Boat in a Box - the Mana 24

[@BalkanShipyards]

The best part was when U said "The boat will B in the water by my 70th birthday......" U were a touch late, VS many that never got it done................ Perfect Video, sharp Build!!! Keep Shunting, Balkan Shipyards

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Rael. I have had many blessings in my life, including having the good health and strength to build the Prairie Mermaid and now to enjoy sailing her. The bonus is sharing the experience with those such as yourself, who are boat builders and who are willing to challenge themselves. Fair winds.

[@chrisforrest4494]

I loved your video. I hope you're having fun. You sure have a pretty boat. Congratulations

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Chris. Thanks for your comment. Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@WharramCatamarans]

Thanks Rod for creating such a lovely account of the creation of Prairie Maid. Happy sailing.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Hanneke. So glad you like it.

[@stevehofmann9525]

What a fine video. Your narration was excellent, calm, and easy to listen to. The construction process was clear and well explained and I came away feeling I understood the process as a whole. Happy sailing to you and yours.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Steve. It is nice to hear that. Wishing you also fair winds.

[@scottgordon1781]

Brilliant , thanks , just what I needed :-) You have given me a lot of the basics , space and time etc . I recently came across a Wharram 26' with one complete hull, interior complete and most of the material for the other hull . Seems fine from what I can see , most under tarps . What I am now trying to do is a rough costing of what it will take to get it safely in the water . First for off shore , then maybe for something further . After fitting kitchens and stuff for 30 years have some idea of wood work and have the tools and space , 100 s of G clamps excluded :-) Once I have a 'cost to finish' , I can get a better look at the hull , once free of trees :-) Can make a stand for the hull and get help flipping it over . The great thing is I can get the basic parts for only 600 pounds :-)

[@RodMcLaren]

Sounds like a wonderful and worthwhile opportunity. I wish you much success in bringing the Tiki 26 to completion.

[@scottgordon1781]

@@RodMcLaren , thanks , am getting into it . saw the inside of the hull , looks smart . The port hull . Copper nails . All food for thought . Not your build space , will manage , glass paint the hull , repeat , same cockpit, beams , An idea about sails , paint , wharfage . Could be done :-)

[@RodMcLaren]

Wonderful. Soldier on. Each step gets you closer.

[@kwatt-engineer796]

Loved watching the process of creation from a pile of parts to a vessel ready for new adventures. It is heartening to see you expand your horizons at age 70. I am75 and too many people think folks our age should just sit and wait for the clock to run out! It does not have to be that way unless you let it happen. I built a cruising mono hull in the mid 80s and fully appreciate the amount of work and the feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction on the day when she is finally launched into her element. The feeling from that first sail is hard to describe as you feel how she responds to the helm and you and the boat get to know one another.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for you comments - both about the boat and about 'aging'. When construction of this one began, I thought it would likely be it for boat building for me (I built my first sailboat when I was in my late 40's). But now with this one behind me, I think another one is still a possibility, although I am happy to spend some time enjoying this one first. This is my second season with this boat and there is still much to learn about its personality. So far, it has been a great exploration and not once have I been disappointed. In the next few weeks I will be editing the video of our week long camping/sailing event, the Elbow Run 2019, telling some of that adventure.

[@fosterkennel649]

Beautiful job young man .wonderful content ,great video. Blessings to you and yours coming at you from the mountains of Southern Oregon

[@RodMcLaren]

Good morning, Foster, and thank you for your kind words - especially for the "young man" comment when I consider I will be 5 years older when I complete the new boat I am currently building!.

[@RobYoung74]

Extraordinary video. Thank you for this documentary labour of love!!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you very much. I continue to be surprised and grateful for the response I have received from viewers - it is quite humbling.

[@srileo]

Excellent narration. Very gracious.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for yourcomment. Much appreciated.

[@sirkyoj1]

She sits pretty in the water. Well done.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your kind comment.

[@PeterRawlingson]

Thank you very much Rod for making this video. I am thinking of building a Wharram after retiring and this excellent video gives me a good idea of the long process. The Mana 24 is a beautiful catamaran, but I haven't yet decided which model to go for.

