Stern Mock Up [E31]

[@TheDuracellProject]

Hey folks! Reading the comments coming in, I'm realizing that I didn't explain, in this episode, WHY I am going to build a dual helm. There are compelling reasons and I owe an explanation to y'all in the next episode.

[@williambremner9022]

Dual helms have many advantages: 1) ease of movement in/out/thru cockpit and transom, especially when hauling big items/sails etc in/out of the boat; 2) the ability to comfortably hand steer on the windward side of the boat which greatly enhances one's visibility and ability to spot gusts and wind shifts - it also makes watching hazards on either side of the boat much easier while steering on a given side; and 3) enhanced safety through redundancy of steering wheels should one get damaged in a knockdown or something similar (which keeps you one step away from using the dreaded emergency tiller). I'm all for dual helms! The sitting to windward while steering is fantastic!

[@williambremner9022]

Additionally: I owned a racing yacht (Sydney40) with a massive single carbon wheel that was approx 40% recessed in a well in the cockpit sole and we all got so tired of walked around it when moving fore/aft. Sure, it looked cool and felt great to drive but it was too big and blocked too much. I've also owned racing yachts with twin wheels (TP52, King40 and now a Jeanneau53) and I have to say I much prefer them to a single wheel (for reasons I've stated above). With the size of your doghouse you will thank yourself for having purpose-designed helming stations port/stbd and all the way to windward on the rail to enable visibility and helming comfort.

[@hondacota4rt]

@@williambremner9022 for someone who has no idea about sailing, your comments helped a lot. Thanks.

[@jeremyrowley1240]

@@williambremner9022 I always sit to leeward and look through the slot to see tell tails on the foresail. You can't see them from the windward helm.

[@lilianadomenech296]

I get your reasoning for dual helms but the single plam Markos designed with the side steps is fantastic. Climbing over seats every time to go forward is cumbersome.

[@IndustriousPursuits]

I Definitely vote for Marcos's design. It looks so much more like high end contemporary boat design.

[@FunsongsMusicByPeterRahill]

Agree... seems to have many advantages... and much less 'cluttered'. It's shaping up to look like a proper and comfortable cruiser... at least it does from my 'Captain's chair' in front of the computer... aka "The Peanut Gallery". :0)

[@paulmahowald4970]

Marco’s design gives much better access to the winches

[@islandonlinenews]

I disagree, the other design has more/better seating and space for ropes and storage. Also a great/fun spot to stand, I love to stand on the back corner of my boat.

[@josephhertzberg2734]

Man, it's a very personal decision, I get that 100%, but Marcos' design has an elegance and efficiency and simplicity of form. God, it's gorgeous.

[@tomandalbert]

Markos design is spot on. Remember you or your guests get old or tired. Having Markos signatory touches gives The Duracell Project it's the Midas touch.

[@leonply]

That single helm mock up is inspired. The boat is so narrow that a double helm configuration would end up being a hindrance when you're cruising. Also, the steps on the sides, leading to the deck, adds an incredible amount of safety when you're on the water. It's all looking amazing! 5/30/22 edit: Looking at the video again, I'm still a fan of the single helm mock up. My thought is that it might be a "versa helm" with a smaller wheel, allowing the helmsman to sit/stand on either side, having a full side view in a long reach. This also maintains an uncluttered look, even though it might skimp a bit on seating, with the steps leading up to the deck sides (safety first!). As the idea for this boat is to be a cruiser, rather than a racer, I can't imagine packing it with twelve or more people at a time, when the interior is being designed for one couple and possibly a few guests.

[@Tomm9y]

Much better to invest in multiple autopilots.

[@michaelvanwinkle7919]

Single helm seems to be more realistic for a cruising boat. Do you plan on a helm in the dog house?

[@marcryvon]

@@michaelvanwinkle7919 I agree. Double helms may be great for racing, but for cruising... not sure.

[@DarylSaunders737]

Marco's design was stunning and practical. It had a very Italian feel about it. Loved it, love the boat and your doing a great job with the boat and the channel.

