PORTABLE BOAT PLANS of Arizona

PLAN, EXECUTE and ENJOY !

 Updated: Dec 1 - 2021

Welcome to Portable Boat Plans of Arizona.

All of the Portable Boat Designs Require No Trailer for Transport !

All of the boats are easily built from readily available Plywood and TiteBond 3 Wood Glue.

 Most designs incorporate the 'Tape & Glue Assembly Process'  developed by the Designer.

This website is tablet friendly.

http://www.duckworksbbs.com/category-s/127.htm

The 1 SHEET WEDGE -  It may look like some of my other wedge designs, but it differs in one  important aspect; the basic hull is constructed primarily from one sheet of 1/4 inch plywood.  At 8' x 2.5' x 1.25' and 30 pounds, it is an ultra simple 2 module design, with all straight lines, that is easy to build and operate by a single occupant.  Less than $100 to build. The plans are FREE for the asking.   (Oct. 2015)

1 SHEET +  is an attempt to make a nice looking, good performing small boat out of a single sheet of plywood. With a 30" beam and a length of 88", the boat achieves 4 mph with a trolling motor. Of course it can be rowed and paddled too. Costing about $100 to construct, and capable of a 6 foot 190 pound occupant, it can be many things to many people. Stable and strong, and it fits in most any vehicle for transport.  (Aug 2011)

This 1 Sheet hull is not unlike the others, but it has been simplified to the limit. Primarily intended to be a mono-hull, it can be constructed as a 2 module, for ease of transport. Probably the least expensive to build.  (7/2020)

AQUA SPORT CRUISER - An 8 footer designed specifically for small gas outboards, and those with limited storage and transport space. Ideal for the lone fisherman, or for just exploring new waterways. Easy to set up, and unlimited duration, depending on your on-board gas supply, unlike a trolling motor.    (MAY 2017)

COMPOSITE CRUISER - The primary purpose of this design was to build a small pram style boat that was ultra-lightweight, easy and inexpensive to build, was unsinkable, and used Coroplast plastic as the hull material. The "CC" is less than 30 pounds empty, and it fits in almost any vehicle for transport. The construction is simple, and only handyman tools are required to build it. The basic hull can be constructed in just a week. Plans are 28 pages with photos. Gets a lot of attention at the water.   (Sept 2012)

CPB-2016  Is a 8' Coroplast Pram design that can be made in a day, fit in any car, and enjoyed for years. Especially designed for younger builders. The essence of this design lies in it's simplicity. Contrary to my previous Coroplast hulls, this one is all folds, and only a single cut. With a capacity of 220 pounds, almost anyone can enjoy the freedom of boating, many for the first time !     (April 2016)

The plans of the CPB-CANOE are now complete. As you can see from the enclosed photos, the hull can be folded down the middle for storage and transport, in an 8 foot length, about 3 inches thick. But, it can also be folded in half again to create a 4 foot length, about twice as thick, for transport in any vehicle. At this time water tests still remain, due to my eye problems.  (JULY 2016)

DUET Utility Boat - A two or three module transportable that has the capacity to hold a small family. With built-in safety buoyancy and generous freeboard, it can provide great family fun. Easy to build and assemble at the water, it fits in all trucks and suv's, no trailer required. With a 500 pound capacity and ample storage, it also makes a great fishing boat or tender, easily handled by a single person.   (May 2011)

EASY ONE  is so named because of it's portability and set-up. Just a few simple steps from vehicle to water, then the easy part begins, safely cruising around your favorite water spot. This is the third generation of the "wedge" hull shape design, and it incorporates the previous builders suggestions for greater freeboard, dry storage and a sail rig option. Rugged yet lightweight, the Easy One makes a great utility boat, and with an added center module, can seat two in comfort.    (December 2013)

EXPLORER 2 - Is a simple to build, 2 module portable boat, ideal for cruising small lakes, ponds and tributaries. It is much like a traditional rowboat, but nests to fit in the back of most vehicles. It can be rowed or powered by a trolling motor, and is suitable for a single occupant. It is 8' long and 32" wide, with good freeboard, and minimum draft. With a cost of around $100 to build, plus accessories, it is a good boat for those just getting into the boat building hobby.   (Aug 2009)

Plans of the EXPLORER 3 are now complete. It's primary advantage over the Explorer 2 is the freeboard provided by the 15 inch high sides. As a result, it has greater load capacity.  (JULY 2016)

The F.I.T. - This new wedge design is intended to satisfy the needs of many boaters. In it's basic single occupant form, 8' long, it will Fit In the Trunk of most autos. But, scale it up to 12' in length, and you can seat 3 comfortably. And, it can easily be converted into a simple day sailer.     (Aug 2015)

This is a simple yet unique hull design. As noted in the cover page, it is stand up stable, and therefore can be used by all fishermen, and women, to safely traverse ponds and lakes, without the fear of falling out of the boat. 

