In 2018 I built D4 dinghy out of cheap Chinese plywood. I liked how it rowed but it self destructed after about 2 years. I had a bad hip and was out of commission for a while. After replacement surgery I found I could resume activities. As a test to see if I could still do it I built another D4. I felt that the legroom and oarlock placement indicated that the design was geared for kids. I did not follow the original seat design, instead copied Chesapeake Light Craft's Eastport Pram design. I am happy with the outcome. I blog at sailblogs.com:
andy solywoda
Ahoy,
In 2018 I built D4 dinghy out of cheap Chinese plywood. I liked how it rowed but it self destructed after about 2 years. I had a bad hip and was out of commission for a while. After replacement surgery I found I could resume activities. As a test to see if I could still do it I built another D4. I felt that the legroom and oarlock placement indicated that the design was geared for kids. I did not follow the original seat design, instead copied Chesapeake Light Craft's Eastport Pram design. I am happy with the outcome. I blog at sailblogs.com:
https://www.sailblogs.com/member/kaimusailing/507722
May 1
Maxime J
Hi,
Had a blast building up a Chesapeake Light Craft Eastport Pram, highly recommend. Eastport Pram -- Ultra-light 8-foot Rowing and Sailing Dinghy -- Th....
Pros:
- Sail it, row it, or motor it
- Weighs 80lbs
- Super Stable, open water capable
- Stitch and Glue construction, I used Okoume Ply and West System Epoxy
Cons:
- 2 person boat, 375 lb capacity, tow a raft if you need to move a tribe
- Plans aren't free
May 17
andy solywoda
Ahoy,
That is a great design. I tried to copy the seat arrangement for my D4 but may have goofed just a little. I'm very happy with it.
Andy
on Saturday