We have been so impressed with our custom built Chaisson Dory (extended one (1') foot and sides raised two (2")) inches we decided to build a larger boat. As many on TF are aware we enjoy the build process of a new boat more than using them, so this is not unusual for us. Building and owning a true wood boat was a lifelong dream and something we are doing with the electric open launch. Being able to tweak an existing design or develop a design using a clean sheet of paper is just fun. Having previously owned a similar size "chopped fiberglass" 10' rowing boat I can attest there is no comparison between the two boats with Chaisson Dory exceeding in every aspect. I have used "2@Sea" about 24 times in all types of weather and sea conditions (OK, San Diego weather is not all the bad) and she handles as designed. She tracks very well, is easy to row and most importantly handles rough water very well. I have never taken on water even in 2-3foot chop with 15 knot winds. Taking her offshore in up to eight-foot swells spaced apart is not an issue. When taking on three (3') foot swells from passing boats I just turn her raised bow into them, and she rides up and over them. The boats wide beam and flat center section provides the stability I was looking for. Quality is mazing and she is real head turner. I did mess up with the trailer which designed for a boat up 5,000lbs and is over kill. The boat is stored is washed and stored in the garage after every trip. Reason for selling this work of art is to build a larger boat with two rowing stations for when Mary wants to go with me. We paid around $15K for the boat and trailer plus $4K to have her shipped to San Diego. If someone on the west coast is interested in this type of boat as a dingy on their Trawler or use it as I do for exercise let me know and we can discuss a fair price. I don't expect to recover the shipping costs and would be fine selling her for around $13K. Replacement costs have increased significantly since last August when we started this boat so a little more savings there. Fun stuff!
John T.
John T.