[@RodMcLaren]

Good morning, Peter. It is good to hear you found the video helpful. I encourage you to follow through with your desire to build a Wharram. Regardless of which design your choose, the plans from James Wharram Designs are excellent. The instructions and drawings which Hanneke Boon provides ensure success even for a first time builder. Boat building is a very fulfilling project for retirement - go for it!

[@dherman0001]

Inspiring!!! I'd be super proud to have built something that nice.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks, David. There is certainly a sense of accomplishment that goes along with it.

[@dherman0001]

@@RodMcLaren I hope you're sailing her!

[@RodMcLaren]

@@dherman0001 I was sailing her, until last August when I sold her. The Prairie Mermaid is now sailing on the Georgian Bay (Lake Huron). I am in the midst of another build, this time an ECO 6 catamaran designed by Bernd Kohler. I am on schedule for a launch in time for my 75th birthday in June. The Mana served me well but my needs changed, and it is now serving a new skipper and he tells me he is thoroughly enjoying her.

[@fabianov]

Amazing job

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks, Fabiano

[@stephandevriesere3667]

Just found your video while looking for a boat to build ( a small one for now ), i love this vessel. To bad i don't have garage that is big enough to do the same. I know it's been 5 years ago since you placed this video and so i hope you are still enjoying sailing your boat. I'm 57 now and want to have build at least 2 boats. The first one will be a small motorboat, just big enough to be able to be on the river safely. The second one will be more like yours, maybe just a little bigger. By that time me and my wife will have our pension and can go where ever we want. Happy sailing my friend.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks for your interest. As it happens, the Mana is now sailing on Lake Huron. I built another boat, an ECO 6 catamaran.I just returned from a week of sailing on it, hence my slow response to you comment. The ECO 6 is my third build, and likely my last. Building a boat is a big commitment of time and now at my age (76), I have other activities which keep me very busy. Wishing you success with your building plans.

[@123edwardzpad]

Thank you for sharing the lovely build, taking the time to edit and narrate the video. Looking forward to seeing more.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Edward. Your comments are much appreciated. As you can guess, sailing is a passion for me so it is a pleasure to do the videos. Sailings season soon begins for us, and I am planning to do some more videos after sailing season is over. The big event is always The Elbow Run and I also plan to do more camping and sailing this summer.

[@danceswithcarsdc]

Seems daunting having just started looking up Wharram YesterDay But it's been done, Wonder if I can ...

[@RodMcLaren]

Yes, it has been done. Go for it. 🙂

[@felixcat9318]

Thank you for sharing this lovely story of your introduction to these amazingly capable little craft and how you came to build this one! With your lovely family and friends, you can share wonderful times and make unforgettable memories aboard and about your boat.

[@RodMcLaren]

Glad you enjoyed it. Yes, the Prairie Mermaid is helping to create some wonderful memories with family and friends.

[@tonyaitken3670]

Thanks for your wonderful documentary, Rod. I live in Toronto and built my own Tango 18 micro cruiser many years ago. I remember all the same triumphs, heartaches and yes, colourful language during the build process! I really enjoyed following your build and could relate to everything you went through. Building a wooden boat is more than a project. It is a great adventure into which you bring your family and friends. I felt my heart swelling when I watched you launch your boat and saw it float for the first time. Almost makes me want to build another one... NOT! Cheers and happy sailing, Tony Aitken.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks for your comments, Tony. Its much appreciated, especially coming from another boat builder. By the way, don't be too quick to count yourself out of building another one. I have another one started with planking on the hulls nearly completed. I am aiming for a launch date next June in time to celebrate my 75th birthday. 🙂

[@scottjones6528]

Excellent Job Rod! I too had stumbled across your blog in researching my own build. Really glad to see that you completed the boat, and in a relatively short amount of time! I was considering the Mana 24 as well, but since have decided to build a Tiki 21. I decided it would be easier and more economical for me to build from scratch so I can do it in phases, collecting materials as I go, plus I got a great deal on all my marine ply already. I also decided the 24 would be a little too much boat for me in regards to how often I'll use it, storing it, and building it etc. You built yourself a beautiful craft!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your kind comments, Scott, and I wish you success on your Tiki 21 build. Any time one is deciding between boats, there are trade-offs. While I very much appreciate the extra bunk space for sleeping on the Mana, the Tiki is much easier to handle when launching and retrieving and of course requires less space when building and storing. You will enjoy the Tiki 21. In a weeks time I expect to be sailing on the Tiki 21 I built 20 years ago and I am very much looking forward to it. If you have subscribed to my channel, watch for the video I plan to shoot of the Tiki sailing along the coast of the Gulf of Guinea - Cape Three Points, Ghana. Cheers.