[@NibuleChanel]

First of all, thanks to Markos. That's a pretty sweet move he did for you guys. For the design I think that the single helm is the better solution. Here are my arguments: -Like many mention I think the stern isn't large enough for dual helm -The point of Markos for visibility through the doghouse is good (if the door is open or transparent) -If you are cruising more than racing, you are probably be under autopilot most of the time (no need for that extra comfort for each tac) The only cons to Markos design is that you will lose a little bit of storage with those stairs (but I personalty like them). This is just my opinion do whatever you want with it, it's your boat. Love your project, keep up the good work

[@cascadesouthernmodeltrains7547]

I really like the single wheel with the step ups on the sides. I know it’s a more complex shape to build, but I think it would really look and work well for Duracell.

[@peterparsons7141]

Your designer is worth his weight in gold. Listen to what he says. Your designs are interesting, his designs are superior.

[@ninja1antelope]

Love Markos’ design! What a lovely offer!

[@cliffjamerson3107]

The single wheel seems less expensive and maybe simpler, looking good great progress

[@yachticus]

the single helm has a ton of advantages - significantly less hardware for which keeps control of costs - the step up idea is a bit of genius and would seem to be a thing with a range of new yachts coming along. lets hope you are not too far along you cant take a slight diversion

[@rsrguy]

Sure but on the heal and beating he'll see fine. Personally I'd probably have built raised helms under a hard top right behind the doghouse(stepped hard top) for protection in weather and viz... But it's not my dream now is it.

[@Jester123ish]

@@rsrguy Yes, this. It's bugging me too. At 3am on a cold and wet night, those positions are going to be very unappealing. I guess he'll add some shelter?

[@clivestainlesssteelwomble7665]

How about a single versa helm ..so you can set the helm either side or between at various angles?

[@Gottenhimfella]

@@clivestainlesssteelwomble7665 Indeed. Like the Sirius 40DS canting wheel. It's genius. Gives you all the benefits of a large dia single wheel (and is almost as simple) as well as taking the least space of any option, and clearing the central aisle.

[@clivestainlesssteelwomble7665]

@@Gottenhimfella Thank you... I think thats the monohull i first saw it on but couldnt remember ...the other older dodge is the folding rim wheel to ease movement past the binnacle at anchor . Given the power of this vessel in a blow its going to need hydraulic steering anyway. So why go for large wheels.

[@lizhanson7239]

Loved the naval architect single helm design, practical, beautiful and financially a win

[@jimmcdonald9244]

Love Markos' design. He's right - with the current doghouse visibility your twin helms don't provide as much visibility as the single, central helm. Looks more elegant too.

[@GordDiv]

Single helm for sure. The hull just isn’t wide enough to accommodate, or require, the dual wheel design Keep up the (impressive) good wor

[@SteelDoesMyWill]

I don't know if he cares much about the 'cool' factor, but I love really large diameter wheels that are recessed into the cockpit sole, big enough to diameter to sit on the windward quarter and still reach the wheel from either side. Then again, those big wheels really take up space from movement around it and I'm sure a good bit of dirt gets down in that wheel pocket (plus the added complexity of drains below).

[@mikejansen1515]

Definitely the single helm from Markos. He did stunning design, and definitely more practical. Keep up the good work👍👍

[@troublekaliman]

Markos design is definitely something to really consider!

[@fisheater844]

Man I loved Marco’s design very stylish a wider flat area behind the seats, ok slightly less storage and his points about only one steering station and clear vision forward, fantastic to see the help your getting. Can’t wait for your next upload.

[@superdrive2235]

Kudos for doing such a shout-out and including Marco and his design efforts (which I love) in the video.

[@000gjb]

The Sirius 40 has a single wheel that in the centre of the cockpit and can stand upright or pivot to Port or Starboard so you can steer the boat sitting on the gunwale on either side, a lot less complicated than two helms. Could be good to add a stow away tiller and a spare rudder for emergencies or at least limit how much angle the rudder can be pushed back so the boat can be steered in case of the rudder being damaged.

