Calling All PocketShip Builders

Hi all. I was previously a member the CLC PocketShip Forum, which has been defunct for some time now. I’m posting here in the hope of connecting with other PocketShip builders around the globe. My blog is TheEynshamPocketShip.co.uk - hoping to hear from you here or on my blog! Best wishes from the UK.

The site link above seems to require the full prefix: https://www.theeynshampocketship.co.uk/

Yes, it’s very unfortunate that the Pocketship site seems dead. It was an active forum and I learned a lot from my fellow builders. Pocketship topics do come up here from time to time and a lot of the tips and techniques for smaller boats apply well to the Pocketship.

Thanks for the reply, Steve. I too learned a lot from the PocketShip forum. I’m near the end of my build now and I wanted to talk to people about getting ready to sail and actually sailing PocketShip. Topics like which anchor to use, and are electric outboards really worth it?

I also found painting to be an adventure in itself - lots of problems and learnings! I am now using Epifanes exclusively, with good results. What do others think about Epifanes? I’m using mono urethane gloss and traditional varnish.

Hi Nancy. Is it possible for me to edit my post to include the working link, or should I make another post? Thank you!

I’m planning an electric outboard for my SW Dory. She’s not a pocketship but she’s not small either.

FYI - With the new forum software, anyone can edit their own posts. Just click on the pencil icon in the toolbar immediately under your post. Note - this only works for posts that you originated. The pencil is not visible to you for other peoples’ posts.

Laszlo

I have the EPropulsion motor and it works well with the Pocketship. I don’t think I’ve ever used more than about 25% of the battery. It quiet and non-stinky.

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I’m pushing my West Wight Potter 15 with an ePropulsion eLite - 500w, 1.5 hp equivalent. It’s nominally also a 14-ft pocket cruiser, but a side-by-side comparison shows the fallacy in that statement.


That said, the electric outboard works great as auxiliary power. You’d probably want a physically larger unit for the Pocketship just so it would fit on the transom properly. A little more power would probably be nice since the Pocketship is more boat. The main advantages for me are the cleanliness, the quiet, the lack of exhaust and the low weight. A big secondary advantage is the mechanical simplicity. There’s a lot less to go wrong.

Another nice feature is that once I’m done using it, I can lift it into the cockpit, sponge off the water and stow it in the cabin. No dirt, flammable liquids dripping out and no toxic fumes. So my pricey eggbeater stays secure from the weather, prying eyes and sticky fingers.

Finally, I do not have a container of flammable liquid that can release vapors in explosive concentrations. The batteries are LiFePO, a fire resistant chemistry.

If you can afford it, go for it.

Thanks Steve. I have been looking at the ePropulsion range of motors for some time. Which model do you have, and how long do you run it for? Is range a concern?

Hi Laszlo. You’re the second person to mention ePropulsion motors today! I’m encouraged by your comments. And you’re right - I would need a bigger motor for PocketShip. I am attracted to an electric unit for the very reasons that you highlight. I think such a motor would justify the extra expense. Thanks for getting in touch.