluminium monohull construction in the Netherlands, an amazing process.
Had to watch this 3 times, because the first 2 times my eyes just couldn't get past Ben's 'chops'! Not a fan of them tbh! Congrats on your soon-to-be new boat. With everything you've gone through with fixing this boat, you deserve it.
That looks to be an awesome build. Love the design. Tons of old aluminum fishing boats and skiffs in the fishing fleets of the world. Yes, electrolysis is an issue. But, religiously maintain your sacrificial anodes, keep your electrical system in good repair and don't mix metals in your fittings and it is kept to a non-issue. Oh, get some zinc fish for when you're in a harbor and the lousy harbor wiring wants to eat things at a stupid rate.
Very exciting, and so very important to get this right!!
I'm not a boat builder but I'm a sailor, so to have the opportunity to build to your specifications and your family needs is priceless!
Good luck guys!!
Ben...love the chops!
Well thank you. You're one of the first positive reactions! haha.
Please do yourselves a huge justice, keep in contact with John and Eli, Barefoots Drs Sailing, For honest, logical and knowledgeable advice when building a new Aluminium Catamaran. This boat will be ur forever home, the kids will thrive, and the both of u, will be at peace in both body and mind to thourally enjoy the lifestyle u have chosen. Congratulations on ur decision to go aluminium and the fun of being able to design what U actually want. I'm So very happy for u all. Xx🌈🇨🇦🇦🇺😛
Yaaay my favorite sailing channel!
@8:21 I would suggest you move the spinnaker blocks aft and run the sheets up the stanchion area (vs going inboard first) as you will want the ability to fly a bigger Asym. The Staysail track also looks too short for reaching, which you might do with both a Staysail and a Reacher up in light air. The mainsheet traveler track can be straight to save you some money and be stronger structurally. Consider a rear gutter on the aft of the coachroof too (so you don't get water coming out of the sail bag and onto your dingy). Layout inside looks great, except maybe look for more clothing storage (it's a bit small and I'd swap the makeup desk for drawers, for example). And maybe consider a Webasto sunroof so you can see the sail plan from the helm. Just some thoughts to consider - I wish you luck!
After St. Helena you have to go to Ascension Island...you have to.
Those Chops will be epic when Nahoa completes the circumnavigation! An give Ashley time to warm up to them 😉
It's interesting what different channels are doing. You and Sailing Into Freedom are building aluminum cats. The Wynn's are getting a HH44 fiberglass and carbon fiber cat and La Vagabond is maybe getting a trimaran if the manufacturer can stop it with the delays. Fun times.
Good luck on your new build.. HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!! :0)
We own three aluminum boats from 40-50 feet. Taken care of properly it is a fantastic hull material. If you care to go to colder ice infested waters you will sleep better knowing you have a thick aluminum hull between you and ice.
Ben, you're rocking those Elvis sideburns!
Together, with your shared experiences and individual tastes, talents, skills and abilities, you'll end up with the perfect catamaran for YOU.
Great good luck, and remember to always carry 75 kilos of zincs with you, just in case!
Lol…the lighter the vessel, the more Ashley can load into it. I would guess that you have been in communication with Paul and Sherryl from "Distant Shores"? They are currently building an Aluminum expedition monohull in the Netherlands.
Hey you two… I’m super happy for you and I’m glad that you’ve got plans for your dream boat. It’s saddening to hear that so many people want to project their opinions on to you and your decisions. “Life” is full of personal decisions and the diversity of everyone’s life choices is what makes our world interesting and exciting. If everyone, and every boat, were the same, life would be very boring. So… Good on ya! I’m super excited to hear/learn more about your boat as time passes. Thank you for sharing as I will definitely listen carefully and I’m sure your choices will impact MY decisions on my next boat purchase. ❤
Sideboards!? Scotland approves ✊🏻🏴😊
Happy Fathers Day Ben!!!!
Building to Lloyds. What a great decision. Making a boat brand, great decision. You guys have planed this perfectly.
The best thing about alu boats is that it does not burn! Fiberglass etc. is like a torch and very hard to put out. In a few minutes they are gone and so may you be!
Excited to see where & how the build goes. 🎉
Love following you two.😊
Have you guys thought about an enclosed forward cockpit similar to a Windelow? My wife and I have been looking at different boats and designs and have decided that we really like the center cockpit and a lot of the safety features that can come from it.
Love the chops...makes you a true sailor! I really enjoy your content especially the fish and my daughter loves your kiddos! Makes for good family watching! Thanks and good luck!
Groovy Pork chops Ben - I like it - You should play Green Onions on your next intro
The electralysis issue cannot be overemphasized. I was in the navy 50 yrs ago. I worked on a missile launcher system which was covered with aluminum panels. Since it was a nuke system, we had to post guards and restrict access to our forward 5" cannon when we pulled the panels to do maintenance on the launcher. In short, the gunners could not reach the cannon on deck to man it while we did maintenance.