FOAM BOAT -  A single occupant, two module nesting design that is constructed of 1 inch polyfoam sheets, and reinforced with fiberglass cloth. The result is a 30 pound craft that is easy to transport and easy to paddle, and literally sits on top of the water. It can also be outfitted with a trolling motor. The hull design is unique for a boat this size, and utilizes my "skin on foam" construction process. No epoxy used ! Cost to build about $150.    (Mar 2012)

KWIKY -  is the second generation of the folding kayak. It folds in half, to a 4 foot length, a 28 inch width and a 2 inch thickness, so that it will fit in any vehicle for transport. Made of 5MM plywood, with enhanced edge seals, it weighs only 20 pounds. But, the biggest new feature is the redesigned aft end that can now accept an optional trolling motor. To achieve this feature, the hull shape has been revised for greater buoyancy. The benefit is an increased payload capacity.  (Feb 2014)

Micro CAMPER CRUISER  is a scaled down MINI, and will sleep one comfortably, and seat two in tandem. Built lightweight, it can be transported by all trucks, vans, suv's and some hatch backs, and even a bicycle !  Stand up steady, it will make a great weekender for the sole hunter and fisherman, or woman. The cost to build is a modest $200, plus outfitting. Plenty of room to stow gear, and will travel 4 mph with a trolling motor. Will accept a small (2.5 hp) gas motor with transom modifications.  Plus, a Sail option too !   (Aug 2015)

Sept 04, 2015: - A 2 occupant sleeper version has just been added to the plans. It is 48 inches wide, and can support up to 500 pounds.  Sept. 20, 2016: The final page of the plans was developed, hull & motor testing at the lake.  Dec. 3, 2016:  Build for the Sail Option is complete, waiting for good weather for testing.

The MICRO CC SAIL version is now complete. The data shown on the plans pages are the latest and depict my method chosen to rig the boat. The materials used are commonly available, and the attached information should give you sufficient information to make the decision to build this option of the MICRO Camper Cruiser.  (Dec. 2016)

The MICRO Sail Boat is a departure in design. It is modular, 3 to be exact, but it's core is pure 3 Meter Sailboat. Ideally suited to the novice sailor, it features many options, from foot steering and boom-less sail, to a unique method of keeping the hull erect in heavy winds. Buoyancy chambers, both forward and aft, add to the safety aspect of the design. The concept is from the fertile mind of Craig Titmus, the originator of the Mini Camper Cruiser.  Complete build plans are now available.   (Aug 2015)

MINI CAMPER CRUISER -  A real unique design by Craig Titmus of Tasmania, Australia. A boat with a capacity of 750 pounds on the water, converts to a 7 foot camper with accommodations for 2 adults. At 4' wide and 12' long it is stable and roomy. When folded in half it can fit in the bed of a pickup, or on a small flat bed trailer. Empty weight is about 130 pounds, plus gear, and it is easily fabricated with common shop tools. 

It's great for those weekend excursions.  (Feb 2013)

MINI-CAT -  This is a small twin-hull platform boat design, which was the Design Contest Winner for 2012. Comfortable for 2 people with gear, it can fit in any truck, van or suv. Builders options include a trolling motor, sun canopy and enclosed cooler. Stable, lightweight and easy to build. Simplicity at it's best. Ideal for fishing or just casual boating. Pontoons are 8' long and the deck is 4' wide.  Bring your sleeping bag for an overnight !  

Low in cost to build and operate.  (May 2012)  

The MINIMALIST is the newest of the wedge shape hulls, but with a difference !  It is a monohull, only a single module 7 feet in length. It will fit in some trucks and suv's, but at only 30 pounds, it can easily be car topped. It has a great load capacity for such a small boat, and is rugged and secure. Best of all, it costs only about $75 to build !    

