Boatzilla!
(Carl's Build of the Summer Breeze)

Boatzilla's Maiden Voyage (below)

Go To Building Log

Our Maiden Voyage was on Saturday, November the 5th, 2005. We launched Boatzilla off Scorpian Bay, in Lake Pleasant, North of Peoria, Arizona. As the photos prove, we had a stiff 0 to 3 mph breeze on Saturday. Below are photos and comments.

It took us way longer to get the boat on the Exporer than expected. Note to self: when building boat, dry test cartopping to see how wide vehicle is in relationship to boat. It's not in this photo, but I had to duct tape a mop handle to the back of the roof rack to car top the boat.

Seting up the rig.

Setting up the rig 10 seconds later. Notice salty pirate ready to harpoon a whale expression.

Where did I put the sprit boom??

These are the only photos of the maiden voyage day as we left the camera in the car by accident. It only took us 15 minutes to set up everything and adjust the rigging. The sail shape is awesome. If you look at the background of the above picture you can make out wind ripples in the water. it was very gentle ... 3 mph (?) with occasional gusts to 5 mph.

The next morning, Sunday November the 6th, 2005 we remembered to bring the camera on the boat.

Who needs wind?

Are we drifting?

I feel calm.

Baby, wake up, you're taking pictures in your sleep again.

I can say this about the Summer Breeze sailboat based on 4 hours of sailing:

Even in the slightest breeze, she moves.

No Wind

No Wind

The rigging, leeboard and rudder are very well balanced. Moving at 1/32 mph i could tack her, which is remarkable.

The 1/4" plywood bottom bulges up substantially, don't be alarmed.

When set properly, the balanced lug sail is really nice.

Special Thanks to David at Simplicity Boats! Great Free Plans and info!

Go To Arizona Explorers