A 12m cruiser/racer catamaran – 2 yrs & 9 mths to build – launched 15th August 1997. Details of the build.

Small boats you can build in your garage.  A good family project and a way to get a taste of boat building. See how they were built.

Plans to build your own boat. Packed with information for the first time builder. Start building your boat now.

Where to Start

Building your own boat isn’t just about crafting something to take out on the water—it’s about fulfilling a dream. For years, I imagined myself sailing into the horizon on a boat I built with my own hands. At 39, I turned that dream into reality, launching Tokyo Express and embarking on a journey that changed my life.

This website is about more than just my story; it’s about helping you start your own. Whether you’re dreaming of distant horizons or quick trips down the river, everything you need to know is here—methods, materials, and motivation.

Tokyo Express: My 40ft Catamaran Journey

In 1997, after 2 years and 9 months of relentless effort, I launched Tokyo Express, a 12-meter cruiser/racer catamaran that I built from scratch. It was the culmination of a dream—a project that tested my skills, perseverance, and creativity at every turn. This catamaran wasn’t just a boat; it was a classroom, a challenge, and ultimately, a triumph.

From the custom steering systems to the mast I assembled from a kit, everything about Tokyo Express was designed with practicality and affordability in mind. I didn’t use exotic materials or advanced tools, just ingenuity and a willingness to learn. Explore the Tokyo Express page to see how I turned this vision into a reality and pick up invaluable tips for your own large-scale project.

Small Boats: A Perfect Starting Point

If a 40-foot catamaran feels a bit ambitious, why not start small? Small boats are fun, practical, and a great way to dip your toes into boat building. Crafted in garages and backyards, they’re ideal for family projects or for those looking to experience the joy of building without committing to a massive undertaking. Visit the Small Boats page to explore builds that are simple, rewarding, and guaranteed to turn heads on the water.

Plans to Build Your Own Boat

Every dream needs a plan and for small boats, I’ve got you covered. My boat-building plans are designed to make the process approachable, even for beginners. Clear instructions, detailed drawings, and pro tips ensure you’ll have everything you need to start building today. Whether it’s a high-speed runabout, a classic sailboat, or something in between, you’ll find plans that suit your vision.

Start building your boat today and experience the satisfaction of creating something extraordinary with your own hands.

You Don’t Need Expensive Kits or Materials

Forget the notion that boat building requires a massive budget or specialized skills. I built Tokyo Express using accessible materials and tools. From the rudders to the plumbing systems, I fabricated most of the parts myself, proving that passion and persistence are far more important than having the fanciest gear.

If you’ve got the determination, you can build a boat that rivals any production model in strength, performance, and beauty. And if you’re starting small, it’s even easier to keep costs low while achieving professional-quality results.

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