[@careylogan7639]

Lookin' good !!! I enjoyed the bits and pieces from Markos. He is light years ahead of me in CAD.

[@knolltop314]

You and friends are the epitome of, "where there's the will, there's a way".

[@Conan-ny1um]

It’s not my boat but I’m a fan of the single helm. Safety and room are paramount.

[@BonnyDunn]

Marcos design is slick but I think using the benches as steps gives you more cockpit space as I believe your plan is. It was really awesome to see the design process from Marco’s and understand the lines. You mentioned a waterproof compartment in that rear compartment. Are you planning to put the door on the vertical or on the horizontal … I know technically the area above the swim platform should be relatively dry but any door on the vertical creates a weak point doesn’t it? This is so cool seeing everything taking shape and seeing all the connections you’ve made with local boat building expertise and now Greece.

[@rsrguy]

Stoked and excited for you. Keep rolling hard! If you have to build another plywood mold surface again, try 3m 77 light coat then cheap packing tape and peel ply. The ply will pull off easily and as long as you don't forget the peel ply you'll be golden!

[@stomp4423]

Well, I guess everyone else chimed in so I might as well also. Single helm ftw. Being on many different boats my entire life I can tell you that your eyesight will naturally be directed towards center, so why fight it and be out of position with duals? Anyway, his step ups to the deck are the way. You'll be jumping over those benches many more times than you can imagine and that alone be dread. You need to flow seamlessly thru the boat when moving about, especially during a gail. Either way, great project, one of my favs.

[@ablemarine9072]

Thumbs Up for single helm! Less equipment, more useable space and centered to increase visibility etc. Congrats on Marcos input. Love the project

[@eugenechristadore4344]

Like the single helm better, less moving parts and maintenance to perform. Also centrally locates electronics

[@mjf1036]

Single helm layout look great. Nice that Marco offered to help with these design areas.

[@heyjer8000]

Go with the pro - that design is beautiful!

[@lonniekropf808]

The cockpit mockup looks great! I really enjoy watching it come together.

[@frederikschiemsky3030]

Amazing job, we live on a 84 ft klipper from 1894 and sail a 50ft sailboat from 1964. It is inspiring to watch the video’s !greeeetz from Antwerp, Belgium.

[@mr.e7022]

single helm, one less item to buy, install and maintain. Simple is king.

[@somerset2912]

I love Marco's design but I prefer the dual helm design. Having that open walkway from the doghouse to the transom is huge for unloading/unloading, and gives the whole cockpit a much more open feel. Its so nice to be able to lay down in the cockpit during long passages as well.

[@MaShcode]

Always a good idea to walk about the flora & fauna. Helps me think through problem solving. Come back with new ideas, have some brew and dig in. The woodland looks mossy and verdant. Must smell nice.

[@niklasxl]

damn, the stern is starting to look so good :D its probably really good for motivation seeing it take shape

[@dreoneful]

They both look amazing you are awesome Markos

[@doradosurfcharters]

Nice progress and nice renders

[@dcallan812]

Lots more under seat lockers. What a great guy Markos is. His design would save cost on streering gear and improve visibility. I might go for a mix, the seating that you want with a single wheel;. But its you're boat built it for you.

[@BrianRhodes9763]

Great episode Matt, the stern is really starting to take shape. personally I like the the single helm concept, but that's just an opinion and preference. You are the one that has to live with it and build it.

[@john3Lee]

Thanks - I find the manufacturing process of this project fascinating.... Cheers

[@gillesgomez3091]

What a great project. It's fascinating to see the pieces of this huge 3-D puzzle slowly coming to the right place. Congratulations for the mock up. It is a great tool to validate the project.

[@donnakawana]

I'm excited for everything your doing here!! Thanks for sharing your life with us✌🏼💗😊❣️

[@TheDuracellProject]

Thanks Donna!

