Boatbuilding Classes

Build Your Own Remote Control Sailing Model

Location: International Yacht Restoration School - Newport, Rhode Island
Dates: Jul 20, 2009 - Jul 25, 2009

Instructor:
Eric Schade

Sign-up with International Yacht Restoration School:
Register online at IYRS

Class Details:

Our friends Eric Schade and Dave Jackson developed this excellent 48-inch long sailing model, which they've named the "Independence."  Large fleets of Independence sailing models have been built from kits over the past few years, including at the WoodenBoat School and at the Pequot Yacht Club, where they are raced with competitive fervor.  Don't miss the YouTube video of these excellent pond yachts here.

A powerful sailing model, the Independence is equipped with straightforward and inexpensive remote control technology.  Kids will be thrilled with the model, but will have a VERY difficult time wresting the controls from their parents.  Since the Independence is a "one design" class, you can build or join fleets of Independence models for racing.

Construction is "stitch-and-glue" from a computer-cut CLC kit.  The kit includes everything except the RC controller:  okoume and sapele parts (you may varnish your entire boat), epoxy, lead bulb for the keel, hardware, spars, rigging, and fabric and patterns for sails.  RC control units will be available for purchase during the class---about $50 as of this writing. 

At the end of your 5-day class, you will launch, sail, and even race your Independence sailing model against your fellow students.