Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Build a Boat!

__________________________________________

Why the different riggers?

The RowWing use mounting kits to adapt to the Merrys, as well as, canoes and other hull designs.

What tools do I need?

Only simple every day hand tools and drill. A random orbit sander will save hours of hand sanding.

How long will it take to build?

Actual building time might be 40 -60 hours , a month of serious part time or a relaxed off season project. Remember that the precut kit saves at least another 40 hours of layout and cutting time. Jigless stitch & glue construction eliminates time consuming building frames.

I'm a first time builder. What skills are needed?

Common sense and patience. All parts are precision cut, even the bevels are done! The kit is really an assembly project using the simple stitch & glue process. The precision joinery is all ready done. Take your time, work neatly and have fun.

What's in the kit?

Pattern grade Honduras Mahogany hardwood and British Standard 1088 Okoume marine plywood are precision cut for accurate assembly. All the joinery has been done for you - finger joints replace scarfing. All wire, nails, screws, epoxy and fiberglass supplies are included. The complete custom RowWing rigger (about half the price of the kit) is also supplied! A bound assembly manual with forty-five color photographs guides you through the assembly process. Purchase "topside" paint for the exterior and spar varnish for the interior. Select any standard 9'+ sculling oar.

Can I use epoxy when its cold?

The 205 Fast Hardener cures as low as 40 degrees although warmer indoor temperatures are reccomended for clear coating. Ask for a free cold weather technique sheet or ask for 206 Slow Hardener if your work temperature is over 75 degrees

What happens if I have a problem building the kit?

Cheerful advice is always available - call 1-800-700-8059 or e-mail wayland@merrywherry.com if unsure or in a tight spot. Damaged parts are replaced whether your problem or ours.

How stable is it?

The Merry boats are very stable in all water conditions allowing one to release the oars and just drift about while admiring the scenery

Can I row in rough water?

The Merry hulls have lots of bow flare and freeboard to turn aside choppy water and power boat wakes.

Why a sliding-seat rowing boat versus a canoe or kayak?

Rowing is a non-impact aerobic sport using all major muscle groups. Leg power helps "pump the blood through our heart" for beneficial aerobic activity. Rowing is the perfect alternate sport to jogging, swimming, bicycling or cross country skiing. Other paddle sports use only the upper body, requiring strength but little aerobic activity - unless racing!

Why don't you sell plans?

The Merry kits are an integrated design using specific high quality materials and components. The precision cut kit provides these materials and everything else needed to successfully build your Merry kit without time consuming shopping for hard to find supplies. Merry kits are economically shipped worldwide. Resale values are high!

Why does it seem so expensive?

Everything is provided - even what you haven't thought of! The rigging, which is about half the kit price, is precisely manufactured (much like a fine bicycle) for smooth, quiet, and long lasting performance. Gougeon West System epoxy, applicator tools and all fiberglass fabrics are included. Quality silicon bronze fasteners, mahogany plywood and hardwoods are used - difficult to obtain in small select quantities. Customers that really research the cost of our kit are amazed that we can sell it for so little. You will save about $1,000 compared to a completed fiberglass boat - and save far more compared to a commercially built wood boat.

Wayland Marine, Ltd.

ICON
__________________________________________

Wayland Marine, Ltd.

On the Padden Creek Lagoon
817 Harris
Bellingham, WA 98225 USA

(800) 700-8059 (Continental US Only)
(360) 738-8059
10:30AM-4:30PM (Pacific Time) most weekdays
send e-mail wayland@merrywherry.com

Last changed 07/05/04