[@5fingers1]

so much more room in the cockpit way more than expected great job 👍

[@samuelnaugher4280]

Your progress is great! Thanks for showing your thought processes. I am fan of the single helm for simplicity but your design of the large seating area in the cockpit is very practical. The video editing and quality is on point and I enjoy hearing about your patrions at the end.

[@stevecasperson6112]

Great work, love what you are doing. I had a thought about integrating the step from the swim platform halfway up the angled side on both left/right sides "boxing it in" to create what would look like "armrests of a sofa". Just a thought... Best of luck and I look forward to seeing you succeed!

[@Bruin4Life]

Wow, I love the design that Marcos came up with as it will give you a more wide open cockpit with a single helm station which also will reduce your building costs. I don’t know what type of keel you will have, but you can have a skew hung rudder which will provide protection for your rudder and reduce the rebuild costs also. Marcos’s cockpit design looks like it would give you easier access when it is necessary to go forward on the yacht and great access to your winches when you are sailing single handed while the wife is resting down below or cooking, etc. The double helm stations take up too much room and cuts down on the open space in the cockpit in my humble opinion. The yacht is really starting to take the shape you are looking for, and I am and looking forward to more of your collaboration with Marcos and Pete.

[@Brian-os9qj]

Those single helm step cockpit mock-ups were awesome. And speaking of TESC, Ben Boyce has ‘Cat-dried’ spirit

[@dray050653]

Game changer on the project "Marco's" talent and input is fabulous!

[@lilliecrane2106]

Each video so impressive of your work and dedication. I’m excited to see it when it’s finished!

[@georgepeat5269iearth]

Nice when worlds work together. Project is rolling well it seems, lots of work. Enjoying seeing changes& modifications. The sailing Dashews would enjoy seeing this work. Good Health to you all!

[@jplater9191]

The Marcos design fits the space perfectly. Ergonomically and as far as esthetics go. I would follow the experience he brings to the project.

[@oddsends6048]

Marcos. Excellent attention to UI design considerations.

[@andysimons9226]

I find watching you work so hard very relaxing. Maybe it's because you so obviously love what you're doing. As for the discussion over the single/dual helm, I do like Markos' but I'm very keen to hear the compelling argument you put forward for your design. It will be a fabulous boat either way.

[@markosthiraios]

Such amazing comments from everyone! Thank you so so much everybody for your good words and for sharing your opinions! I want to mention, that I read a comment (which I couldn't find to directly reply) about integrating the "Single Pivot Wheel" like the yachts from Sirius. When I started to 3D Model Matt's 2D plans, I actually thought of integratimg that feature for the steering wheel in the cockpit but after some research I discovered that this feature is a patent pending from Sirius. If I'm not mistaken, I believe it is illegal to use this copyrighted patent without the permission of Sirius.

[@Gottenhimfella]

I couldn't find such a patent, or any reference to it online. Even if they had, it only applies if you do it the exact same way they stipulate in their patent. There are a number of ways of achieving that result, some of which were "prior art" (had already been used before Sirius) and hence even if Sirius had patented them, the patent would not sustain a legal challenge. Finally, it's unlikely Sirius would pursue an action against a single private builder who is not making a commercial gain. Infringing patents is not a criminal offence, so companies have to incur the expense of mounting a legal challenge themselves (ie the government or judiciary does not do so) and this would make little sense in a case like this.

[@PaulAnthonyDuttonUk]

Marcos.. With this design would it be possible to add two tillers to the rear quarters connected to the rudder for that high side helming experience without too much complication? PS. Love your design. I mentioned elsewhere that it gives back holistically to what the new dog house has taken away.

[@davidbarrett7424]

Lovely design and renders 😁 What cad package did you use?

[@BigHeinen]

Markos design also has much fewer mechanical actuators and cables than the twin wheel design. The sight lines through the doghouse are clearer which will aid in navigation. Simpler is always better. I also like to easy step access to the sides of the boat.

