Projects: Rising from Ashes – The Haven 12.5 Project
Tell us a bit about your background and what motivated or inspired you to enter the boat industry?
When I was 13 years old, I started building my very first wooden boat using Geoffrey Prout’s flatty design. It was an experience that ignited a deep passion for boats within me, later inspiring me to pursue the Haven 12.5. I spent countless hours exploring the Thames estuary on clinker-built wooden boats. These experiences allowed me to constantly improve my skills and broaden my understanding of boat design.
One of the most memorable experiences during my journey with boats was a remarkable trip to France. It happened during a school’s summer holiday. My friends and I embarked on this adventure aboard a locally built Sea-king 23 ft gaff rigged yacht. It was a challenging yet exhilarating voyage that solidified my love for sailing and boats even more. While pursuing my economics studies at Norwich university, my fascination with boats remained continual. Although I managed to fit in some dinghy sailing on the Norfolk Broads, my true calling resided in the transformative art of boat building. It became clear to me that boat building was my passion. There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking a pile of wood and skillfully crafting it into a fully functioning vessel. This achievement never fails to captivate me.
After completing my education, I had the opportunity to spend some time in Greece, where I worked on maintaining a fleet of wooden boats. During this time, I gained valuable knowledge and experience fitting out larger steel craft and laying sprung teak decks using epoxy. In addition to that, I also took on a personal project and built my own steel cruising yacht. Once the yacht was completed, I embarked on a sailing journey in the Mediterranean, enjoying a couple of years exploring the waters.
In addition to that, I also took on a personal project and built my own steel cruising yacht. Later, I became involved in producing patterns for Prout Catamaran production craft and eventually becoming their general production manager. About 25 years ago, I made the decision to move to Ireland. There, I built a traditional postern beam house and workshop, where I now build wooden craft on a part-time basis.
What is the Haven 12.5 project?
The Herreshoff 12.5 Sailing Day boat has always held a special place in my heart. I always had a keen interest in its timeless design. When I stumbled upon the plans for the Joel White version, known as the Haven 12.5, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to bring this beauty to life. I eagerly purchased the plans from the States and started on the journey of building a cold moulded version, 10 years ago, for a client based in the UK.
Driven by my passion for sailing and the desire to have a boat of my own, I made the decision to construct another Herreshoff 12.5 for myself. My intention was to sail it on the waters of Loughrea in Ireland, the place I now call home. However, fate dealt me a cruel blow during the challenging times of the Covid lockdown. A devastating fire engulfed both my boat and workshop, reducing them to ashes.
After much consideration, I finally decided to rebuild my workshop and attempt my creation of the third Haven 12.5. I’m now halfway constructing the boat and eagerly anticipating its launch next summer in 2024. The Herreshoff 12.5, a design that dates back to 1914, originally utilized a complex production mold to manufacture it. I specifically crafted the mold to create the oak ribs for future vessels. Currently, I find myself in the final stages of carefully lifting the hull from this historic mould. Since I have no plans to construct a fourth Haven 12.5, I am delighted to offer these remarkable moulds to anyone who is interested in building their own vessel.
In addition to the moulds, I have amassed a valuable collection of component templates, which would serve as an invaluable resource for any aspiring builder. These templates are poised to greatly enhance the construction journey and provide a solid foundation for success. I extend a warm invitation to all those in Ireland who are captivated by this project and have a desire to undertake this extraordinary endeavour. If you’re interested in this unique opportunity, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me.
What materials and tools did you use for the build of the Haven 12.5 project, and why did you choose them?
When it came to selecting materials for the boat, I made thoughtful choices to ensure both strength and durability. For the frames, I utilised robust green Irish oak, providing a sturdy foundation. To construct the hull, I opted for stripped plank western red cedar, which strikes a balance between lightness and strength. Adding an outer layer, I applied a double diagonal mahogany veneer. As for the mast, I turned to solid Douglas fir, renowned for its resilience and flexibility, ensuring optimal performance on the water. Mahogany served as the primary trim material throughout the boat.
To ensure the boat’s longevity and maintain its quality, I applied a mix WEST SYSTEM 105 Epoxy Resin® with the WEST SYSTEM 205 Fast Hardener®. This combination not only delivers exceptional adhesion but also enhances durability, enabling the boat to withstand diverse weather conditions. To further enhance the structural integrity, I incorporated the WEST SYSTEM® 406 Colloidal Silica Thickening Agent. It provided the necessary viscosity for precise application and established a robust bond.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out with boat building or a similar DIY project?
For those considering taking on a project like this, it’s important to understand the significant amount of time, skill, and resources it will demand. Underestimating these factors can lead to difficulties down the line. It’s crucial not to compromise on the quality of materials, as cutting corners can negatively affect the final result. Paying close attention to accuracy during the initial stages is essential to avoid any setbacks in the future.
To get in touch with Stephen Mitchell, you can find his contact details below…
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