I’ve also been thinking about ways in which to convert a classic wooden boat build (with steam bent ribs/frames, etc.) into a more modern build. There are tons of classic boats that are beautiful that might be converted into CNC/stitch & glue and take advantage of modern plywood construction methods. This would entail having the plans digitized then using the stations as a template for drawing bulkheads that create the same shape.
One could also create laminated stems by bending them around forms that are cut, except you also have to account for some amount of springback. It would be an interesting exercise if you started with a boat design that incorporated a keel, deadwood, keelson, etc. and tried to figure out a way to make it CNC friendly without ruining the classic looks. I’m not ready to tackle this yet, but it’s an interesting concept.
BTW, another boat design that is CNC friendly is John Welsford’s SCAMP (Small Craft Advisory Magazine Project). While a bit more of an ambitious build (around $15K), you end up with a very capable and seaworthy expedition/camping boat. I have followed several build blogs and seen numerous of these in person in Port Townsend. If you don’t mind its unusual pug-nosed look (more buoyancy in the bow), there’s a lot of boat packed into 12’. It sports water ballast tanks for extra stability and there was a redesign to add a foot well for more ergonomics.
I have toyed around with the idea of building one, but for the price, you can buy a decent used fiberglass sailboat in the 20’-30’ range. I guess it just depends on the journey you want to embark on.