[@Swilliamf]

For sure do Marcos' design! It was so classy looking

[@heronemosheppard5401]

You guys are AWESOME!!! Great job on design, production and video producing.

[@wesley00042]

Another vote for Marko's design

[@meedacz3985]

Markos’ design is amazing. I like it

[@elrig9573]

SO exciting Matt!!

[@bendaves77]

Markos design is the best one .. imo.. makes more sense and it's ergonomical

[@TheHiground]

LOVE the single wheel!

[@gregbolitho9775]

Marcos done real good, Nice work on the boat your doin too. Keep up the good work m8s. Kool Cat too!

[@Rubinho1977]

Great job and very interesting 3D views from Marcos. Perhaps had a tiny declinitivity to the swim step to avoid water to stagnate on it.

[@jeffcondell]

It absolutely transforms the look of the boat.

[@markgreen7701]

It's a lot bigger than I thought it would be! Nice!

[@wellingtonkiwi1799]

Wow. Nice Design from Marcos. I hope you adopt his design.

[@MarcelEling]

Nice new draw of the cockpit and sideway

[@jeremyallard5652]

Matt this vision is fantastic good luck with the build. It’s great that you have the architects assistance in Greece.

[@belledetector]

Really like this project. Coming along nicely.

[@jorgenr]

A big advantage to Markos’ design is that I think it’ll be easier to single hand. Having the main winches within reach of the windward helm position is important when you’re alone on watch. A large cockpit is nice for socializing, but less than ideal for shorthand sailing.

[@pedrogodoy523]

I`m enjoying this good job you`re doing! congratulations!!

[@PN_48]

Another great vid guys and I’m really liking the simplicity of the cockpit and transom. Elegant yet functional, and less time building will mean being back in the water sooner / more time sailing. I can see merits in both single and dual helm - my big push would be for a lightweight fixed bimini covered in solar. Looking forward to watching the next vid from our new project!

[@TheDuracellProject]

Thanks Nathan! A light weight Bimini that can support solar would be cool. We do also have a huge amount of space on the doghouse roof for solar.

[@allistairneil8968]

I think your aft conversion extension is pure genius and well done. Single helm imho.

[@TAT660X]

I like the single wheel design 😎 As for the locker behind the swim step that screams beer fridge lol

[@katjiepiering7059]

I love the single helm and how he situated the seating with the step Its elegant

[@kjohnson6159]

Remember mike 😁😂was a good friend. I am so excited

[@TheDuracellProject]

love that you're watching. We think about him :)

[@Tomm9y]

Unless someone has sailed raced, cruised extensively, appropriate design is difficult. I would create vertical sides to the swim step up to side deck level, this would create more storage, a safer cockpit. There is also the need to reduce the cockpit volume v drainage to be able to minimise the effect of very large waves in mass, speed of drainage and crucially crew safety. Access to the side decks is much less important than a secure cockpit, where in a squall water from heeling stays on the side decks all the way aft. For a cruising boat twin wheels wastes a lot of space, adds weight and complexity, decent length cockpit seats, more storage, is far more valuable. Remember only a small amount of time is spent helming the boat, most people time on deck is in the cockpit. Invest in better sail management, multiple autopilots. Importantly a watertight bulkhead forward of the rudder stock is vital in a fin keel / unskeged boat. Try sailing a boat at night, shortcrewed (i.e. alone on watch), but keep in mind the liveability at anchor. I like the mockups, easy to visualise, I think some changes could be incorporated, using the pre-glassed foam panels. Love the cat walk!

[@Aucklandsaltwaterflyfishing]

Such a great project, Totally inspired for all things life.

[@dodgecoronet7544]

The OSB is not staying I hope . Its a none water proof sponge . Love what you are doing can't wait for more !!