[@arthurturner3080]

excellent video and a lovely boat

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Arthur.

[@weldstuff1]

Very pleasurable video

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your comment. Very happy you enjoyed it.

[@DrHumlae]

Beautiful boat and beautiful family.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you.

[@intsccents]

Rod you are 100% correct it really was a poor choice of words and i love the concept of James Wharram. I grew up sailing a Pearson flyer just under 30 feet long and the reason my father purchased it was because you could sight over the cabin ( just like your boat ) and it was a fast class racer.. i am sure your boat is a ton a fun i have been sailing all types of Catamarans since i was a child and the trill of how catamarans sail is still a blast ... by the way i forgot to give you kudos for the build of your new boat which almost looks like a factory build very clean... L.A Rob

[@RodMcLaren]

You are very kind - thank you. And if you are ever in our neighbourhood, perhaps you would accompany me for a sail and teach me some of your skills to make the Mana go fast. Even though I started sailing 45 years ago and the Mana is the 6th sailboat I have owned and the second boat I have built, I sailed more in the past 10 years than the previous 35 and I feel like I am just starting to learn how to sail properly. The Mana is no fast class sailor but it is a thrill and a blast. Cheers.

[@charliehitchen5263]

Wonderful, Rod. Really interesting. What a superb looking craft you have. We have encountered a few Wharram Cats during our adventures in Scotland. A 38ft moored alongside us at the Kyle of Lochalsh in a huge gale. This was particularly memorable since the skipper and crew had circus skills and were entertaining us by juggling and unicycle stunts along the pontoon s the weather allowed. We met a guy who had bought a 21ft Wharram cat from Portavadie Marina for one pound. He had renovated it and had sailed it around the Clyde area for a number of years. A friend. John Hughes, from the Dinghy Cruising Association has a 17ft version which he has used to make some really adventurous trips on the Irish sea coast of North Wales and England. When I have sailed in his company, I have been impressed by the sea keeping qualities of the boat and by its turn of speed on the reach and downwind. The boat is really suitable for these coasts which are really tidal and dry out a long way from shore. He has a superb dinghy cruising set-up. He has a tent which covers the "trampoline"and a hanging stove arrangement for cooking meals. We sail a Wayfarer when we dinghy cruise. John's boat is the only one I have ever really been envious of! You might catch a glimpse of it on this trip account: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eYjTaX-Mj9GWg5I.

[@RodMcLaren]

Charlie, if I ever make it back to Scotland, I will insist you take me sailing. I am the fifth generation of my family out of the Highlands. I did visit once, in 2005, for 2 weeks at a fire walking school not far from Balqhidder, the traditional homeland of many MacLarens. I would very much like to sail on the west coast, among the islands where the ancestors were guided by mermaids across the sea from Ireland. For now, I content myself with my own Mermaid and let her guide me around our land locked sea. Best wishes

[@clintonfrizzell8467]

Thanks for sharing Rod, I hope you and your family have an amazing time enjoying what you've built!amazing story, thanks for sharing!!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your kind words, Clinton. I am indeed looking forward to some serious sailing time with family this summer.

[@kriiigern777]

And a very nice story. I am amazed by your skills and accomplishment. Thanks for sharing your journey building this amazing boat.

[@RodMcLaren]

You are very kind, Bjørn.I do not consider my skills to be out of the ordinary but your comments make me realize how grateful I am for the skills that I did learn from my father many years ago, and more importantly for the encouragement he gave me to try things without fear of failure.

[@Hindukushsailing]

Was reading over your blog before and happy to see the finished product on the water. It really turned out nice.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for following the blog and the build.

[@johnnydfred]

Great story. Preparing my own soon. I’m giving myself until age 70 as well!

[@RodMcLaren]

Wishing you much success. I am very happy I went ahead with this project when I did.

[@crazyrayuk36]

Oh wow that's brilliant. Nice job👍😊 Thanks for sharing

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks. Glad you liked it.

