541 replies to this topic

[windseekeryachts]

We have started production on Jim Donovan designed GP26 for serial production. We are based in Tuzla-Istanbul, Turkey. We have plans to ship the boats to USA semi completed, and also complete boat as well. For any enquiries, please contact me or Jim Donovan.

[doghouse]

website?

[windseekeryachts]

website?

Well, our site does not have the 26 yet but it is www.windseekeryachts.com I will post some pictures of the 26 plug soon...

[Kent H]

I love the GP26 rule. Anybody can read and understand the requirements. This is definitely a boat to look at for clubs that want to start a new one design fleet.

[StayinStrewn]

Cool...how much for semi and completed boats to east coast USA?

[Ryley]

Is this the same GP26 design as the one Kevin Farrar is building? any idea what it's going to cost?

Anyone on the east coast who wants to build a GP26 should have a long, deep talk with Kevin.

[windseekeryachts]

Plug being buid:


For pricing info I am waiting for some quotes for freight and also some equipments. I will post this info when I have a firm price.

Attached Files

•  IMG_0136 (Large).jpg   98.78K   202 downloads
•  IMG_0135 (Large).jpg   103.27K   183 downloads

[Jim Donovan]

Is this the same GP26 design as the one Kevin Farrar is building? any idea what it's going to cost?

Anyone on the east coast who wants to build a GP26 should have a long, deep talk with Kevin.

Same design but with production tooling for hull and some updates to the structures.

It's great to see the interest in this class gaining momentum.

[StayinStrewn]

Are there any drawings available?

[Jim Donovan]

Are there any drawings available?

Attached Files

•  GP 26 Promotional Sail & Deck .pdf   64.2K   640 downloads

[Ryley]

So now I guess the question becomes who hits the water first

[doghouse]

I'm hoping to leap frog them both with the 30.

[windseekeryachts]

Plug carpentry is almost finished. Next the sheerline connection, and then the paint job.

Attached Files

•  photo1rsz.JPG   90.47K   183 downloads
•  photo2rsz.JPG   93.78K   225 downloads
•  photo3rsz.JPG   86.65K   191 downloads

[StayinStrewn]

cool, looks good!

I take it the pricing is all being worked out still, no?

[fdsailor]

Great to see another one (or poss more...!) of these making the light of day. Carry On.

[fdsailor]

Any updates guys?

[Kevin Farrar]

I believe that Serhad and company are busy fairing the plug.
Kevin

[windseekeryachts]

We have been busy with some other projects so 26 has gone a little slow these past few days. Now the sanding and fairing on wood plug is finished. We will start with mold taking next week.
In the mean time I had a chance to work out the numbers.

The Introductory Price:
It looks we will be offering the finished boat (without sails, electronics, engine and bracket, cushions, etc all the usual extras) with but with carbon mast, bow sprit, rudder, keel, harken or similar gear, lifelines for about 52,000 USD x works Tuzla, Istanbul Turkey

For interested parties I can share information on freight. There is possibility of sending two boats in a container which will reduce costs.

I will post new images as they become available.

[fdsailor]

That seems very competitive price wise with the new Farr 25...keep posting pics as you progress!

[windseekeryachts]

Plug covered with e glass and epoxy.
epoxy fairing compound added.
The pictures are before fairing.

Attached Files

•  PA050247 (Large).JPG   94.41K   208 downloads
•  PA050253 (Large).JPG   90.42K   203 downloads

[Jim Donovan]

We have been busy with some other projects so 26 has gone a little slow these past few days. Now the sanding and fairing on wood plug is finished. We will start with mold taking next week.
In the mean time I had a chance to work out the numbers.

The Introductory Price:
It looks we will be offering the finished boat (without sails, electronics, engine and bracket, cushions, etc all the usual extras) with but with carbon mast, bow sprit, rudder, keel, harken or similar gear, lifelines for about 52,000 USD x works Tuzla, Istanbul Turkey

For interested parties I can share information on freight. There is possibility of sending two boats in a container which will reduce costs.

I will post new images as they become available.

And this is for a very high spec boat; epoxy with uni or biaxail laminates, Corecell M-foam, carbon rudder, etc.

[windseekeryachts]

That seems very competitive price wise with the new Farr 25...keep posting pics as you progress!

Yes it is a very competive price. And as per Jim's comment this is a high spec boat. I will post the specs soon.
Meanwhile the plug is almost ready for paint. We have turned over the plug to check, and fair the hull and deck joint.
It looks like a nice boat?

Attached Files

•  PA110212 (Large).JPG   96.98K   87 downloads

[windseekeryachts]

other shots...

Attached Files

•  PA110214 (Large).JPG   113.2K   114 downloads
•  PA110215 (Large).JPG   115.75K   117 downloads

[windseekeryachts]

primer on the plug. Fairing continues before the top coat.
Basic specs of the boat on PDF.

Attached Files

•  PA180222 (Large).JPG   159.64K   72 downloads
•  GP26_web.pdf   703.68K   234 downloads

[fdsailor]

Looking good. What's your planned launch date?

[windseekeryachts]

Looking good. What's your planned launch date?

We expect the boat to be sailing by April.
In the mean time Plug is almost ready. New pictures attached.