We were oncall on the gunline in Vietnam, so for months we were barred from performing maintenance at sea while on the gunline because it took too long to secure the launcher when we'd get the call to fire the 5" cannon. We were on the gunline 55 days, in port for 5 days, and back on the gunline another 53 days, 5 days in port, and 48 more days at sea before departing for Hawaii. That's 166 days total. Over 15,000 rounds of 5" fired on the gunline. By the end of that time, I could literally poke holes in the aluminum panels with my bare fingers. It's amazing how quickly the sea, salt air, and sun can take extreme effect on aluminum.
The panels were not bare AL. They were painted both inside and outside with a primer and battleship gray paint. Std navy issue paints which I presume was military grade specifically for such applications. We were able to set security and work on the system only enroute to and from those port calls. We scrubbed them and repainted the panels enroute on at least one of those port calls. I don't recall which one but I know it happened because I had to crawl inside the launch tubes and personally do the work while underway. To do that work, we'd unload the missile, do the work, and reload the missile. tube by tube.
When we returned to Pearl Harbor, we replaced all the AL lower panels and all the exterior panels on the launch tubes - 8 tubes in a 2x4 array.
In your situation, I would plan to do lots of freshwater washdowns regularly while underway with an aluminum craft. Perhaps professionally applied color vinyl coatings on the craft sidewalls?
BTW, I don't comment much but have followed you for at least 6 years and viewed all your videos. You've learned a lot and taught us a lot. Keep up the great work!
Ashley - great work on the new interior design. Looks fresh and much more elegant!😁
If you're ever passing through Las Vegas, let me know in advance. I know the city quite well and I'd love to treat the 4 of you to a great meal and a fun time.
Just like brake dust accelerating the rusting of my (poorly designed) Chevy wheel-speed sensing magnets...i'm sure the powder snow of different metals left from those 5" barrels was at play. Cheers and thanks! 🍻
I would love to see the original wording that Ashley had... I think Ben is one of the most wonderful writers I have ever heard... Your words have inspired me to write better. I am still 4 or 5 books from thinking about retiring to a boat but love that you guys went through the comments. I had a blast reading them after the previous video myself. I didn't even know that you could get an aluminum catamaran.
Happy Father's Day ❤️ Que tigre 😂😂your sideburns and some dippity Do in your hair. I'm excited to be following your build. If you put copper pennies in a bottom of an aluminum boat 😢. Oh yeah I'm from Great Central Lake but live in the Caribbean.
THANK YOU. I too, was thinking about the electrolysis issue. The answer I have not been able to find, I think the fact I am in Colorado with zero salt water, is the reason. MIGHT o b e be able to use a rubberized type of lining, before the full interior is built, be used to isolate the interior electrical? You spoke of three 3D rendering, I am one that am excited to see the storage possibilities!!!
I am so very happy that, for now, you will be staying on Nahoa. Please, keep talking the tech tips some of us may not be thinking about!!!
I LOVE the contrast in the written "dream" of what the boat should be. Ashley, more comfy and livable, Ben, fixable with ease!!
All great ideas!!!
Merlin
Congratulations on you new boat adventure!!
Good luck to your new build XXX
You’ve worked hard and endured a lot. Well deserving of a new boat to spoil yourselves. Excited to watch the journey. On the other side of the coin, it’ll be a great opportunity for the family to take a break, enjoy visits with loved ones, and for that well needed time to take care of yourselves, Willa and Bodhi.
I’m thrilled & genuinely wish you guys much success on this next big adventure🌱 You’re taking on a substantial load & good for you, I applaud this Canadian spirit.
For what it’s worth ... over thirty years ago I was introduced to a design/build maxim, or general truth - which in my experience, has largely held true.
Price-Quality-Speed ... Realistically, we can only choose or expect to achieve 2 of these outcomes, something always gives - any 2 - but the other is left behind. Something to think about. 🌱Again, kind wishes for and outstanding build🙂
I applaud your commitment to remain sailing in a new boat. Aluminum is well understood in the maritime industry and those that think it's inferior have a bias. Looking forward to how this build proceeds.
As a British viewer, I appreciate the dedication to 'Aloo-min-yum'
In Australia we just call it Ally.
Hi - we’ve been following you fellow Canadians for a while and you’ve provided great inspiration for us as we pursue our own sailing dreams and dreamboat build. We whole heartedly agree with your assessment of the forward cockpit as we will have one on our Kinetic 54 build. And yeah man… you’re starting to look like Elvis! Keep up the great work!
I have an aluminium sailboat (monohull) and are mostly sailing in the high latitudes (now actually in Svalbard). I am really excited about your next boat and think you are making a great choice! I would really recommend to insulate the boat, as it keeps the boat warmer/colder in cold/warm climate. It also keeps the noise lower inside. (Insulating after the boat is built is also really hard.) Good luck with the whole process!
Insulation sounds like a terrific idea, for both reasons mentioned. Without the insulation, I assume aluminum would be a bit tinnier sounding than glass/ carbon fibre.
Dope chops poppa… keep them forever. Happy Father’s Day!
love the facial hair ben, im super excited for the new boat!
