.
>
> There are a few features I would be particularly interested in getting feedback on. Fitting a
> boat like this into a container while sitting on its trailer is a tight squeeze. Since the
> preferred building technique is bending large flat panels, one issue is the tolerances of
> dimensions for the final boats. Assuming that a professional builder (I am thinking the
> chinese yard Rob is currently dealing with), if the design calls for a boat that collapses to
> 7'6", how likely is it that it will end up at 7'7" or even 7'8"? An inch or two may make all
> the difference in terms of getting it through the container door.

The build technique can certainly handle that level of precision. I
am assured that the qc in China is excellent. If the width is part of
the spec, then if they don't achieve it, they will have to start
again. However, achieving it is pretty simple as the flat panels are
placed in frames, which can be very accurate.

>
> Another question deals with maneuvering the trailer. Is it reasonable to think that one (not
> me, some other one) could back a 39' boat, 7'6" wide into a 39'6" container, 7'8" wide? Is
> that really enough margin?

Not really, but it could be done. I would put pieces of foam down the
sides and let it rub against them. Need to think about trailer design
as well. If it will need a crane to assemble it and/or put it in/out
of the water, you may be better off using rollers to get it in and
out. An inch each side will be plenty if this is done. I would also
buy your own container rather than use a different one each time.
Allows you to customise it.

>
> The aspect ratio of the sails is another question. With the schooner rig, I am hoping to
> keep the masts at 39'. The boom will be about 9' from the bottom, so I could have a 30'
> luff, and a 10' foot. With a full roach, I am thinking I might get 225 sq ft per sail, or 450
> sq ft overall. Is this adequate? Is the rig too squat to work well?

Depends what the boat weighs, but top of my head I would say you are
probably ok. Harry has 450 sq' and seems to get along ok. I usually
work on 80% plus for the roach, so that is 240 sq' per sail.

>
> I gather from other discussions that the chinese version of Rapscallion is estimate to run
> about $30K. I am hoping to bring this in just a little over; maybe $40K. Any opinions on
> my rationality?

Another data point: The 15m hulls, decks, beams and cabin, joined and
painted quote is $47,000. Fitout, rig and steering to be added.

Regards,

Rob