Attached Files

•  PA220223 (Medium).JPG   113.99K   211 downloads
•  PA220224 (Medium).JPG   118.47K   180 downloads
•  PA220226 (Medium).JPG   101.73K   202 downloads

[Jim Donovan]

Got this shot this morning - looks great!

Attached Files

•  Windseeker GP26 Plug.JPG   239.76K   150 downloads

[Heriberto]

Looks stunning Jim.

Do you know how many they are planning for this first build? Just prepaid hulls or will any be built on spec?

[windseekeryachts]

Looks stunning Jim.

Do you know how many they are planning for this first build? Just prepaid hulls or will any be built on spec?

Hi Herberito,
Jim, being busy with other projects, I think has not looked at the forum for a while.

I will take the liberty of answering you.
We are planning to build the first boat for ourselves. And the second one on spec. #3 and up prepaid.

The web site for the boat is
www.wraceboats.com

The site is still under construction as there are some parts not working yet. But we will have detailed pricing and sales conditions on web as well.
If any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me via the forum or pm.


The hull mold is ready.

Pictures:

Attached Files

•  PB060273 (Custom).JPG   50.44K   104 downloads
•  PB060275 (Custom).JPG   81.88K   108 downloads

[windseekeryachts]

we started working on deck plug which sits on the hull plug.
new pictures attached

Attached Files

•  PC020026 (Custom).JPG   139.35K   149 downloads
•  PC020033 (Custom).JPG   115.02K   148 downloads

[erdogru]

we started working on deck plug which sits on the hull plug.
new pictures attached

Any forecast regarding the IRC rating?

[windseekeryachts]

we started working on deck plug which sits on the hull plug.
new pictures attached

Any forecast regarding the IRC rating?

Well, we all know that this is not an IRC boat.
This info is from the gp in aus threat there is a boat in US measured and it's rating:

WRAITH GP 26 1.035
http://www.phrfne.or...ndicapping/asdg
if you have further questions, feel free to give us a ring...

[Heriberto]

we started working on deck plug which sits on the hull plug.
new pictures attached

Any forecast regarding the IRC rating?

Well, we all know that this is not an IRC boat.
This info is from the gp in aus threat there is a boat in US measured and it's rating:

WRAITH GP 26 1.035
http://www.phrfne.or...ndicapping/asdg
if you have further questions, feel free to give us a ring...

That phrf rating is 71, which at least in our area is approximately the same as for a J35 or Schock 35. With IRC, who knows.....

[Jim Donovan]

we started working on deck plug which sits on the hull plug.
new pictures attached

Any forecast regarding the IRC rating?

Well, we all know that this is not an IRC boat.
This info is from the gp in aus threat there is a boat in US measured and it's rating:

WRAITH GP 26 1.035
http://www.phrfne.or...ndicapping/asdg
if you have further questions, feel free to give us a ring...

RORC confimred they have one IRC rating for a "GP26" LA CAMORRA, ARG5222.
It is not on the current IRC rating list, but then there are no ARG boats on the IRC list.

I checked with Mike Urwin, and he did not know if the boat was in GP26 class trim when it was measured for IRC, so not very useful as a comparison.

[Jim Donovan]

we started working on deck plug which sits on the hull plug.
new pictures attached

Any forecast regarding the IRC rating?

Well, we all know that this is not an IRC boat.
This info is from the gp in aus threat there is a boat in US measured and it's rating:

WRAITH GP 26 1.035
http://www.phrfne.or...ndicapping/asdg
if you have further questions, feel free to give us a ring...

RORC confimred they have one IRC rating for a "GP26" LA CAMORRA, ARG5222.
It is not on the current IRC rating list, but then there are no ARG boats on the IRC list.

I checked with Mike Urwin, and he did not know if the boat was in GP26 class trim when it was measured for IRC, so not very useful as a comparison.

Found LaCamorra on a different RORC rating list; TCC 1.048

[Heriberto]

Whoops.

They are actually calculating a PHRF number based on the IRC number. The IRC number is 1.035. That "converts" to a phrf number of 71. Typically, a J35 (as a ubiquitous reference boat) would rate from 69-72, it's IRC rating of 1.01 to 1.024, that converts to 78-87 PHRF. Another comparison is a Melges 32 actually rates about 30 sec/mile phrf, IRC ratings are 1.176 to 1.158 which converts to 4 to -4 sec/mile.

As you can see, IRC doesn't like light/fast or sportboats.

[erdogru]

Although it has not been designed to perform well under IRC rule (like most OD or specific class boats), an IRC handicap of 1.030-1.040 puts it just in the middle of IRC2 fleet (in Turkey), making it a real competitor of A-35's. Thinking of that Farr 25 with its relatively high IRC handicap can not compete in IRC1 fleet and again relatively low price of this boat, I have to tell i'm excited to see it on the water!

[Ryley]

we started working on deck plug which sits on the hull plug.
new pictures attached

Any forecast regarding the IRC rating?

Well, we all know that this is not an IRC boat.
This info is from the gp in aus threat there is a boat in US measured and it's rating:

WRAITH GP 26 1.035
http://www.phrfne.or...ndicapping/asdg
if you have further questions, feel free to give us a ring...