[@crazyrayuk36]

Think it's totally brilliant. A catamaran in kit form. Never seen that. The hull arrangements where each hull is a 1 person space and the deck is clear. Now that again never seen before but makes its usability and customisation a great option. And the end job was looks amazing. Been googling about to see what's about in kit form. So thank you again for sharing as this has inspired me.

[@RodMcLaren]

@@crazyrayuk36 James Wharram Designs have always had excellent plans, with lots of detail which is especially helpful for first time builders. I built their Tiki 21 over 20 years ago with no boat building experience or training and had no problems. The kit makes it even easier, since all of the plywood pieces and even some of the solid wood pieces have already been cut out. The kit was a big part of my decision to build another boat, and to pick this particular design. And then there's the boat with accommodations and an open deck, as you have pointed out. Each winter I look forward to the next sailing season. :-) Have you seen the latest video of the boat? kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ-ukICYppx0fJI

[@crazyrayuk36]

Not yet but just about to 😊 thank you

[@RodMcLaren]

@@crazyrayuk36 Where do you sail?

[@chrispunshon2370]

Hard won but wonderfully worthwhile, many congratulations,

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Chris.

[@philbenniebiking8339]

Nicely done. I built a Hitia 17 a few years ago and it brings back great memories!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Philip. Hope you are still creating memories with your Hitia 17. That is another of the Wharram designs that I would like to have built! :)

[@hamishcarr1098]

A very enjoyable watch with the rain coming down outside here in NZ during the middle of winter. The narration is superb, must give it a go with my efforts in the future.

[@RodMcLaren]

Glad you enjoyed it, Hamish. I would love to hear you talking about the attention to details you gave to your ECO 550. You have much to share.

[@scottsingsoul]

Beautiful and impressive!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@robertschweppie5256]

Good job well done, happy sailing.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Robert. We will soon be out on the Prairie Mermaid for another week of sailing during the 10th Elbow Run - always good times.

[@flysubcompact]

Your son and your granbaby both looked giddy at the launch. Good stuff.

[@RodMcLaren]

They were not nearly as giddy as I was. :-) Thanks.

[@SapphosSails]

I really appreciate you sharing the build process and everything for this! It was very detailed and helps make it seem way more realistic for first time builders! I can't afford the 20k CAD for the kit but I still plan to find a way to build an economical cat someday!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks you for your comments. I wish you success in building your first boat. First times for many activities can be a bit daunting but when pursued with determination and perseverance, most folks can succeed. It also helps if there are resources available, including experienced builders. I am nearing the end of my third build and have found this one the most challenging due to the sparse directions supplied with the building plans. Fortunately a previous builder in New Zealand has been exceptionally generous in sharing his experience and expertise via the internet. When the stars align for you to begin building, I wish for you the same good fortune I had when this builder came my way.

[@jackmahones3855]

thanks for the beautiful and inspiring video. smooth sailing

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Jack. Wishing the same for you.

[@ianbell5611]

Great job. As an aside great seeing you and your son together like you I'm of anglo descent my parther is Nigerian we're trying to have a baby.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Ian. Wishing you much success and joy in the enterprise you and your partner have undertaken. Like building a boat, it can be challenging but very much worth the effort.

[@geofferyrobertson6608]

extordanary Tradesman in Yourself mate ... job well done , be proud of what you have done

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your kind words, Geoffrey.

[@geofferyrobertson6608]

@@RodMcLaren , you've earnt and deserve them mate , I only wish that I was that smart / clever

[@SLOWBOAT2CHINA]

Rod, what an inspiring video. Can you tell me approximately how long the build took? Many thanks and fair winds.

[@RodMcLaren]

Good morning, Slow Boat and thank you for your comment. The build took about 9 months. It was started in mid September and the Mana was launched the third week of June. Most weeks I was in the shop 5 days working an average of 4 or hours each day with a few days of 8 - 10 hours thrown in depending on the task at hand.

[@lancedaniels]

Thanks for posting and sharing.

[@RodMcLaren]

Glad you liked it.

