Boat Building: How Does Hanneke Boon’s Expertise Shape the World of Wharram Catamarans?
Hanneke Boon is an integral part of James Wharram Designs. Her expertise? Boat design, boat building and sailing. She was born into a family of sailors in the Netherlands. By 14, she was already constructing and sailing her first Polynesian Catamaran.
She joined the James Wharram team at 20, where her artistic skills and practical boatbuilding knowledge blossomed. Soon becoming a co-designer with James Wharram, producing some of the most clear and detailed boat building plans. The concept of ‘simplicity’ is a common theme in Wharram’s designs, their detailed illustrations have been a guide for DIY builders since the 70s.
Hanneke is quite the sailor, crossing the Atlantic twice on Tehini in the 1970s, sailing round the world on Spirit of Gaia in the 1990s, exploring as far as Iceland in 1999 and sailing the Lapita Voyage in the Western Pacific in 2008. She is now the captain of Spirit of Gaia and recently sailed the length of the Mediterranean, completing the last stretch to Portugal with an all women crew.
However, this isn’t her only talent, Hanneke’s boatbuilding skills go beyond theory—she has been involved in the construction of over sixteen Wharram designs, including the 63ft Spirit of Gaia. She is also proficient in epoxy techniques having refined them over 40 years, as can be seen in her instructional videos. When not designing, she chooses to explore sail-rigs and has shared James Wharram’s interest in Marine Archaeology and Canoe form watercraft origins.
What was the last project Hanneke was involved in?
In 2016, Hanneke presented the Mana 24, a distinctive catamaran that doubles as a mobile camping solution for families. This DIY kit is complete with CNC machine-cut plywood parts that all slot together with wedges making assembly very quick and easy.
The Mana 24, designed specifically for trailer sailing, held sentimental value for James Wharram. Its length mirrors that of ‘Tangaroa’, his first catamaran that made a successful Atlantic crossing in 1956. The Mana 24 merges the best of the TIKI 21 and TIKI 26 designs, offering easy handling and ample interior space. Its innovative design includes wider bunks placed aft and robust webbing straps and over-centre buckles for quick and secure joining of hulls and beams.
What types of materials were used for the project?
Wharram Designs have been dedicated users of WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy since its inception in 1980, and their designs use this system to best advantage.
They have created 19 designs, ranging from 14ft to 65ft, all built in ply/epoxy. These designs have been brought to life worldwide by thousands of self-builders.
“For the benefit of our builders and others I made several instructional videos (whilst building the Mana 24). The video ‘Making perfect epoxy fillets’ has had over 135,000 views.” – Hanneke Boon
What is the process when building a catamaran, and how is the client’s vision incorporated into designs?
Hanneke provides an enlightening look into catamaran construction through her educational videos. One illustrates the assembly of the Wharram Mana 24 kit’s lower hull, while the other demonstrates the epoxy glassing technique.
Her forte lies in producing stock designs. These designs consist of very detailed and pictorial plans that are considered a course in ply/epoxy boatbuilding.
While ‘Wharram Designs’ don’t typically venture into custom designs, they’re always ready to assist builders with minor adjustments. The goal is to blend the client’s vision with the original blueprint. They do have a franchised professional builder in the Philippines who will customise their designs for the client in liaison with Hanneke.
In their boat construction techniques, they draw from their 40 years of experience in using ply/epoxy. Over time, they’ve successfully resolved any challenges, and developed simple construction solutions that their builders can follow exceptionally well.
Have any influential figures or sources of inspiration shaped your work in boat construction?
Drawing inspiration from the ancient double canoes of Polynesians, they have ingeniously adapted them to the modern era without losing the basic design principles. Their focus lies in light weight ply/epoxy construction, all while preserving the essence and simplicity inherent in those venerable ancient forms.
As trailblazers in multihull design, ‘Wharram Designs’ have managed to bring fresh ideas to their already established practices.
In the 1990s, a voyage around the world involved the study of Pacific canoe craft and led to the creation of the Wharram Ethnic Designs. These designs are unique to James Wharram Designs and are modelled on traditional Pacific sailing canoes. Their hulls are built in simple ply/epoxy and are finished with natural wood craft, traditional sail rigs and rope lashings to maintain cultural authenticity and keep costs low. The designs were a response to Pacific Islanders’ requests for boats that reflect their traditions, with adaptations to the scarcity of traditional building materials.
What are your plans for your business? Are there any upcoming projects that you’re particularly excited about?
In an era where complexity and high-tech often overshadows simplicity, there’s a growing trend among today’s youth for a simpler, more natural way of living and Wharram catamarans are answering that call.
The company is passionate about supporting these sea seekers with designs for self-built catamarans, enabling a relaxed life on the water. Their stories, shared through social media, create a sense of community among those with similar aspirations.
Each year, the Wharram community comes together at the Hui, a gathering that’s become a highlight for many. This year, it’s taking place from August 3rd to 5th in the peaceful Restronguet Creek, Cornwall, shaping up an event to remember.
Wharram has established business relationships with multiple kit producers to manufacture the CNC Mana 24 kit. Collaborations with Chesapeake Light Craft in America, Fyne Boat Kits in the UK, and a Brisbane-based firm ensure the kit’s availability for the Australian market. These partnerships reflect a strategic effort to support the global community of catamaran builders and sailors.
Hanneke finds joy in boatbuilding, especially when a new boat successfully takes to the sea. “Personally, I get great satisfaction when the boat is finished and sailing, when I discover that the design works and the structure is sound and strong.”
Do Wharram participate in any local events or markets to showcase their boats?
They’ve shifted away from boat shows, finding them overly centered on modern plastic boats and electronics. The Beale Park Boatshow, once a favourite, is no more. Instead, they host their own Hui gatherings and stay connected with the community through social media.
What essential tips should beginner boat builders follow for success?
When Hanneke was asked for guidance on boat building, she shared, “Build a small boat, get it on the water and learn to sail.” She encourages starting with a manageable project to gain firsthand experience. If one finds joy in this, she advises to “build a bigger one.” Her designs are crafted to be accessible to those new to boat building, with “construction methods [that] are simple,” and an educational approach that teaches the skills as the project progresses. Hanneke notes that for many, constructing their own Wharram Catamaran has been a pivotal experience, often leading to positive changes in their lives.
Interested in learning more about Wharram Catamarans? View their website hub of designs and stories here.
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