That's from 2008, and no boat called Wraith (at least not a GP 26) shows up on either the ussailing list or the ORC list for 2010. It's not a PHRF NE boat, or it would be on the 2008 phrf list and it's not on any from 2004 - 2010. The only Wraith in the US that shows up close to a GP26 is an Olson 30 and has no IRC rating. Since the PHRFNE list doesn't have a sail number, and USSAILING and ORC refuse to publish boat types, and even some of those most involved in the GP26s don't know of a boat called Wraith, this is extremely hard to verify. there are only currently two boats listed on the USSailing site with a TCF of 1.035, and that's a Beneteau 456 and an Express 37. the ORC site doesn't even list the GP26 as a "Boat Type" for which they have data.

Brooks Dees GP26 rates 75 on the left coast, so 71 is in the ballpark, though potentially a bit low?

I take it back, there is a Wraith (GER 5741) listed on the current IRC list - it's a Schock 40 and rates 1.269.

However, I think this makes the existence of a measured, unknown GP 26 extremely unlikely, or suspect to say the least.

[windseekeryachts]

we started working on deck plug which sits on the hull plug.
new pictures attached

Any forecast regarding the IRC rating?

Well, we all know that this is not an IRC boat.
This info is from the gp in aus threat there is a boat in US measured and it's rating:

WRAITH GP 26 1.035
http://www.phrfne.or...ndicapping/asdg
if you have further questions, feel free to give us a ring...

That's from 2008, and no boat called Wraith (at least not a GP 26) shows up on either the ussailing list or the ORC list for 2010. It's not a PHRF NE boat, or it would be on the 2008 phrf list and it's not on any from 2004 - 2010. The only Wraith in the US that shows up close to a GP26 is an Olson 30 and has no IRC rating. Since the PHRFNE list doesn't have a sail number, and USSAILING and ORC refuse to publish boat types, and even some of those most involved in the GP26s don't know of a boat called Wraith, this is extremely hard to verify. there are only currently two boats listed on the USSailing site with a TCF of 1.035, and that's a Beneteau 456 and an Express 37. the ORC site doesn't even list the GP26 as a "Boat Type" for which they have data.

Brooks Dees GP26 rates 75 on the left coast, so 71 is in the ballpark, though potentially a bit low?

I take it back, there is a Wraith (GER 5741) listed on the current IRC list - it's a Schock 40 and rates 1.269.

However, I think this makes the existence of a measured, unknown GP 26 extremely unlikely, or suspect to say the least.

We can wait another few months to get the boat measured but, I think we will get a trial certificate to satisfy everyone's (and our's) curiosity soon.
The boat is taking shape in the mean time (as a plug). Cabin top in place, food rests mounted... We have a huge cockpit, which I suspect will shrink a little after all the equipment.
I have to say overall it is looking very good.

[Heriberto]

Brooks Dees GP26 .... on the left coast....

Not to hijack, but any pictures of this boat?

[quasi-expert]

Brooks Dees GP26 .... on the left coast....

Not to hijack, but any pictures of this boat?

video:

[Prova]

we started working on deck plug which sits on the hull plug.
new pictures attached

Any forecast regarding the IRC rating?

Well, we all know that this is not an IRC boat.
This info is from the gp in aus threat there is a boat in US measured and it's rating:

WRAITH GP 26 1.035
http://www.phrfne.or...ndicapping/asdg
if you have further questions, feel free to give us a ring...

That's from 2008, and no boat called Wraith (at least not a GP 26) shows up on either the ussailing list or the ORC list for 2010. It's not a PHRF NE boat, or it would be on the 2008 phrf list and it's not on any from 2004 - 2010. The only Wraith in the US that shows up close to a GP26 is an Olson 30 and has no IRC rating. Since the PHRFNE list doesn't have a sail number, and USSAILING and ORC refuse to publish boat types, and even some of those most involved in the GP26s don't know of a boat called Wraith, this is extremely hard to verify. there are only currently two boats listed on the USSailing site with a TCF of 1.035, and that's a Beneteau 456 and an Express 37. the ORC site doesn't even list the GP26 as a "Boat Type" for which they have data.

Brooks Dees GP26 rates 75 on the left coast, so 71 is in the ballpark, though potentially a bit low?

I take it back, there is a Wraith (GER 5741) listed on the current IRC list - it's a Schock 40 and rates 1.269.

However, I think this makes the existence of a measured, unknown GP 26 extremely unlikely, or suspect to say the least.

Ryley: Wraith was to be the name of my little boat. As both my partner and I like jazz and the boat's kinda small, irreverernt and fun we changed the name to Salt Peanuts. It's the name of a little tune written by Dizzy Gillespie. I just never got back to updating the IRC cert as there is no IRC racing in that size range out here (San Francisco). I also just hate paperwork and I'm an Olympic caliber procrastenator. I also can't spell. Pic of the litttle boat during the dramatic prestart manouvers on the Berkeley Circle last Sunday.

Attached Files

•  Smilebox_524615762.jpg   57.29K   158 downloads

[Heriberto]

Brooks Dees GP26 .... on the left coast....

Not to hijack, but any pictures of this boat?

Looks much narrower in the stern than the Donovan, with more rocker. The differences are interesting. Just in general, these boats look like a great box concept and look really fun to sail! Thanks for the videos.

