Agape Model & Details

It is almost universally recommended that one build a model of the boat one is going to build - so I did. The basic idea behind this is that one familiarizes oneself with the plans and gets practice with the skills useful in building a boat. For example, one gets practice in following the axiom: "Measure twice - cut once." - and I did.

The purpose of this post is to present the photos of the model I built so that others can (1) have a better idea of what Agape will look like, (2) see and discuss the changes made to the pilothouse, and (3) discuss my plans for the boat.

Here are the photos (more text after the photos):

Starting at the stern - the cockpit is six feet long and can be used to sleep 2 people. The pilothouse was reduced in height by 6 inches and lengthened forward by one foot to three and a half feet (more on these changes below). Forward of the pilothouse is a 3 1/2 foot long "Birdwatcher" slot. Forward of this is a 2 1/2 foot foredeck (foc's'le) and forward of that is an anchor/ bow exit well.

This layout provides a cockpit and pilothouse with their obvious advantages and disadvantages. The Birdwatcher slot permits one to stand and walk forward of the pilothouse. I have plans for readily closing / securing the openings when desired because of weather conditions.

Regarding the pilothouse - I have purchased a very comfortable chair and plan to use the dimensions to make two seats similar to those used for bleachers in a stadium. These seats can be used in the pilothouse, the cockpit, or on the foc's'le. I will make a small table for use as a desk in the pilothouse.  Lengthening the pilothouse makes for easy entry into the two seven foot long berths.

Lowering the pilothouse roof allows the person steering the boat to see over it. I intend to make a small platform for use by those shorter than me. I plan to make a small awning to cover the companionway hatch - sort of like a dodger. This will keep out rain and sun, etc.  For use at anchor or at the dock I intend to make awnings (tents) for the cockpit and the forward (of the pilothouse) section.

I continue to work out construction, trailering and "camping" details and will present those when final decisions are made.