Can We Build A Boat with ZERO Experience??? Sailing Vessel Delos Ep. 452

Building a Dream: Sailing SV Delos Designs Delos 2.0 – a NEW catamaran with David de Villiers

In this episode of Sailing SV Delos, Brian and Kazza meet with renowned designer David de Villiers to discuss the plans for their new boat – Delos 2.0. Having sailed extensively on their current vessel, Delos, the couple has a clear vision for their ideal cruising catamaran. They set out to build a boat that is perfect for their cruising lifestyle, one that is comfortable, functional, and able to handle anything the ocean throws at them.

Is Delos 2.0 a 62-foot aluminum expedition catamaran or a smaller 52.5-foot sister ship?

The episode begins with Brian and Kazza discussing their initial impressions of David’s design. They are impressed with the forward cockpit, which will house all of the sailing hardware, and the aft deck lounge, which will be a great place to relax and enjoy the view. They are also interested in having a watertight bulkhead separating the engine room from the accommodation, as well as a skeg to protect the rudder and propeller. They’re impressed by David’s 62-foot aluminum expedition catamaran design, but acknowledge it’s a bit too big for their current needs, especially with a young child on board. David then unveils his plans for a smaller sister ship, a 52.5-foot aluminum catamaran that incorporates many of the same features as the larger design.

Brian and Kazza are particularly interested in the forward cockpit concept, which places all the sailing hardware in one easily accessible location, and the aft deck lounge area with a full roof extension for better weather protection. They also discuss the importance of watertight compartments for safety and the benefits of an aluminum hull for strength and durability when exploring remote destinations.

Visit the boatyard where Delos 2.0 – Brian and Kazza’s new catamaran is being built

Later, the episode follows Brian and Kazza as they visit the boatyard where their new catamaran is being built. David explains the use of different aluminum plate thicknesses throughout the hull, with thicker plating used in the bottom sections for increased protection against grounding. He also highlights the design’s features to improve performance, including a protected rudder and keel for exploring shallow areas. David then takes Brian and Kazza on a tour of the boat, pointing out all of the different features and explaining the design choices behind them. He explains that the boat is made of aluminum, which is a strong and lightweight material that is perfect for long-distance cruising. He also talks about the boat’s performance characteristics, noting that it should be a very well-performing boat.

Hands-on lesson in aluminum boat fabrication

After the tour, Brian and Kazza get a hands-on lesson in aluminum boat fabrication. They learn how to bend flat aluminum extrusions into round circles, and then fit them to match perfectly to the frame. This is a complex and time-consuming process, but it is an essential part of building a strong and durable boat.

By the end of the episode, Brian and Kazza are even more excited about their new boat. They are confident that they can build a boat that is perfect for their needs, even with no prior experience.

Exploring the key features of the Delos 2.0

• Forward cockpit: This will house all of the sailing hardware, making it easy to sail the boat from one location.
• Aft deck lounge: This will be a great place to relax and enjoy the view.
• Watertight bulkhead: This will separate the engine room from the accommodation, which will help to keep the boat safe in the event of a fire or leak.
• Skeg: This will protect the rudder and propeller from damage.
• Aluminum construction: This will make the boat strong and lightweight, perfect for long-distance cruising.

Navigating the logistics of building the new sailing catamaran Delos 2.0

The episode concludes with Brian and Kazza contemplating the logistics of building their boat. While initially considering building the boat themselves in Sweden, they recognize the advantages of building it in Brisbane, Australia, where they have access to skilled professionals like Dan, the metal fabricator who is building their current boat. They face the challenge of deciding whether to complete the entire build in Australia or ship the partially finished hull to Sweden to finish the interior closer to family.

This episode is a great resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about boat design and construction. It is also a great inspiration for anyone who is dreaming of building their own boat.