The decision to build your own boat is a big one. Most builders think about it for a very long time, weighing the pros and cons, fighting the urge to just dive right in! Many worry they don't have the skills, when in fact, there are many boats of all sizes being built by people with little to no experience. All it takes is the right plans and support throughout the process from an experienced designer.
I started Smith Marine Design in 2003 as a full service design firm. Originally focused on serving the many small boat manufacturers who can't afford the expense of having a designer on staff, I also found a number of people who wanted to build their own boat in their garage. I soon found myself devoting a good deal of my day to answering questions from prospective builders and sending out stock plan sets.
In 2014 I found I could no longer design custom boats or take on new design clients due to an ongoing health issue. Smith Marine Design is now focused solely on stock plans only. You'll find the stock plans currently available by clicking the Stock Plans button on the nav bar above (I am so clever!). You will also find photo galleries of boats under construction at the Underway button. In The Hold you will find examples of custom and production designs from the past, as well as some preliminary designs that have yet to be finished. Some of these may one day become stock plans. Just Thinkin' contains some of my ramblings on boats as well as updates on my health for those who care.
I am still designing and have new designs on the board, so check back again if you don't see a design that fits your needs. Thanks for visiting Smith Marine Design and don't hesitate to contact me should you have any questions.