[erdogru]

we started working on deck plug which sits on the hull plug.
new pictures attached

Any forecast regarding the IRC rating?

Well, we all know that this is not an IRC boat.
This info is from the gp in aus threat there is a boat in US measured and it's rating:

WRAITH GP 26 1.035
http://www.phrfne.or...ndicapping/asdg
if you have further questions, feel free to give us a ring...

RORC confimred they have one IRC rating for a "GP26" LA CAMORRA, ARG5222.
It is not on the current IRC rating list, but then there are no ARG boats on the IRC list.

I checked with Mike Urwin, and he did not know if the boat was in GP26 class trim when it was measured for IRC, so not very useful as a comparison.

Found LaCamorra on a different RORC rating list; TCC 1.048

Well, there is a custom made GP26 in Turkey named "3T". Photo attached. Searched for the IRC rating and found it. IRC TCC: 0.952 (certificate no: 36635)
Different trim level?

Attached Files

•  3T GP26.jpg   26.08K   211 downloads

[erdogru]

Other photos of "3T":  3T GP26 -2.jpg   26.44K   338 downloads  3T GP26 -3.jpg   14K   382 downloads

[Prova]

Other photos of "3T":  3T GP26 -2.jpg   26.44K   338 downloads  3T GP26 -3.jpg   14K   382 downloads

Dude!! We need your info for the GP26 site! www.grandprix26.com. Send me some photos and stuff. Send them to Brooks Dees, class president. email: bdyd@comcast.net

[windseekeryachts]

Other photos of "3T":  3T GP26 -2.jpg   26.44K   338 downloads  3T GP26 -3.jpg   14K   382 downloads

3T is a nice cute little boat. But it is not a GP26 class boat. I know this because I helped him getting his rig 2 years ago. It will be unrealistic to expect a similar IRC rating.
this boat has an inboard, I do not know its weight but I amsure it is over the class limits.

So the IRC rating dilemna finally solved. We have the Salt and Peanuts rating in USA, and other Argentinian Boat's rating. We can expect a similar rating for our boat. As for local racing, the boat will be in IRC2 in local fleet. Going against A35, Beneteau 40.7, x35, Farr 25 and likes.

We are also planning to launch sportboat racing with our friends at ODYACHTING (Farr25 producers). So any locals interested in this kind of action, give us a ring or drop an email.

[Prova]

Other photos of "3T":  3T GP26 -2.jpg   26.44K   338 downloads  3T GP26 -3.jpg   14K   382 downloads

3T is a nice cute little boat. But it is not a GP26 class boat. I know this because I helped him getting his rig 2 years ago. It will be unrealistic to expect a similar IRC rating.
this boat has an inboard, I do not know its weight but I amsure it is over the class limits.

So the IRC rating dilemna finally solved. We have the Salt and Peanuts rating in USA, and other Argentinian Boat's rating. We can expect a similar rating for our boat. As for local racing, the boat will be in IRC2 in local fleet. Going against A35, Beneteau 40.7, x35, Farr 25 and likes.

We are also planning to launch sportboat racing with our friends at ODYACHTING (Farr25 producers). So any locals interested in this kind of action, give us a ring or drop an email.

Oh yeah I didn't notice the inboard. So close. Well for handicap racing it'll be good to have similar boats in the area.

[Jim Donovan]

I got a very nice X-mas present from Turkey this morning - photos of the deck plug complete for the GP26.
This is the first look at what the boat will look like put together (Kevin's boat is still missing some parts)..
I'm extremely pleased with the product and excited to get aboard for some sailing next summer!

You are looking at a male plug built on the hull plug - the surface of this plug is made with plywood with a purplish wood-like Formica surface.
The color is a bit jarring, but it will be very slick when it comes time to release the deck from the plug.
They will build the first deck on this plug and after faring and putting down all the hardware plants, take a mold from that deck.
It's also a little difficult to see, but the surface off the deck plug is also set down from the sheer by the deck thickenss - quite nice boat-building going on here.
This a very good plan that will insure exact fit of the deck and hull parts from the molds.

In the transom photo the cockpit foot braces shown are the lower (inside) surface, so these expand by the thickness of the deck (about 17mm).
You need a healthy size foot brace so you can use your legs to pull on the sheets.
With a small foot brace your foot will slip off the top and you end up on your butt in the bottom of the cockpit!

Attached Files

•  WRace GP 26 Deck Cnst2.jpg   121.71K   100 downloads
•  WRace GP 26 Deck Cnst 3.jpg   182.1K   115 downloads
•  WRace GP 26 Deck Cnst1.jpg   129.29K   132 downloads
•  WRace GP 26 Deck Cnst 4.jpg   217.98K   126 downloads

[Jim Donovan]

Here's the sailplan and deck layout for the full race version

Attached Files

•  GP 26 Promotional Plan 22 Dec10.pdf   135.69K   214 downloads

[dogwatch]

Other photos of "3T":  3T GP26 -2.jpg   26.44K   338 downloads  3T GP26 -3.jpg   14K   382 downloads

Sorry but that second photo looks horrible. Arse up, bow down like some nightmare of an IOR boat.

