The boat that David and I built

[@leandrosoaresdacosta1006]

I had a great time watching your video! Congratulations, it's an inspiring work. I had the intention of building a 38-footer to live aboard in retirement. I even had a "disassemblable hangar" for construction within the grounds of my house. I was expecting about 10 years of work. But just as I was about to start, I had health problems that prevented me from doing intense manual labor. I was prevented from realizing my dream, but I find fulfillment in seeing people who have succeeded! Congratulations!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for watching. I am sorry to hear of your health issue - I am grateful to still have good health, allowing me to complete this boat. I wish you well moving forward in your life.

[@davidthatcher8362]

I enjoyed watching the video. Looking at your photos makes me relive the rewarding and satisfying process of building my own Eco 6.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, David. Glad you liked it. Like you, I enjoyed the build but now I am looking forward to sailing! Thank you again for all the support you provided during my build..

[@markpalmquist]

I agree, this is a great design for a small catamaran with a cabin. Great job!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Mark.

[@RobbsHomemadeLife]

Your video really helps people appreciate all the work that goes into building a boat. And what a great looking boat it is congratulations you should feel very proud looking forward to future videos of you sailing the boat

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for you for your kind words. Yes, it is a lot of work but it comes with a great deal of satisfaction. This is the third catamaran I have built and each one presented its own challenges. No one is looking forward as much as me to seeing this new boat under sail!! 😀

[@robinnepper1924]

Great Video. I came across your channel shortly after becoming obsessed with the Wharram Cats. Looking forward to seeing this little beast under sail. Be well, Rod, from Alberta.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Robin. I can relate to the obsession with Wharram designs. In addition to the two I built, I h ave study plans for the Tiki 30 and Tiki 38. 😀 May I ask - where in Alberta do you sail?

[@robinnepper1924]

@@RodMcLaren in my imagination at this point, lol. I grew up On Vancouver island so I’ll get to it eventually

[@yoyomrbo]

Thanks for putting the video together, Rod. What a resource and what a beautiful build! You really seem to have embraced carbon fiber parts. I would love to see how you built those. They look great and won’t corrode!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your comments, Bo. As for the carbon fibre, it seemed to come to me more by chance than by design. 😀 To begin with, David fabricated a number of parts on his ECO 6 with carbon fibre and I thought of the idea as just being interesting. Then when my friend Rick offered to give me the cut-offs from his solar panel production line, I decided to give it a go. It was not particularly difficult. As it happens, the brackets holding the self-tacking jib track are too short. When I make the new ones in the spring, if I remember I could take more photos and do a small video of the process showing how I did it.

[@jonathanmorgan7503]

Greetings from Wales 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 UK Rod. What a fantastically well produced video of a great project. I'm eager to see her sailing in future vids.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Jonathan, for your kind comments. Be sure, when I get clips of the boat sailing, there wil be another video.😀

[@PaulWallis-c7y]

Everything was so neat and even, it takes skill to build like this. Beautiful boat. I'm also in the process of building the same ECO 6 boat. I'm taking my slow time to build it right. Blessed wind.

[@RodMcLaren]

You have a good start, Paul. Steady on. Like you say, no rush.

[@vanceharmon3481]

Great job 👏

[@rudywoodcraft9553]

Fantastic job and great video Rod! I really enjoyed getting to follow through the whole project and very much look forward to being on the water with you and the new boat!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Doug. It will be wonderful to sail alongside you during the Elbow Run this year.

[@sailoutofagarage6212]

Thank you for sharing, this was very interesting!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it. I just checked out your channel and see you have a lot of excellent v ideas of building and sailing boats. I particularly like your comment about a problem you were having with hatches that were leaking "perhaps this gives ideas of a future build". I have subscribed to your channel to find out if you replace that camping catamaran. Thank you again.

[@alfreddaniels3817]

Very good video 👍👍succes with your sailing. I hope you keep us updated 👍👍

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Alfred. Yes, I plan to post sailing videos in the future.

[@andrelvas87]

Amazing work my friend!!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you.

[@marcutrillogibert9154]

Thats a very awesome project , congra, looks amazing.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Marc.