What will the dry weight end up being? You should reconsider using dagger boards. Aluminum is the best and that's why I'm going to build the new Tim Mumby design.
One other point about Aluminum I've seen missed is stress cracking! It's a huge problem the U.S Navy ran into with the Littoral combat ships. It also becomes a concern with aircraft as they age. I don't think I have to tell you how abusive an environment the ocean can be!
I am not bah humbugging the idea but saying proceed with caution and ensure the right grades and thickness of aluminum is chosen. With aluminum welding its different than with steel. The areas to be welded have to be well prepped. If not, then that is another area where cracking and failure can become a problem.
Another area you may wish to consider is foam filling to make the vessel unsinkable.
Blue skies and smooth sailing for you and your family.
There’s a reason $$$$gunboats have a center cockpit! Love the ideas and want the design when available
Like the new boat idea. You’ve introduced new characters to the show, now it’s time for a new set.
My company built one of the fastest superyachts from Aluminium 23 years ago and it is an amazing vessel today. I will be interested in watching the build it's an exciting project.
Shame you lost the bet with those sideburns lol.
There is another DIY sailing channel who had their own brush with Electrolysis and lost both sail drive legs. This was in spite of anodes plus additional ones they added. The thing was they had someone clean the hulls and check things out then about 6 weeks later after another check they were toast and they had to replace both legs.
I don't do boats, I've never had the opportunity "yet" but listening to the beginning where you both mentioned different things,
I think you both work well together. because Ben, you do your stuff like motors, electrical, sails, ropes etc and know a better solution, I can see it in you, your visualising a better easier run of it.. and Ashley can visualise the living space.. you both are very experienced and learning not just shortcuts but seeing a better way and easier way to build the boat for comfort, speed and durability..
what a new exciting adventure your both on and thank you for sharing this at this early stage, people will put in their 2 cents with in in their opinions but you two are experienced and have lots of information and learning experience..
your not new to this and people can learn from you as you learn from the older skippers.. I don't think every day is the same, different weather, different seasons, different every day but you don't just adapt, you both take on board this fact and deal with it accordingly.
I wish you enough ✨
Hope you get time to smell the roses with the kids!
Throw a third hull on nahoa 2 for the engine room/engineering space... i love that you guys are building a new boat.
Hey look it’s belvis on the seas.happy pas day Ben.
I have worked with fiberglass for years including building a couple of airplanes out of it. I understand the differedt glasses and am comfortable working with it. I also built a car out of aluminum and took a 6 week welding course to get certified TIG welding aluminum and other metals to spec. I feel comfortable working with aluminum., Stainless steel, and others. You can get a very small but powerful TIG welder very reasonably priced and run it off your boat power system and be able to repair and even fabricate parts for your boat. Just as easy as repairing fiberglass and much cleaner. Just a comment.
Thanks for your comment. We are out of our depth when it comes to aluminum and welding. Lots to learn!
@@SailingNahoa Sounds like you will have plenty of time to learn. Next time youi go home for a break, you might look into a local junior college or trade school and take a short course on TIG welding aluminum. It could be a life saving skill and best learned from a professional.
You guys are really on to something. Even the burns. I would drop the chop and keep some length. This Aluminum cat will be a game changer in the industry. Love it!
Did the Pork Chops (mutton chops) come with Starlink? 🤣. Happy Father's Day Ben. Stay safe all of you
Awesome stuff very exciting Blessing and joy to you
wow looking forward to the future.
You are very sensible, intelligent SAILERS, and I really enjoy following your travels. You obviously have given your new boat a lot of thought, but the muttonchops sank years ago!
Cheers from Edmonton.
I saw an Aluminium Catamaran yesterday in the Kerikeri River NZ. Which is near David deVillers design office. It made me think of you guys
I look forward to seeing how it functions for y’all and it’s super cool (excuse the term) that it’s a punch out build…
Always thought it was
So awesome my friends grandfather had a wooden boat he was building
Congrats to the both of ya .
Astounding!! What an exciting project!!
FWIW-(Electricity and aluminum) Made me think of the time I was talking to a guy that worked for Alcan and built pontoons they got a call from someone saying there pontoons were continually producing bubbles.....turned out someone has made a mistake in the wiring and when plugged into shore-power the pontoons were electrically charged and would have dissolved in short order had it not been fixed
So excited about this! Super cool! Can't wait to see you guys cut the ribbon at the yard with piles of aluminum to start the build!🎉👌❤️
Congrats! Clever plan. Design your boat, presumably get it built for free on account of a full book of orders, or take a royalty on all future builds to payoff your boat. You can only do this because of your brand and all the work you’ve put over the years. Go for the forward cockpit!
*I’m sure with your sailing experience and tons of people’s advice and idea you guy will bee in full cover. Happy sailing guys.*
1st. congrats on build it is big desition... and many good videos...Second what you are building is called blue water boat and reason is mathematical..I know because I wantet to build katamaran 2..however My goal is expedition and that require safety.. The thing(klasefajd) will be in aluminijum 2 :).
Again very proud of you 2 for that desition..