PORTABLE BOATS

2/15/2010   TOTER-2 PROJECT

Well, after months of design and 6 weeks of construction, the TOTER-2 was finally launched last week. This updated version of the original TOTER has some added desirable attributes. It now can seat 2 people in tandem. It can use a non-modified trolling motor for power. It has built-in buoyancy. It has some enclosed space. And, it can be built as a daysailer. All this in the same size package, 3' x 3' x 1.5' when nested. This means it can fit in the trunk of many Cars, and in all Trucks, SUV's and RV's. Even on the deck of a power boat, to be used as a tender. And remember, no trailer required.

The above picture shows the extended center module version.  The layout below is of the standard length boat. 

A Short Video of the Removable Nylon Canopy.

 Short video showing the Electric Remote Steering on TOTER-2

Overall, the building process was very straight forward. I have settled in on a construction type that is easy to build, even for first timers. Little things, like strengthening the attachment points and adding chine protection, along with beefy skids, all contribute to a more rugged and durable little boat. Sealing the plywood has been an ongoing concern of mine. Good plywood is hard to find these days. So, on this boat, all plywood surfaces were treated with Thompsons clear wood preservative after assembly, but prior to applying a finish. The end result is a plywood boat that can be exposed to the elements for a longer period of time without absorbing moisture. Only time will tell just how effective this will be, but simple tests performed on small sheets of 1/4" ply give me much hope. I use Marine Spar Varnish as a finish for two reasons. It does a good job of sealing the soft wood surfaces of non-marine ply, and it looks great. It shows off the craftsmanship, or lack thereof, of the builder. So, sanding between each coat of varnish is imperative.

Above photo of typical assembly process, adding the rubrails.  Below photo of simple bolt-together hull module assembly.

All hull seams and joints will be 'Taped & Glued' for strength and sealing of the interior and exterior interfaces.

 It will be quite a few weeks before I complete the sailing version of TOTER-2, as the weather out here this time of year is not conducive to sailing. This will be a separate plan set, defining the assembly of the sail, rudder, mast, boom and rigging, and possibly sponsons for additional stability. The mast and boom will fold for storage in the 4' center hull module. You may notice that the mast step is in place, as are the stay supports and rudder mount.

Finally on the water, checking the speed by GPS (4.2 mph), and enjoying the ride. 

Addition of removable sponsons to increase lateral buoyancy.  Specifically designed for Toter Sail, but also a benefit to the motor version.

The sponsons are an easy on, easy off addition. Also, easy to store and transport, only a square foot by 45 inches long.

The sponsons add about 24 inches to the beam of the boat.

The sponsons add so much lateral resistance, that there is no fear standing in the boat.  Ideal for the fishermen.

A Short Video of Sponsons in Action.

Download the Sponson Plans by clicking the link below. Allow the file to load, and then select Print or Save File.

Each new boat I design and build becomes my favorite, and this is no exception. I see TOTER-2 as a competent multi-purpose little craft, capable of being a fishing boat, a daysailer, a tender or just a simple rowboat for casual trips around a local pond, tributary or lake. At 75 pounds max, it can be lifted by most anyone, and the heaviest section only weighs 30 pounds. It's primary feature is still it's portability. It can fit in almost any vehicle, and it can be stored just about anywhere there is an extra 5 square feet of space!  The addition of sponsons converts the boat to a stable platform for fishing, or just added safety buoyancy when two are aboard.