How To Build A Timber Outrigger Canoe?

The Bay of Bengal Programme (BOBP) conducted a project in Nias Island, Sumatera, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka to design and construct planked outrigger canoes. The Redwood Canoe is an example of a DIY wood boat made from luan plywood, fiberglass, epoxy, and a little mahogany. The simplest canoes are made of just three pieces of plywood: the two sides and the base.

Outriggers can help stabilize a canoe on the water by acting as an extension to the width of the vessel. They attach to the canoe providing a crossbar and cylindrical shape. Dug-out outrigger canoes, traditional fishing craft found from Madagascar in the west to Indonesia and the Pacific Islands in the east, are made from tree-based materials.

The same methods of construction may be used for canoes from 7.5 m to 10.8 m length. Sawn planks can be cut locally or purchased from a timber shop. Two curved booms attach to the outrigger with simple pegs and lashing.

To build the main canoe hull, cut stem and stern pieces and epoxy them to one of the topside sheets. These will be in the form of wooden wedges to which the ends of the boat will be attached. All other parts are constructed from luan plywood, fiberglass, epoxy, and a little mahogany.

In summary, building a plywood outrigger canoe is a simple and cost-effective way to add a crossbar and cylindrical shape to a canoe. By following the advice of waka ama advocates, you can create a beautiful and functional canoe that is both affordable and visually appealing.