[@Tingtvph9226]

Very nice job sir. I love this kind of boat. Watching from naic cavite. Philippines!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your comments. The ECO 6 and Mr. Kohler's bigger designs are well suited to sailing in the Philippines

[@MiQBohlin]

Wow! Now I understand you have been really busy with this project. And I must say I’m impressed by the finish of your saloon floors. I’d like to build my own cat but I have a sense about running out of time for a project like that, even though I really like to build and invent things. I think I should stay with my current boat and probably find a bigger one in some year. Still, the satisfaction of having everything under control and knowing every part of the construction would be extremely desirable. Good job my dear friend 🙏🏽

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you very much, Miq. Sometimes the boat you want is not available to be bought so you have to build. That happened to me three times! It's time for me to be satisfied with what I have. Time for some sailing instead of building. 😀 Still, if you get thinking about building, have a look at Bernd Kohler's KD850. If I lived by the ocean and was 20 years younger.....😇

[@davidmccauley7068]

Awesome build video and beautiful boat! Definitely an inspiration for my own build!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, David, and full speed ahead on your build.

[@EdToml]

Beautiful

[@TornState]

Nice video! I looked at the eco when I was researching the boat for me. I ended up designing my own trimaran but that eco looks so nice!

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks for your interest. I just had a quick check on your trimaran. That is one serious project. Wishing you continued perseverance to see it to completion. Just curious - where are you located? I see snow in one episode and it looks like wide open plains in another....

[@TornState]

@RodMcLaren The build is in Illinois USA. Near Chicago. I work on the boat consistently every weekend.... I just can't seem to get the same drive to cut a video every week. :/ I intend to splash it and start the great loop November 2024.

[@RodMcLaren]

@@TornState Well, you do much better than me in the video department. I took loots of photos on my phone as the build proceeded but if I had taken time to edit and publish videos as you have done, I would still be building! :) I will be cheering you on for that November splash.

[@jimmathieson9549]

Great choice of the Eco6, way more room and a seperate composting toilet, like the paint choice too

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks, Jim. Hope you find a building space (that is always a challenge in this climate) so then you can join me on the lake. And Rider Green would look good on your ECO 6!!

[@fisheater844]

Great build, enjoy your sailing adventures.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you. The ice is off the lake and I expect to be out sailing soon. Cheers, mate.

[@pironiero]

this is quality content

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you.

[@jimmathieson9549]

.rod, how does she sail? I followed your Mana ,now I am looking here and find you again, thanks,Jim

[@RodMcLaren]

Good morning, Jim. Nice to see you again. As you saw in the video, I was not able to go sailing on the day we launched the ECO. Shortly after that day, winter set in and so we are now waiting for spring to thaw the lakes. I plan to post videos of the ECO 6 under sail so watch for updates.

[@imthatimvernon]

Really nice build ROD…

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Vernon.

[@markgallagher1376]

Great video of the build process!! I saw pictures of your boat before and wondered if you used a Hobie 16 mast. I have a mast from a Hobie 16 I used to own. I am probably going to build an Eco 6 so it’s good to know I don’t have to find a mast for it. I’m planning a Duo 480C build first, though.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks, Mark. If you have a Hobie 16, hold on to ti for the ECO 6. And if you still have it, keep the mast base also. Wishing you a speedy build soon the 480C so you can get to the ECO 6.

[@markgallagher1376]

@@RodMcLaren yes, that is the plan for the mast. I don’t have the mast base, but those are easy enough to get. The 480 will serve my needs now for weekend camp cruising, but eventually I will want to do some more extended coastal cruising so I will build the ECO 6 for that when the time comes.

[@VadiodaXT]

Nice work 🙂

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you.

[@joshkaiser8583]

Very pretty boat build, do you by chance have a full boat tour video? I’d be very interested in seeing one as I’m giving serious thought to building a power cat version. Thanks

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks, Josh. Once I get some shots and video while sailing and overnighting this summer I plan on putting together a follow-up video, but not likely until after the sailing season.

[@joshkaiser8583]

@@RodMcLaren totally understand that! Enjoy your new boat in all its glory. I was just asking for it when you were able. Thanks again for sharing your build

[@SergeyLanets-w8x]

Отличная работа! Красивое исполнение и доведенный до конца проект! Здорово! А как ведет себя катамаран на сильной волне? Какую максимальную волну он может выдержать. Сергей. 69 лет. Россия

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Sergey. The boat handled well in the conditions we met this summer. I was unable to sail much this season and so have still not sailed the boat under challenging conditions. I am unable to answer your question definitively and now we wait for next season..

[@robertscholz4486]

I just found your channel ... great job on the build. I've been waffling back and forth for my build, in particular the choice between the ECO5.5 and ECO6. I noted that you fabricated a trailer for the Eco6 ... one of my problems with it is the beam of 9.3 feet -- trailering will require oversize permitting as local laws in my state restrict trailered boats to 96" (8 feet). Did you build yours to the 9.3 full beam? I have the length in my shop for the Eco 6, but i would have to reduce the beam to make it trailerable.