(July 2018)

The 8' Mini Skimmer is a new design specifically directed toward those free spirits of Paddle Boarding.  

(May 28, 2019)

MPDR - MODULAR PD RACER was designed for those that want the PDR experience, but prefer not to trailer it. This 3 module nesting version is true to the hull design criteria, while providing in vehicle transport. Approved by Shorty Routh, the PDR originator, the modular version has good interior room and can accept all PDR options, and it is class legal to race.  The plans are FREE for the asking !      

(Mar 2011)

POD-2  (Paddle On Demand) - This is a redesign of a very popular boat, expressly intended for the younger generation. It is easy to cut out and assemble, with straight sides and minimal curves. It has built-in safety buoyancy, and can be fitted with a small sail rig. At only 6' long and 30" wide, it folds in half for transport. A great project to get kids interested in boat construction. The plans are FREE for the asking.    

 (Apr 2010)

POLLYWOG - This is one of the larger boats in the fleet. It can hold 2 adults and 2 children. Composed of two nesting modules, it can fit in all trucks and suv's, and some wagons. Adapts easily to a trolling motor or small outboard, and is ruggedly constructed of 1/4 inch plywood. The boat is ideally suited as a tender or launch, and makes a great fishing boat. Built-in seating and buoyancy chambers for safety. Also available is a sail rig set of plans designed specifically for the Pollywog, see below.     (Feb 2009)

QUAD - A 4 module, 11 foot long, multi-purpose boat. Primarily designed as a 2 occupant canoe, it can also be used as a 3 module motorized skiff. All 4 modules nest to allow transport in any truck or suv. Wide and stable, yet smooth through the water, it is easy to build, and costs less than $150.  Total empty weight is about 50 pounds. Ruggedly built, goes anywhere, and because it seats two, you won't be alone.     (Sept 2013)

RIVER ROVER - This is a new boat, specifically designed for shallow water use, and can be constructed in different lengths and widths. The size you need is dependent on load and the number of occupants desired.  Much like a pirogue, the longer hull provides for greater gear stowage, and smoother water transit. Easy to build, the two hull modules stack for travel. The 8 footer will fit in all SUV's, and some cars. The others require a truck or van for transport.   (Aug 2015)

SIMPLE 8' PRAM -  A wide and stable design, constructed of 1/4" plywood for strength and durability. The two modules fold on top of each other for a transport size of 4' long, 3' wide and 2' high. Capable of accommodating 2 adults, it makes a great hunting or fishing boat, to get into those hard to reach areas. Row, paddle or trolling motor powered.  The plans are FREE for the asking.    (Aug 2013)

SIMPLE 9 - A kayak like, 3 module portable boat. Constructed of lightweight plywood, it weighs only 40 pounds. It's 9 foot length and 30 inch beam give it good performance and stability in the water. It gets it name from what it is: Simple-Inexpensive-Multipurpose-Portable-Lightweight-Easy to build. An ideal starter boat for all ages. Fits in most cars and all trucks and suv's.  The plans are FREE for the asking.    (Nov 2010)

This is the NEW simple version of a Duckboat design. It embodies all the characteristics of the original Toter, but with a wider hull for stability and greater room for the hunting dog. It is also unsinkable with built in flotation.  (March 2017)

FREE for the asking !

TOTER 2 - The updated version of the original Toter, can now seat 2 in tandem. This new design can also be fitted as a daysailer. All this in a size that fits in most cars, and all trucks and suv's. It also has built-in buoyancy, but still nests to store in less than 5 square feet of floor space. The 3 modules easily bolt together for fast assembly at the water, and the refined structure will provide years of service.  (May 2010)

TOTER 2 SAIL -  Completes the design cycle for this series. With a mainsail and a jib, the boat is capable of some fun sailing, and it can accommodate 2 occupants. All the attributes of the Toter 2 are enhanced with the sail rig, making the boat a true multi-tasker. With built-in safety buoyancy and a short, wide sail, the boat is safe for almost anyone to operate. The controls are always at hand, and easy to manage. All components fit in the center module for storage and transport.    (June 2010)