[@TheDuracellProject]

Just a mock up

[@spookhunter17]

Matt when you do the interior design make sure to look up Human ergonomic design dimensions. We use them to properly size everything on a boat including your winch positions. Historically the average height/size of a person was smaller which is why older boats are smaller headroom, shorter seats etc. Normally when we design yachts we put a kickback on a seat so that when seated instead of your heels being vertically in line with your knees you can slide your heels back towards your bum 2-3". It just makes it more comfortable to sit for a long period of time at them. I'm a Naval architect also out of Glasgow.

[@braspatta]

Amazing progress!

[@jimedson3853]

Thanks for the video! I always learn a lot and it's fun to watch the progress.

[@martinbeaumont1135]

The side deck style Marcos designed looks excellent, and by using something like Divinycell you can get those compound curves from the design rather than sticking to flat panels everywhere.

[@mememe5231]

Just my two cents. The only downside I can see to Marcos design. Is the shortened benches. Is there still enough space to lay down on the benches? Important on a cruising boat. To me at least. I understand the reasoning for the double wheel, but the extra gear and complexity my not be worth the time and money. Folding wheels work well. Just my opinion. Great video!

[@jeremykamel9655]

Wow, this is coming along nicely! You’re going to end up with a great boat. Keep in mind that if you end up with Lithium then you’ll be reducing weight to at least partially offset what happens with a stern arch and solar. You can’t have to much solar.

[@brucerazor5202]

I can see one thing for sure, you are probably going to loose a lot of round objects off the back end,😂 I’m very impressed by your skill. Great job

[@willumverberne9663]

Love the single steering design

[@emilebauer4956]

Beau travail...tu possèdes les connaissances nécessaires, j'ai remarqué les cartes sur les murs de ton atelier...sans aucun doute tu vas aboutir, bravo. Je souhaiterai le voir naviguer...

[@gandalf2439]

Looks as if you are growing your own crew so , congrats all round .

[@ThoughtfulWander]

Nice progress!! Keep rolling!! 👍👍👊👊

[@terrysmall1421]

is the swim step high enough above the waterline? would love your thoughts on the rights and wrongs of that. and single wheel gets my vote as long as seats long enough to sleep on.

[@glennedwards1449]

Markos cockpit design is way better not because of the improved visibility it could be argued that you have less visibility when docking. Not because it looks way cooler. The reason it is superior is that you have 1 less helm wheel and 4 less winches which is not only a cost saving but less ongoing maintenance and less to go wrong. Which is in line with your building methodology.

[@alljunk4824]

All 13:30 that area under the deck appears to be big enough to slip a RIB in there, that would be a fantastic "garage" and just like that no more darn dinghy on the foredeck and think of the extra life that it would give to any material including Hypalon. Is the extension aft following the shape of the hull from a bird-eye's view or just continuing with the same breath of the hull?

[@shaneriehl223]

Fantastic. Great job.

[@forgetn]

You mentioned a bimini, I saw on a cat a rather interesting concept where the "Hard Top" was only a framework for solar panels, hence you have the rigidity of a hardtop, but the weight is much less because the hard bit is only a framework to support solar panels (also a window to keep an eye on the mainsail) -- the panels were cocked so in the rain the cockpit remains dry. two benefits are easy replacement of panels and also keep the panels cooler and therefore more efficient (better ventilation). Now, I really understand why you wanted flat planes it makes total sense that way building will be easier. As for the twin or single helm. How often do you actually sail the boat manually when you are cruising? Most of the time the helms are for port operations and then a side helm can be very handy with such a large vessel. Also, your design with 4 winches on each side means ALL the lines are brought into the cockpit, much safer for a cruiser Amazing absolutely amazing how fast you are moving, considering you have a full-time job.

[@utwings]

On the swim step, your storage should be for the life raft and a go bag w/provisions. Easy to grab even if the boat flips as there is nothing blocking you.

[@murrayfleming8038]

Marcos design was HOT!!! Single helm :)

[@ianrusso8790]

I really like Markos design, so innovative and beutiful, I defenately prefer the one wheel design not that it means anything, but I wish I could do that to my boat!!