[@RodMcLaren]

Hi, Robert. I also had difficulty choosing between the 5.5 and the 6. An over-size permit is required here for a load over 8 feet but when I checked, I learned a single trip permit is $15 but an ANNUAL over-size permit only costs $30. That made the decision much easier. So far, the extra width has not been a problem for trailering, both in the city and on the highway. It just reminds one to take extra care, which applies anytime one is pulling a trailer. The extra width on the boat makes a very significant difference, not only in much greater accommodation within the cabin but also in additional stability when sailing and all with only an extra half metre of length and a few extra sheets of ply. I am happy I went for the ECO 6. If you are not already part of the K-Design online discussion group, check it out. A couple of builders of the 5.5 and another small Kohler design have expressed regret they didn't build the 6 instead.

[@jimmathieson9549]

Any Sailing Video or review of sailing Rod? Thanks…Jim

[@RodMcLaren]

My sailing was rather short this summer so not many clips to work with but with the boat put away for the winter I will make time to get something up. I am waiting for video from one of the boats I sailed with in July.

[@philboyer2036]

Good job Rod. I wish I had built the ECO 6 instead of the ECO 5.5. I will be extending the hulls to 6 meters this spring. I also have a series of build videos on my channel and my trip videos. My boat is a solar electric variation.

[@RodMcLaren]

Hi, Phil and thank you. I was very inspired by your epic voyage on the Trent Waterway. If it wasn't so far away.... 😀

[@toddlong8672]

Great video, and design choices. I have plans for the eco 5.5 . I found them of very poor quality, even though I very much appreciate the design. Curious if your plan quality you received. Also curious about your mama 24, which is my personal dream design. I wish he offered it in plan form. Salute to you sir, very fine work

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your comments, Todd. I hope you proceed with the building plans for the ECO 5.50. I did find my plans very challenging at the beginning, but with perseverance and advice and encouragement from David I was able to do the build. The plans which Mr Kohler provides are very similar to other plans I have seen and for those who have built many boats there is no problem. I had built two Wharram designs previously and they provide much more than building plans, which is why their plans cost so much more. If you have not already done so, I would encourage you to join the Forum for Kohler designs. There are others who have built the 5.50 design and other Kohler designs and they will be happy to share their knowledge and expertise. As for the Mana 24, I would not expect it to be offered as plans. If that is really your dream boat, then buy the kit and build one. The kit represents good value for all that it supplies - I doubt if you could save very much sourcing materials on your own. By the way, where are you located?

[@toddlong8672]

@@RodMcLaren I'm in Tacoma wa. USA. I'm not subscribed, but I reckon I've that I've run across and watched just about everything you've ever put on you tube. We may be birds of a feather. I've followed both Bernd and James for years (decades) and have bought plans from both. I'm currently in a 24' monohull, a man can dream though. Best wishes from Tacoma Washington

[@RodMcLaren]

@@toddlong8672 Morning, Todd, Tacoma, eh? Not so far away. Does your 24 foot mono have a trailer? Seeing as you've watched a bunch of my videos you must know about the Elbow Run. Why not join us in July and we can discuss your dream a bit further? We can swap study plans from James and Bernd. We leave Tuft's Bay July 13... Message me for more details. 😀

[@vadimlazarov6292]

Great job !!! Where to find a plans to build my own eco car with outboard engines ?

[@RodMcLaren]

If you mean a boat powered by an outboard motor, the Designer, Bernd Kohler has plans for two of his power boats listed on the Duckworks website duckworks.com/bernd-kohler/?page=2&mode=6 Look for the ECO 5.50 Power Cat design and the ECO 7.50 Power Cat design. His sailboat plans are also listed there. Happy building.

[@pascalblotiau]

Nice catamaran. What happened to the Mana 24 can’t wait to see sea trial. thank you

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you, Pascal. The Mana 24 is sailing on the Great Lakes and from all reports doing well. Sea trials for the ECO 6 coming up - as soon as the ice is off the lake! 😅

[@thesep1967]

High freeboard, a wave-catching prow and a high center of effort. Will be interesting in heavy seas.