U2-HULLZ ,  is a wedge design that takes it to the next level. The builder has the option to construct any of 5 defined hull sizes, or anything else of their choosing. The plans are complete, and provide the builder with many options which will personalize their boat.    (Nov 2015)

ULTRA PRAM -  The concept of Roland Moose, who needed a roomy and rugged fishing boat that had ample storage for gear and camping equipment. At a little over 8 feet long and 4 feet wide, with 18 inch sides, the design provides seating room for 2 adults and 2 children. An optional 3rd center module increases the capacity to carry 4 adults easily. All this, and it fits in the bed of most trucks, suv's and motor homes. The cost to build should be under $225.   (Jan 2011)

WATER SCOOTER -  This is a departure from the hull designs normally found on this site. It's a sit on, rather than a sit in hull shape, intended to be both practical and fun. At 3 feet wide and 8 feet long, when the 2 modules are disassembled and stacked, it can fit in all trucks, suv's and most hatchback cars. No trailer required.    (Oct 2014)       

WEDGE -  This is a sturdy, roomy, 2 module utility boat with a unique hull shape. The wedge shape puts the buoyancy where the load is. It has good freeboard, and a 400 pound capacity. Ideal for sole hunters or fishermen with a lot of gear, and it is stand-up stable. Finished weight is only about 80 pounds. Powered by up to a 3 hp motor, or oars and paddles. It can also be converted into a very capable day sailer.   (Oct 2011)

 Just for your information, many of my boat designs can easily be modified to suite your particular application. As an example, the F.I.T. plans depict larger versions to accommodate bigger people, or greater loads. And the MICRO CC plans define a wider hull, for those who don't want to go it alone. 

All the plans are open to your imagination! 

 All plans can be purchased at  http://www.duckworksbbs.com/category-s/127.htm

Just a short note defining why my videos rarely include views of the entire boat, or anybody in them. Well, I almost always go out alone, and as a result, it is impossible to to get the whole scene, as my arms are just not long enough. However, the accompanying still photos should provide more than sufficient hull views to satisfy the need of most of the readers of this website.  And, thank you for your continued support.

- Accessory Plans Listing -

All these plans can be downloaded FREE from the individual listings below.

- MISCELLANEOUS - 

And here is a great article on the basic use of  Materials & Tools by  Jim Michalak.

This should be required reading for all first time boat builders. 

Download the PDF file below (click on title). Wait for the file to load, then select Save or Print.

Also go to  http://www.svensons.com/boat/ for some old, but good, boat designs. 

Or visit  http://www.storerboatplans.com/ , a great Australian boat designer.

A boat builders paradise   http://www.christinedemerchant.com/ 

And, of course, Duckworks Boat Builders Supply.

 It's always better when man's best friend enjoys the small boating experience in one of our designs.

Say Hello to Jake ! 

And remember,

DUCKWORKS  is the best place to look for boat building plans, supplies and articles.

http://www.duckworksbbs.com/ 

 A Boat Builders Best Friend.

FINAL OVERVIEW
It is the intent of this plans website to provide two things for the small portable boat building community.
First is to provide ideas and information of interest that will motivate a prospective builder into action.
Second is to provide plans for boats that are affordable, easy to build, useful and always fun.
There should be sufficient information about each design listed that will enable the
builder to make an educated decision regarding their boat of choice. 
If not, the designer is only an e-mail away, willing to answer all inquires of design, construction and material selection.

Web Site Created September 2009 

LEGAL DESCRIPTION

The boat plans listed here are the sole creation of the designer, Ken Simpson. It is his ongoing goal to design and develop small transportable boats that are easy and affordable to build. Although each design is unique, intended for a specific purpose, all share common assembly techniques. For instance, there are very few, if any, hull forms used in construction of these boats, as the bulkheads and transoms, combined with the mounted side panels, create the basic hull shape. The glue of choice for all construction is TiteBond III, a waterproof wood glue. No epoxy specified, or used. All seams are treated with layers of glass cloth tape impregnated with TiteBond III. This method was developed by the designer, and many boats of different sizes, up to 12 feet in length, have been successfully built using the process, now called the ' Tape & Glue Method of Assembly '.

That being said, the designer takes no responsibility, and cannot be held liable for any construction faults, personal injury, or any other result of the builders actions or materials, on or off the water.  Also, the plans cannot be used for commercial purposes without the designers specific written permission.