[Jim Donovan]

Other photos of "3T":  3T GP26 -2.jpg   26.44K   338 downloads  3T GP26 -3.jpg   14K   382 downloads

Sorry but that second photo looks horrible. Arse up, bow down like some nightmare of an IOR boat.

In all fairness, the crew looks somewhat out of position . . .

[Jim Donovan]

Other photos of "3T":  3T GP26 -2.jpg   26.44K   338 downloads  3T GP26 -3.jpg   14K   382 downloads

Sorry but that second photo looks horrible. Arse up, bow down like some nightmare of an IOR boat.

In all fairness, the crew looks somewhat out of position . . .

Excuse my quick sketch w/Photoshop; here is the anticipated crew stack for sailing upwind on my GP26 design.
In Medium air, the helmsman can have a mainsheet trimmer sitting legs in.
In heavier breeze it will be faster to have all legs out, so the driver will need to trim main. In the heavy air the mainsheet usually is parked at "max in", and adjustments can be made with the traveler and fine-tune mainsheet - both controls set up for the helmsman to easily reach.

Attached Files

•  GP 26 Medium Upwind.jpg   75.85K   118 downloads
•  GP 26 Heavy Upwind.jpg   77.58K   109 downloads

[Ryley]

Other photos of "3T":  3T GP26 -2.jpg   26.44K   338 downloads  3T GP26 -3.jpg   14K   382 downloads

Sorry but that second photo looks horrible. Arse up, bow down like some nightmare of an IOR boat.

In all fairness, the crew looks somewhat out of position . . .

Excuse my quick sketch w/Photoshop; here is the anticipated crew stack for sailing upwind on my GP26 design.
In Medium air, the helmsman can have a mainsheet trimmer sitting legs in.
In heavier breeze it will be faster to have all legs out, so the driver will need to trim main. In the heavy air the mainsheet usually is parked at "max in", and adjustments can be made with the traveler and fine-tune mainsheet - both controls set up for the helmsman to easily reach.

Hmm.. interesting to see your heavy air position with one person behind the helm. I may have to try that myself.

[windseekeryachts]

We have started the deck production on male mold/plug.
Foam is cut, and eased to place its place.
Next: inner skin lamination

Attached Files

•  IMG_0364.JPG   85.57K   166 downloads

[Jim Donovan]

We have started the deck production on male mold/plug.
Foam is cut, and eased to place its place.
Next: inner skin lamination

It's fantastic to see the boat taking shape- looks great!

[Heriberto]

That is so freaking cool!

[Steam Flyer]

We have started the deck production on male mold/plug.
Foam is cut, and eased to place its place.
Next: inner skin lamination

It's fantastic to see the boat taking shape- looks great!

Judging by the looks so far, it will be a gorgeous boat. Hard to believe it won't be fast too.

How much of the deck structure will come out of the mold, and how much will have to be bonded into place after popping the deck off?

FB- Doug

[windseekeryachts]

We have started the deck production on male mold/plug.
Foam is cut, and eased to place its place.
Next: inner skin lamination

It's fantastic to see the boat taking shape- looks great!

Judging by the looks so far, it will be a gorgeous boat. Hard to believe it won't be fast too.

How much of the deck structure will come out of the mold, and how much will have to be bonded into place after popping the deck off?

FB- Doug

for the production boats almost all of the deck structure will come out of the mold.
We will have a race cockpit for our boat that, and with an option price this cockpit will be tailored for other boats as well

[windseekeryachts]

inner skin laminated, vacuumed afterwards core is laminated and vacuumed.
Core is cleaning now for outer skin lamination due to start tomorrow.

this is how it looks as of today.

Attached Files

•  IMG_20110125_125723 (Custom).jpg   45.23K   111 downloads

[windseekeryachts]

First Deck out of the mold. #2 in in progress now.
soon we will start hull #1. First boat expected launch in April.

Now we have a clear understanding of materials, equipment and labor involved. I can post the kit boat price.
The Kit boat: Hull and Deck joined together, Keel, Rudder, Jeffa Rudder Bearing installed.
32,000 USD x works Factory.

[Ryley]

First Deck out of the mold. #2 in in progress now.
soon we will start hull #1. First boat expected launch in April.

Now we have a clear understanding of materials, equipment and labor involved. I can post the kit boat price.
The Kit boat: Hull and Deck joined together, Keel, Rudder, Jeffa Rudder Bearing installed.
32,000 USD x works Factory.

have you decided how you're going to handle the spars yet? build them yourself or outsource them to someone else, and what will that add to the 'kit' price?

[windseekeryachts]

First Deck out of the mold. #2 in in progress now.
soon we will start hull #1. First boat expected launch in April.

Now we have a clear understanding of materials, equipment and labor involved. I can post the kit boat price.
The Kit boat: Hull and Deck joined together, Keel, Rudder, Jeffa Rudder Bearing installed.
32,000 USD x works Factory.

have you decided how you're going to handle the spars yet? build them yourself or outsource them to someone else, and what will that add to the 'kit' price?

Mast, boom, bowsprit made by Pauger Carbon.
This does not add to kit price.
price above is without mast, boom, bowsprit.

[Heriberto]

First Deck out of the mold. #2 in in progress now.
soon we will start hull #1. First boat expected launch in April.

