Build Your Own Mini Boat

Has the cost of a boat kept you from fulfilling your lifelong dream of owning one? Build your own six foot mini boat with the help of Rapid Whale. Industrial Designer and Recreational Engineer Josh Tulberg (the man behind Rapid Whale) has put together a kit that will let you build your own one-person boat in your spare time for two grand or less depending on how creative you want to get. The Rapid Whale Mini Boat kit includes laser cut marine plywood, 3D printed components, steering wheel, steering-shaft bearings and various gaskets. When all is said and done, you’ll have a 70lb boat that’s easy to transport and store, and is a helluva lot of fun on the water. Kits are available direct from Rapid Whale for $950 plus shipping in the continental U.S., but you’ll also need to pick up some off-the-shelf components (motor, battery, seat, etc.) that will set you back another $500–$1,110 depending on how much work you want to do to locally source parts and materials.