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks for comment, Ano Nym. Perhaps you would come out of your anonymity and tell us your qualifications as a naval designer to make such a statement? We would be very interested to consider your assessment of the design. 😀

[@thesep1967]

@@RodMcLaren kzbin.info/www/bejne/iHiZqZeqnc-nb68

[@thesep1967]

​@@RodMcLaren ​ kzbin.info/www/bejne/l2qTm3etoJV_npI

[@ehofman7636]

You have make beautiful multihull I wish you a lot off pleasure with the boat

[@RodMcLaren]

Thank you for your comment

[@antoniiocaluso1071]

Heeyyyy...I built one of those, too!!! how's she sailing in 2024? I'm in SW FL, USA, and built mine in pre-2009(?), and this island coastline is fine for AMICA. I noticed a different bow design on yours, gaff, raised sides, and such. :-) And I've add more "Italiano-design" mods to mine...more curves! :-) I'm considering cutting the mast to go with the Kohler's Gaff sail option. skegs, huh, interesting!?? Must be best for your waters? My deck is a 2-part composite structure, as the cabin-deck, for rigidity. I've built boats before, too. Have we met before, Rod?? sure wish I'd seen your video beforehand...great job!! I used glassed structural foam for rudders, and up-deck steps, and a swing-down motor-mount. I'm starting a build for a small canalboat cat, to go inland more. old salty dog...new trick :-) buona fortuna, and I'll "stay tuned"!

[@RodMcLaren]

Hello, Antoniio, Yes, we have exchanged messages on the Facebook page you started and then you disappeared shortly before I began construction... What happened? Yes, I used the "new" bow design that Mr. Kohler added tot he design sometime after you built your boat. Our sailing season is about to begin for 2024, now that the ice is off the lake. I will be posting videos of the ECO 6 sailing, although that will likely be after the sailing season is over and I have more time. Perhaps you will be able to post some videos of your ECO 6 under sail sometime?

[@123rusty4]

Nice Job. and the only thing's missing in your yard ,,,,, is some old motor cycles .....

[@RodMcLaren]

Thanks, Rusty. No, no motorcycles but for a time I did rescue bicycles from landfills, repair them, and send them back on the street - about 250 bikes over 5 years, as I recall. During that time I built 4 recumbent bikes and trikes and 3 or four cargo bikes. The yard was filled with old bikes, much to the neighbour's displeasure. 😀 Nowadays it is filled with vegetable beds and a passive solar greenhouse.

[@belshoff7412]

Hi, I was very happy with your project, this mini catamaran is beautiful! Do you sell projects? If so I'm interested!

[@RodMcLaren]

Sorry - it's not for sale.

[@belshoff7412]

@@RodMcLaren No problem, your project is top notch!! success .

[@PaulWallis-c7y]

What is the size of the keel and skegs. Where did you place them on the hull. I can see them in your video but can't tell how far they are mounted from transom.

[@RodMcLaren]

How is your build going, Paul? The regular plans specify installing a daggerboard in the aft of the port hull. I decided to follow David's example and instead installed the bilge keels. I don't remember the exact dimensions or location - if you ask Mr. Kohler, I am sure he will be happy to send you drawings with the proper dimensions. On the drawing he sent me, he added the skegs and showed the dimensions. The installation of the bilge keels took me a considerable amount of time, and until I get some sailing done, I will not know for sure if I did it correctly.

[@PaulWallis-c7y]

@@RodMcLaren getting ready to fiberglass starburd hull. Port hull is runing behind. Not in a hurry cause then i would really make a mistake. It feels relaxing when i'm working on the boat .

[@RodMcLaren]

@@PaulWallis-c7y Sounds like you are making good progress. Yes, best to take time. I enjoyed my build time also.

[@markthomasson5077]

I suspect those keels will be a waste of time. Too small to be functional, will just slow you down. …..hope you prove me wrong! I have a Woods Gypsy, came with damaged LAR keels (she has dory shaped hulls). Still sails without, though doesn’t point well in low winds, and tacking suffers. I am about to add keels, not dissimilar to yours! Though mine will sit on the outer edge of each hull. 20cm deep, 90-150cm long. She will also get a lee board, 40cm wide, 80cm deep.

[@markthomasson5077]

You appear to have some enclosed spaces. If so my advice is that every space should be ventilated, with two openings. Of course with hatches to close at sea. Glad to see you did epoxy coat before assembly, did this include the framing? I only comment have bought an old ply boat that was not the bargain I had hoped for!

[@fauvewalker3648]

That’s a lot of work, why that design though?

[@RodMcLaren]

Gee, I hoped my video answered that question. So all I can add is "just because". 😀

[@andriyvasilenko64]

Great!