Now we have a clear understanding of materials, equipment and labor involved. I can post the kit boat price.
The Kit boat: Hull and Deck joined together, Keel, Rudder, Jeffa Rudder Bearing installed.
32,000 USD x works Factory.

have you decided how you're going to handle the spars yet? build them yourself or outsource them to someone else, and what will that add to the 'kit' price?

Mast, boom, bowsprit made by Pauger Carbon.
This does not add to kit price.
price above is without mast, boom, bowsprit.

Maybe someone from Pauger could be persuaded to describe them here?

[Ginas22]

First Deck out of the mold. #2 in in progress now.
soon we will start hull #1. First boat expected launch in April.

Now we have a clear understanding of materials, equipment and labor involved. I can post the kit boat price.
The Kit boat: Hull and Deck joined together, Keel, Rudder, Jeffa Rudder Bearing installed.
32,000 USD x works Factory.

have you decided how you're going to handle the spars yet? build them yourself or outsource them to someone else, and what will that add to the 'kit' price?

Mast, boom, bowsprit made by Pauger Carbon.
This does not add to kit price.
price above is without mast, boom, bowsprit.

Hi,
Example :Roussel Coutts RC-44 paugercarbon.com
Gina

[windseekeryachts]

The project is progressing smoothly.
We now have 2 decks, we will start with the hull next week. The hull core will be thermoformed. The oven is ready...
Painted deck photo attached

Attached Files

•  PAintedunderside.jpg   50.29K   76 downloads

[Heriberto]

Other photos of "3T":  3T GP26 -2.jpg   26.44K   338 downloads  3T GP26 -3.jpg   14K   382 downloads

Sorry but that second photo looks horrible. Arse up, bow down like some nightmare of an IOR boat.

In all fairness, the crew looks somewhat out of position . . .

Excuse my quick sketch w/Photoshop; here is the anticipated crew stack for sailing upwind on my GP26 design.
In Medium air, the helmsman can have a mainsheet trimmer sitting legs in.
In heavier breeze it will be faster to have all legs out, so the driver will need to trim main. In the heavy air the mainsheet usually is parked at "max in", and adjustments can be made with the traveler and fine-tune mainsheet - both controls set up for the helmsman to easily reach.

I suppose it's wrong of me, but I often used to drive with my legs out and hiking. Then we were often massively short-handed.... You get used to it though!

[Heriberto]

First Deck out of the mold. #2 in in progress now.
soon we will start hull #1. First boat expected launch in April.

Now we have a clear understanding of materials, equipment and labor involved. I can post the kit boat price.
The Kit boat: Hull and Deck joined together, Keel, Rudder, Jeffa Rudder Bearing installed.
32,000 USD x works Factory.

have you decided how you're going to handle the spars yet? build them yourself or outsource them to someone else, and what will that add to the 'kit' price?

Mast, boom, bowsprit made by Pauger Carbon.
This does not add to kit price.
price above is without mast, boom, bowsprit.

Estimated price for mast, boom and bowsprit? Tough to sail without them!

[windseekeryachts]

First Deck out of the mold. #2 in in progress now.
soon we will start hull #1. First boat expected launch in April.

Now we have a clear understanding of materials, equipment and labor involved. I can post the kit boat price.
The Kit boat: Hull and Deck joined together, Keel, Rudder, Jeffa Rudder Bearing installed.
32,000 USD x works Factory.

have you decided how you're going to handle the spars yet? build them yourself or outsource them to someone else, and what will that add to the 'kit' price?

Mast, boom, bowsprit made by Pauger Carbon.
This does not add to kit price.
price above is without mast, boom, bowsprit.

Estimated price for mast, boom and bowsprit? Tough to sail without them!

Ok Herberito. Now I understand what you and Ryley are asking...
The introductory price for the completed boat does not change from the one mentioned some while ago.
The introductory price is set at €40,000.
I am keeping the exchange rate fixed at 1.30 for non € countries (US, NZ, AUS etc) to compensate higher freight costs. So 52,000 USD exw.
If interested please pm me so I can send a detailed price sheet as well as sail quotes.

[Heriberto]

Thanks! It looks like it is coming along very well and is certainly attractive at that price.

A lot of boat for the money.

[windseekeryachts]

Hull production started.
female mold pictured ...

Attached Files

•  IMG_20110221_151253 (Custom).jpg   55.86K   116 downloads
•  IMG_20110221_151302 (Custom).jpg   58.13K   105 downloads

[windseekeryachts]

Hull lamination completed.
Last weeks picture shows foam installed, just before innerskin lamination.
I have ordered the first mast to Pauger Carbon after seeing the revisions to class rule. It is expected btw mid and end June because they are making a new mold.
Subsequent masts will be delivered in 6 weeks. (just about the same time as the boats)

Attached Files

•  rsz_1058716486 (1).jpg   152.91K   90 downloads

[windseekeryachts]

we site updated with more photos and more info and a new look.
take a look... www.wraceboats.com

[windseekeryachts]

Since the expected delivery of the mast is end of june. We figured we can have the boat ready beginning of June.
And shifted our attention to other projects at the yard. So the 26 is going relatively slow these days.
We have the bulkheads ready to be fixed into the boat. Keel reinforcement, and bunks still needs to be done...

