JEM Watercraft

Hi All,

I have taken some time to read and view a few of the ideas and excellent feedback on this site. The information provided is exceptional and has inspired me to get a start on an Issaquah 14' or 17.5' (justified). The question I have is it suitable to build one out of 4mm marine ply (glassed over) given that it would only be used in lake type situations, however still subject to some boat wash and general wind chop and waves. I anticipate it will be required to accomodate an electric motor and accessories such as down riggers, rod holders etc. This will be a practice run for something a little more detailed such as the SOT that present so well.

If you buy good 4mm plywood, the answer is a resounding yes. If you buy cheap plywood, then I withdraw my answer. I'm prejudiced on this subject, and will use the best grade available of Okoume mahogany plywood every time.

I have no desire to put my body into a boat made of the cheapest wood available and go out into deep water. I didn't get to be 70 years old by being dumb. (Not certain how I DID get here, but I'm pretty sure it wasn't stupidity that did the trick.)

Kayak Jack,
Many thanks for your prompt reply, I anticipate using high quality Australian mahogany marine grade ply with an A grade glue bond similiar to that used in structural plywoods. With the correct techniques and Bote- Cote adhesives as recommended I hope it will float respectfully to your vintage.

Cheers
Artfull dodger
P.S not sure why my handle and details are not visable

Since you are here in Australia, I would suggest that you source some Gaboon Marine ply. It is about the best marine ply we can get here. It's also a bit lighter than mahogany. makes for easier lifting and carrying.

BTW welcome aboard.

4mm glassed inside and out, using quality ply, is a good idea since you said you'll be mounting a small motor.

Kayak Jack wrote:
I have no desire to put my body into a boat made of the cheapest wood available and go out into deep water. I didn't get to be 70 years old by being dumb. (Not certain how I DID get here, but I'm pretty sure it wasn't stupidity that did the trick.)

How do we know it wasn't "dumb luck"??

Very good chance that you're right! Jack here

G'day AD and welcome aboard mate.

I have started using the 4mm Gaboon ply and love it. The veneers are a little softer than mahogany and can bruise and mark easily. It is about as tough as sirrian or Aus western Red Cedar so it is pretty soft. It just needs a little care when handling it is all.

I think the 4mm gaboon would be fine on this boat, particulrly since you are sheathing in glass inside and out.

Good luck on the build mate.

BTW

Has anybody noticed just how many Jem boats are being built here in Aus at the moment?

Mick,
I HAVE noticed that fact! And in honor of the large number of boats being built by the fellow criminals, derilics, and insane inmates of this planet, I'm going to put a picture of a platypus on my Freedom!!
You'll know it's me when I post the final "piccies" on the builders' log.

Lee
PS I tried to download some of them to photobucket, but thier website is down for maintainence today.

Thank you all for your valuable suggestions, Gaboon Marine ply it shall be.
H.M is it readilly available or does it take some tracking down from a supplier / timber yard.

Seems like any decent sheet material supplier has it. Can't get it as cheap as HM but I reckon $40 for a local supplier is pretty good. Even the local boat supply place it was only a few bucks more.

Tor