I'm in the process of building a building a 10' tender for an as yet unpurchased cruiser. The tender has a Pram bow, lots of flare and will be suitable for towing or hauling on davits. These types of prams are used by Lobstermen on the North shore of Massachusetts, (where I grew up) and carry weight through chop to the moored lobsterboat. They are regionally known as Swampscott prams or Nahant type skiffs. They feature high bows and robust construction, usually pulled up on the landings by the fishermans pickup truck.
Mine is built with 3/8" marine plywood bottom and sides, with 3/4' bow and stern transoms. The rails (gunwhales) are 4 layers of 3/8' about 2 1/2' wide.
Seams are taped with 4" f/g tape set in epoxy and the outside of the hull is getting a layer of 10 oz cloth set in epoxy. I'm in the process of f/glassing the hull now. The only reason to build your own skiff is to get it the way you want it - there are certainly no cost savings involved. I will have lifting points low inside the hull for davit use and strengthened towing points on the bow. Three water tight compartments will by built in.
Operational requirements are general support duties for the mother ship: shore runs, dog ferry, be able to carry 2 bicycles, groceries, fuel etc. MUST be able to tough it out at dinghy docks, rocky beaches and survive general abuse by ships crew.
Ply construction means easily repaired. Pram style bow means about the same interior room as a 12' conventional dinghy. I hate inflatables (personal opinion ONLY) and am only building this because I have the time. When the mother ship presents itself, it will be ready to go! If anybody cares, I will post building sequence pics when completed.