[@carmelpule6954]

Sir, may I congratulate you on the level of skills used in making this boat, but I mostly admired the use of the English language, the rich vocabulary and the brilliant emotional and technical style you selected to use the language including the tone of voice and the rate at which you spoke. It is not often one hears a technical man mix the selected words to depict not only the functional and processing side of what he describes but also to include an artistic literary flair and a lot of consideration in appreciating all those around you who assisted and uplift you in mind and spirit, including a visit from your dear mother. I have no doubt that your own spirit coupled with the soul of that boat will give you many moments of meditation to enjoy the universe around you, where you will not only be a good boatbuilder, sailor, but also a great philosopher with a lot of consideration for what a boat can provide for an ethical considerate gentleman.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your kind words. It is a real pleasure for me to be able to share the process of building and then subsequently sailing .I am very happy that you enjoyed the video.

[@rioforforeigners]

Nice to see you back in business!

[@kevinholden2067]

Great film. Thanks for sharing

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks, Kevin. Glad you liked it.

[@wilsonjosesilva8751]

Uauuu, another great vídeo and history! Congratulations for your second Wharram boat! Amazing

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your kind comments.

[@AndrewMoizer]

Great story Rod. Thanks so much for sharing it with us all. You've got me inspired now from watching it. And we will have to figure out how to bridge the distance divide so we can sail together.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks, Andrew. Yes, lets figure out some sailing together - I would like that.

[@chriswills9530]

Nice work. Nice to se the Carrick Roads in the footage of the prototype launch.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Chris for your comment. One day I would love to see Carrick Roads for myself. I am grateful to Hanneke for making that clip available so it could be included.

[@chriswills9530]

@@RodMcLaren Cornwall is sailing heaven, mate, and I get to live here!

[@roxyknight4909]

Wow ... very cool

[@MrFgd3]

Very nice video and a lovely job of boatbuilding.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your comment. Much appreciated.

[@kenborgers637]

Rod, Thank you for an extremely informative and inspiring video! Also loved seeing the boat in the Elbow Run vid. Hope you'll put up more. Fair winds!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Ken. Much appreciated. Yes, I hope to get more videos up from the coming sailing season, including another Elbow Run in July. Over the winter I sewed up a new sail which will be tried out when conditions are right, and there are modifications to the deck tent which hopefully will make it more serviceable. Stay tuned. :-)

[@murilofernandes3492]

Thanks for the video. One of few that started sand finished a boat project without traditional complaints! Good winds...

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Murilo.

[@richardskingdom]

Absolutely remarkable journey. Thanks for sharing this inspirational tale :)

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Richard, for your comments. Much appreciated.

[@kroneditor9266]

Excellent presentation and achievement! Congratulations to all concerned 👍👍👍

[@eladioboss]

Rod , felicitaciones nuevamente por este maravilloso vídeo que ilustra de manera clara, calma Y minuciosa, el proceso de construcción de este bellísimo catamarán. Felicidades !!! Eladio

[@RodMcLaren]

Muchas gracias, Eladio. Feliz de saber que lo disfrutaste

[@joeblow1942]

Nice job! You should be very proud of such an accomplishment.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, 867. We are enjoying the results - sailing the boat is very gratifying.

[@silva-anderida7695]

A wonderful document.Cheers.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Trevor. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@bobwebber9351]

Well done rod ,thankyou for sharing

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Bob, Glad you enjoyed it.

[@TheRoyalBavarian]

Lovely boat. Good voyages.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you.

[@barking.dog.productions1777]

1st time viewer... That is what I am talking about. This dude is humble and admits his mistakes along the way , and not only that but tells how to over-come them... that is what makes this video awesome. Subbed and liked immediately!!!! I have a little trailer-sailor that I need to fix the glitches such as the swing keel winch blocking the only storage hatch when in place and deployed. No experience but armed with this info I feel confident with the redesign, and glassing in the new winch system. I also feel confident adding the dodger, extra storage, and hatches that I will need to take my tiny sailboat anywhere for 2 weeks or more. Add some water tight bulk heads? No problem. lol It was a project that I dreaded, but now I look forward to the challenge... thanks to you! Kudos on a job well done! Edit: the design is awesome. The top is very low and it is ketch rigged. You built a world class sailboat here. After a few seasons sailing around the coast to break her in and add better accommodations I would not hesitate to head toward bluer water with you serving as crew..

