After doing some more mock ups of the Ta’al and discussing with the wifey I’ve decided to Pivot the plan.
The main reasons are:
Concerns over the side panel shapes
- As someone who has never built a kayak, is totally unqualified to design a boat, and not that experienced with 3D layout or ship building software I was getting more nervous about how the panels would lay up full size.
- Should the max beam have been closer to the waterline? Curving in? The mock ups sure looked a bit funny. Would the panels even fit together?
- Modifications regarding stringers and hatches. The Ta’al plan doesn’t include areas for hatches. Probably the center stringer would’ve had to be cut.
- Bow shape. I really love the look of the Ta’al. I really do a lot! However a concern I’ve always had is how it will handle larger waves. As its possible for us to be out in bigger waves than some recreational SUP paddlers. Looking at the mockups, I wasn’t sure how the changes I made would affect the craft in waves. Would the waves just splash out to the side like on our Hobie? Cut through?
Given the above I’ve decided to Pivot and have gone to the original 2nd choice. I’ve purchased plans for the Sabalo 12 from Jem Watercraft.
This Kayak is supposed to be based on the Blue Fin instead of the original Sabalo. So hoping it has the 4th gen improved hull Shape. The standard plans have a tank well similar to the Sabalo. Matt has posted building with the Blue fin Open cockpit can be done with minor changes. I think the open cockpit should be easier and lighter to buid? Any negatives? Look? Strength?
One modification i would like to do is instead of a separate cockpit/tank well. I’d like to merge them into 1 giant cockpit. Wifey hardly carries anything on her Kayak, and this will give us the flexibility of our Advanced Elements Convertible. She can sit in a normal position when paddling solo, but when our toddler wants to board, she can slide the seat back to trim the kayak.