In the mean time for those of you following this thread from Turkey, we have set up a yahoo group (it is Turkish) to promote sport sailing in Turkey.
To subscribe send an e mail to:

SportboatsTurkey-subscribe@yahoogroups.co.uk

[windseekeryachts]

Bulkheads under vacuum and then fitted into the boat.
we are now working on the keel frame support structure. next week hopefully the bunks will be in the boat.
All the equipment minus the rig is in the shop.

Trying to catch up with Kevin...

Attached Files

•  IMG_20110323_172721 (Custom).jpg   91.55K   77 downloads
•  rsz_img_20110512_100640.jpg   93.06K   78 downloads

[Ryley]

looking good.

[windseekeryachts]

Progress(ing)

the keel frame is laminated. With multiple and multiple layers of carbon...
here is a picture.

also work on bunks has started.

we will have the boat ready in about a months time. Of the 120+ viewers of this thread, still no one interested in stealing hull no:2 at 52,000 usd or 40,000 € (boat without sails and electronics)?

Attached Files

•  rsz_003.jpg   230.17K   141 downloads

[jc172528]

Just stumbled on this.
Shit Hot love ya work!!!

[windseekeryachts]

bowsprit and housing tube. The pictures are from Pauger Carbon.
Mast, boom, Sprit expected at the yard at the end of June.

Attached Files

•  P6030300_resize.JPG   96.59K   48 downloads
•  P6030303_resize.JPG   113.04K   50 downloads

[Ryley]

Can I ask a loaded question? Was it always your intention to do the keel sump in carbon? Or did you decide to do that after the rule clarification, or... was there another motivation? I like it - looks sexy even if it's gonna get painted and no one will know. I'd be tempted to paint everything else white and leave that clearcoated, but.. I'm perverse like that.

[windseekeryachts]

Hi Ryley,
Maybe Jim can answer your question on technical aspect.
On cosmetic side, I guess we will have the keel box frame clear coat painted.

Cheers,
Serhad

[fdsailor]

How's the build going? There seem to be a few of these boats cropping up at the moment...

[Jim Donovan]

Can I ask a loaded question? Was it always your intention to do the keel sump in carbon? Or did you decide to do that after the rule clarification, or... was there another motivation? I like it - looks sexy even if it's gonna get painted and no one will know. I'd be tempted to paint everything else white and leave that clearcoated, but.. I'm perverse like that.

There were some wording in the GP 26 rule that was unclear as to what materials could be used for the "keel support structure".

When it came time to build this on Kevin Farrar's boat, Kevin who is an international measurer and I read the rule over and over, and finally came to the conclusion that carbon was an acceptable material for this structure within the wording of the rule. It als made good sense to build this high load part in carbon; an e-glass keel frame is actually quite difficult to build with it's very thick laminates.

Then the next question was "what is a keel support structure?"

So quite a lot of discussioin occured over a few months with the ORC technical committee and other GP26 owner's/builders.
The 2011 rule was modified to more clearly define this keel support structure.
We also defined what a carbon keel fin could be at this time, as there was some "gray areas" in the rule that could potentially allow this.

Along with these mods, it was decided to allow 2-spreader aluminum rigs, which would help make these more competitive against carbon spars.

Additionally a keel bulb was made mandatory, and the weight would be controlled within a reasonable tolerance.

[windseekeryachts]

The build is going fine but slower than anticipated. We shifted one worker to our other project in the yard. So it is taking twice the time for one worker to finish the boat.
Latest Update:
All the interior structure is in.
we will paint the interior this week and then take the hull out of the mold.
The rig is expected in 1-2 weeks time.
The rudder stock is ready.
Keel bulb plug is CNC machined expected to be delivered friday.

Still tobe finished are:
Composite Keel fin
Composite rudder blade
Top coat
equipment installation.

I would say we are pretty close to launch and looking fwd to it...
I am waiting for some nice pictures of the boat to post without the dust etc.

[quasi-expert]

The build is going fine but slower than anticipated. We shifted one worker to our other project in the yard. So it is taking twice the time for one worker to finish the boat.
Latest Update:
All the interior structure is in.
we will paint the interior this week and then take the hull out of the mold.
The rig is expected in 1-2 weeks time.
The rudder stock is ready.
Keel bulb plug is CNC machined expected to be delivered friday.

Still tobe finished are:
Composite Keel fin
Composite rudder blade
Top coat
equipment installation.

I would say we are pretty close to launch and looking fwd to it...
I am waiting for some nice pictures of the boat to post without the dust etc.

I thought composite keel fins weren't allowed under the rule?! only steel plus fairing?

[Jim Donovan]

[/quote]

I thought composite keel fins weren't allowed under the rule?! only steel plus fairing?
[/quote]


The GP 26 rule for years allowed 10mm thickness of fairing material that was completely unrestricted. It was obvious that someone was going to make this faring out of carbon (if it hadn't happened already) so the class discussed what made the most sense. I pointed out that the Melges 24 had used carbon keel fins for almost 20 years, and there was little reason to force the GP26 to use only steel fins. To minimize the advantage of one type of fin over another, the max. carbon keel weight (including bulb) is 20kg lighter than a steel fin max keel weight. Fins need to be sealed so they cannot flood - no lead allowed in the fin - bulb weights for either type of fin construction are identical.