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your kind words, Barking.Dog. I agree - the Mana 24 is a world class design - Hanneke Boon and James Wharram incorporated features like the ketch rig which make the boat rather unique with enough flexibility to handle a wide range of sailing conditions. This year's sailing season is still a few weeks away and I am looking forward to it again - each year I learn new aspects of the boat which add to my admiration of the design. As I become more familiar with the boat I have been able to make small modifications to add to the experience. Last year I sewed up an asymmetrical spinnaker and added it to the sail inventory. This year I am adding a mizzen staysail which I hope will also improve light wind sailing. Major modifications to the deck tent have also been made which I hope will make overnight camping more pleasant. Sailing seems to be like that - modifications are endless and we sailors never are happy to leave things alone. The modifications you have planned for your trailer-sailor sound challenging and at the same time a lot of fun. I wish you much success and progress with your work. Best wishes.

[@BillChild2njoy]

What an accomplishment!! Beautiful!!

[@dineshdhawan1]

Greetings from Ghana, Nana! Brilliant video! This is not something that would normally interest me, but your engaging narration and storytelling drew me right in. It was wonderful seeing your build from start to finish... Fair wind!

[@RodMcLaren]

Good morning, Dinesh. Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it. So nice to hear from you. If you happen to be in the Western Region in February, maybe we can get together. All the best to you and your family.

[@silasdogwood8395]

Beautiful boat, and a really helpful video. Thanks!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Silas. Nice to know it helped.

[@brucebaldy]

Good looking ship, very sleek.

[@buildingsailboats4549]

Dear Rod, I loved watching your video and listening to your narration. Thank you so much for sharing. Prairie Maid looks wonderful. Greetings, Marcel

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you so much, Marcel. We are all watching your Hitia 14 build and looking forward to your launch. Your continued updates have been followed by many. Best wishes

[@journeyislandstyle3786]

Excellent work Matey, on both the boat and the video!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Shaun.

[@brianjoyce9040]

Great story well told. Beautiful craft.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Brian.

[@edemkumah5248]

Thanks for sharing. Nice to know you have family in Ghana 🇬🇭 🙂

[@RodMcLaren]

Medassi, Edem. Wo fre Ghana ana?

[@edemkumah5248]

@@RodMcLaren Yes I'm from Ghana 😀

[@RodMcLaren]

@@edemkumah5248 Where is your home town? Did you watch my video about the Tiki 21 that is now with my son at Cape Three Points, WR? kzbin.info/www/bejne/hn-0YnqLrNh0gbc

[@edemkumah5248]

@@RodMcLaren I'm from a place called Wusuta in the Volta Region. I haven't watched the video on the Tiki 21 I'll do that. 🙂

[@RodMcLaren]

@@edemkumah5248 Nice. I don't know that town but I travelled to Kpandu several times in the 70's, and to other parts of the Volta Region. It is very pretty in that part of the country.

[@couchpotato321]

Beautiful work! Loved the video and the build. Hope to see the boat at a Hui one day!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Brandon. I would love to bring Prairie Mermaid to a Hui. Its a long drive to Florida so the next best thing is to host a Hui here. I'm hoping Bo will bring his Tiki 21 next summer to the Elbow Run for a mini-Hui, and then see what develops from there.

[@armandofermill5768]

This is what i love purely Handmade...amazing,,

[@Vincent-Vega24]

Its Beautiful!!!!! Really great job on it!!!!!! Happy Sailing my friend!!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Vincent.

[@ashthomas5257]

Beautiful video (and yacht) Mate! Loved the bit about working out how to do something with a mate, then getting the Missus to help! Possibly the best single vid build ever! Enjoy you work!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Ash. You are very kind.

[@ashthomas5257]

@@RodMcLaren And Honest! if you ever find yourself in the Whitsundays, I'll buy you a beer! Again, Thanks!

[@RodMcLaren]

@@ashthomas5257 Careful what you ask for. :) I'd love to take you up on that some day.

[@ashthomas5257]

@@RodMcLaren :) Fridge is full!

[@JockeSelin]

This is so cool, Rod! Well done! You should be proud!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Jocke. I do feel blessed.

[@JockeSelin]

@@RodMcLaren, you might be blessed (I don't know, I don't work with the guys in that department 😉), but from my perspective you've prioritised things so this project could happen, and your workmanship is second to none. You made this happen and you made it. Superb! Truly superb! 😎👍🏻

[@royrost7511]

Awesome story! Thank you for sharing.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Roy. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@sail4life]

Congratulations on your beautiful boat!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you very much, Dennis.

[@pureprotein9597]

Absolutely beautiful build. I sail my grandpa’s hobie 16 out on pasqua lake Saskatchewan, and while the comfort of a cheap monohull day sailor tempts me, I much prefer catamaran sailing, and there isn’t really comfort to catamaran sailing until you go big with 30-80 foot ocean cruisers that are $$$ and don’t really have much of a place in Canada’s prairies haha. But your boat is a really interesting build to me. Cheers.

[@RodMcLaren]

Nice to hear you like the boat. Have you seen my more recent video of the boat sailing on Lake Diefenbaker? kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ-ukICYppx0fJI And since you are not so far away, why not bring your grandpa's Hobie 16 and join us in July for the Elbow Run 2021? We'd be happy to have a Hobie 16 join us. You could have a closer look at the Mana 24 while you're at it. If you're interested let me know. Better yet, why not build a Mana 24 and bring it for the Elbow Run 2022!

[@TonyAnschutz]

Great story Rod. I really enjoyed that. Many happy days on the water sir!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Tony.

[@russellesimonetta3835]

Very nice!!! Great lake or river boat. Blue water is scary though.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Russell. I am a fresh water sailer. So far the Mana has handled everything I have encountered and done so with ease. I am sure it would be fine as a coastal sailor also, but I like to be able to see land somewhere on the horizon. :)

[@waughthogwaugh3078]

Rod you have put a great video together here, congratulations. Wishing you and your family many happy hours aboard Prairie Mermaid. Great tributes to the designers and their pioneering spirit too.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Grant.

[@urmommawasfun]

Love when I run into others from Saskatoon. Such a rare occurrence in the internet!

[@RodMcLaren]

Good morning, Julien. Nice to meet. Yes, not so often to meet others from Saskatchewan much less Saskatoon. I remember once discovering a Saskatchewan Rough Rider flag in a sports bar in Stonetown, Zanzibar. It was strange enough to find a sports bar there but then to see the RiderPride flag was over the top (and I am not even a sports fan - I just wanted a cold beer). :)

[@run_it_straight829]

Awesome video

[@troyhumphreys9952]

Incredible, thanks for sharing!!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Troy. It was my pleasure.

[@charonstyxferryman]

Regarding fiber glassing, I could be tempted to find the cheapest wood, and crappy epoxy, and get a bit of experience first, so I can avoid very expensive mistakes.

[@RodMcLaren]

Practise is always valuable. Here is another approach to consider - choose a smaller boat design, buy good quality plywood and the brand/type of epoxy you plan to use on the project you are preparing for, and then practise. Then, when you have finished the exercise, you will have a lovely smaller boat you will be happy to use or to sell) instead of a boat you are not confident in because of poor quality components. Yes, fibreglassing can be intimidating, but chances are you will do just fine on your practise run and why not build something you can be happy with.

[@regonwarren4750]

Very talented

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you.

[@GreenMntMoto]

This is good stuff!! Thanks for sharing

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Nate. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@dereksuddreth8672]

Fair Winds, Following Seas!

[@orleinicolini8779]

Is more than the most people. ..beautiful sea boat

[@Captain_Bartolo]

Beautiful! Thank you for sharing!!!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Captain Bartola

[@ianbell5611]

Great Work that's a real nice catamaran

[@ATOMICZOMBIEDOTCOM]

Amazing build!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks, Brad

[@peternorton3398]

Hi Rob great video top quality and so much information. Just a couple I questions I have: How long did it take to build and what was the overall cost. Prairie Mermaid just a beautiful do Rob thanks for sharing.

[@RodMcLaren]

Good morning, Peter. I am happy to hear the video is useful - thanks for your comments. The build took place over 9 months, working by myself except for the glassing and a bit of work at the end. My estimate would be about 1400 hours for building and finishing. I did not keep accurate track of time - also I did not try to hurry. I have been asked about the cost before. The complete kit will build the boat, less the cost of primer and paint. In my case, because I am in Canada, I sourced the aluminum tubing for the masts as well as the longer required timber here in Canada in order to have the kit airfreighted economically. The cost of the masts and timber were about the same as if I had purchased the kit complete. Air freight to Canada was $1500. Paint and primer that I used (System Three) was around $500. I also required more WEST epoxy than what is supplied - add another $500. Then there are incidentals like extra disposable gloves, sandpaper, brushes, etc - approximately $500. So if you take the current price for the kit + CDN$1500 + CDN$500 + CDN$500 +CDN$500 you will have the price. Of course, that does not include a trailer or an auxiliary engine if you require those. I see that Wharram's currently have a great offer if you order right now - the kit is available for the 2017 price so if you are thinking of building one, this is a great opportunity! I hope you do choose to build one - its a great boat and I am sure you will enjoy it.