[jim lee]

What's wrong with lead in the fin?

-jim lee

[Jim Donovan]

What's wrong with lead in the fin?

-jim lee

Absolutely nothing wrong with it.

But at the start up of the GP 26 class we thought it would be good to add some rules that control the number of keels a competitive campaign would need.
The way the original rule was written, there was no requirement to even have a bulb on the keel, so you can see that this would generate some venue specific keel designs, and cause most top campaigns to have at least 2 or 3 keels in the quiver.

By not allowing lead in the fin, and fixing the bulb weight within a 60kg tolerance, there's not a lot of room to "play" with keels, other than with foil & bulb shape.
Note that the GP 26 rule has minium foil thickness defined at the top/middle/bottom of the fin, so this does a lot to constrain the practical minimum plannform of the fin.

As the class progresses and if the owners desire, there's no reason the keel rules couldn't change to allow more options.

[windseekeryachts]

now that our 42 ft. commuter boat has hit the water we are inches closer with the GP26.
We begin preparing the hull for paint the hull today...

here is a picture of the motorboat.

Attached Files

•  rsz_1100_2179 (1).jpg   100.8K   58 downloads

[Savage 17]

Is the rumor that I heard correct? The Donovan GP-26 (Production and Home built) is supposed to be faster then a Melges 32?

[SA Lurker]

Is the rumor that I heard correct? The Donovan GP-26 (Production and Home built) is supposed to be faster then a Melges 32?

What are you smoking?

[Savage 17]

That is what I told the person who told me!!!!

[SA Lurker]

That is what I told the person who told me!!!!

To be certain, Mr. Donovan's GP26 is a sweet little boat, but check out these vids of M32s from Copa Del Rey:

http://www.prensarcn...dice_busqueda=8

Likely worlds apart.

[Jim Donovan]

The goal for my GP 26 design is to be faster than another GP 26.

Logic dictates that if two designs with similar rig/keel/hull forms, and similar displacement/length & sail area/displacement ratios; the longer of these designs will be faster.

The GP 26 is approx 20% shorter than the M32, so it is highly unlikely that it will be faster than the 32 footer.
There could be some exceptions in very light wind conditions, but I haven't studied this case; it isn't a concern.

[Heriberto]

Is the rumor that I heard correct? The Donovan GP-26 (Production and Home built) is supposed to be faster then a Melges 32?

Which is more terrifying to be stuck in a cave with? Honey badger or wolverine? About as relevant.

[Conny71]

Honey Badger!

[barnone]

This boat looks awesome. My only negative comments are bummer on no lifting keel. Couldn't use the boat here as we don't have a crane. Also, the rig looks like a Melges rig. No adjustments like mast screw ala rocket or forestay tensioned ala Antrim? Adjusting the Melges rig is a pita.

I'm a bit surprised you are not using infusion. I know the Rockets were very inconsistent in weight and overweight until they went from regular vacuum bagging to infusion.

The site is still a bit scant on the fine details.

Great boat concept though. And that's a nice ass she's got.I like the designers comments about a boat that is better in the breeze than a Melges 24.

[barnone]

Saw this article and video on Rapid Transit. Hull lines look really similar.

http://www.sail-worl...=y&ntid=0&rid=4

[Jim Donovan]

This boat looks awesome. My only negative comments are bummer on no lifting keel. Couldn't use the boat here as we don't have a crane. Also, the rig looks like a Melges rig. No adjustments like mast screw ala rocket or forestay tensioned ala Antrim? Adjusting the Melges rig is a pita.

I'm a bit surprised you are not using infusion. I know the Rockets were very inconsistent in weight and overweight until they went from regular vacuum bagging to infusion.

The site is still a bit scant on the fine details.

Great boat concept though. And that's a nice ass she's got.I like the designers comments about a boat that is better in the breeze than a Melges 24.

Thanks for you positive comments on my design.
Interest in GP 26 class is increasng recently, with many new boats building - I hope to have 4 boats sailing or in construction this year.

GP 26 rule parameters require very carefully designed and built structures to meet the optimal displacement with the heaviest keel bulb.
So unfortunately a lifting keel (which adds structural weight) is not helping meet this goal of lowest possible structural weight.

The rig adjustment issue is defined by the class; no adjustable forestay. Adjutsable mast base is allowable and a pretty good idea.
Kevin Farrar has decided to have an adjustable forestay because he wants this, knowing that he'll need to disable it for class racing.

Generally you'll find the highest end racing yacht builders stay away from infusion beacasue of the weight issues.At this level of construction, infusion actually ends up heavier.
Not so much a problem for laminates (unless you're using uni directional materials), but the core bonding with infusion tends to add large amounts of resin to the cored panels.
Extremely precise core fit and bonding is required for the best racing yachts; if the core bonding is not done extremely well it will end up heavier than the laminates!

Getting well controlled hand-lay-up weight comes with careful material choices and laminating procedures.

From what I've seen and the information I have on weights, the quality of the Windseeker build is right up there with the best builders.

Jim D.

Attached Files

•  Windseeker Stern Shot.jpg   53.56K   47 downloads

[barnone]

Thanks Jim, that's really interesting about the layup and core bonding.