[@michaelcee8348]

@@RodMcLaren only 3k. simply amazing

[@jerrymcintire7902]

@@michaelcee8348 $3K plus the cost of the kit

[@jimnickles2347]

Great Job! Fair Winds....

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, JIm

[@goodkebo]

Nice boat and nice video!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you.

[@michaelcee8348]

much admiration. simply amazing.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Michael

[@lucky-gh5ox]

Very beautiful design. How does it sail? compared to the Tiki21

[@RodMcLaren]

I agree, lucky 748. The Mana 24 is beautiful. Hanneke Boon and James Wharram have done a wonderful job with the Mana. The hull continues the lines of the Tiki series and sets it off with the sleek sweep-around cabin top. I am still learning how to maximize performance with the cat ketch rig and have been very pleased with how forgiving and flexible it can be. The boat performed very well during our Elbow Run 2019 under a wide range of conditions (see kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmeWlJyso9d6aaM ). I added an asymmetrical spinnaker to the sail inventory and that greatly improved down wind performance in light winds. Compared to the Tiki 21? It has been some time since I sailed the T21 I built years ago so I'm not sure yet but I expect the Mana is somewhat faster. A friend plans to bring his T21 to the Elbow Run 2020 and then we will get to see them sailing together.

[@lucky-gh5ox]

@@RodMcLaren Congratulations Rod. thank you.

[@pascalblotiau]

What a great achievement, how are the beams attached to the hull is it the same as the other wharram cats?

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Pascal, for the complement. The crossbeams are attached to the hulls using webbing and over centre cam locks, in the same way the Tiki 30 is attached, This is a much faster method of attachment than lashings.

[@pascalblotiau]

Rod McLaren thanks gotta check this out

[@RodMcLaren]

@@pascalblotiau wonderful. The Mana 24 is a great design - you will very much appreciate it. Don't hesitate to contact me if you have more questions. Have you seen my video on last year's Elbow Run? It has more shots of the boat when sailing. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmeWlJyso9d6aaM

[@StrawberryGarcia]

Hi Rod I am in the process of purchasing a wharram 28 footer, did you build the trailer you used from plans? it seems to do the job very well I was hoping to get some more information on it, thank you

[@RodMcLaren]

Hi, Mike, the trailer I used was originally used for a pontoon boat. I added the slide-outs, borrowing an idea from the factory trailers sold with Stiletto catamarans back in the 80's. I blogged about it here: villagerainbows.com/2018/09/18/mana-trailer-in-action/ and here: villagerainbows.com/2018/09/10/the-trailer-part-of-the-trailer-sailor/. I would like to add rollers to the supports but haven't got around to doing that. Wishing you much success with your Wharram.

[@StrawberryGarcia]

Rod McLaren Thanks for the feedback Rod I will check it out appreciate it

[@boondockshawks]

Great vid (3 years ago) CLC in the US has just announced it will be cutting kits for these so maybe we will see some more sailing about in North America now that it won’t have to cross the pond in a shipping crate first

[@RodMcLaren]

Yes, I just read the news this morning. That is good news indeed. The Mana 24 is a boat well suited for fresh water and coastal sailing in and around North America, so it would be good to know that #3 is not the only one sailing here.

[@brucebaldy]

nice. Did it take long to assemble? Pretty paint job.

[@RodMcLaren]

I began work late in September and launched the third week of June. Estimate was 1400 hours.

[@brucebaldy]

@@RodMcLaren nine months it's your baby.

[@RodMcLaren]

@@brucebaldy Good one! :) Fortunately it was a smooth delivery..

[@johnryan2193]

Well done and thank you .

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, John.

[@charlycostes2588]

Congratulations !

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Charly.