1961 Dyer Midget repair

[DyerDhow]

I was just given a 1961 Dyer Dhow Midget (I know, there’s no such thing as a free boat...). I know it needs a new skeg and the gunwale is cracked and damaged. I’m pretty new to boating and wondered what the least expensive route would be to get it back into the water? Could I take the boat out for a row “as is”?
any help is appreciated!

 

[DyerDhow]

[No message]

 

[tpenfield]

As long as the boat floats, have at it. At the dinghy dock in my harbor, your boat would be one of the better ones.

I don't see anything that would stop you for a row around the harbor. It does look like it is missing some flotation, which would normally be under the seats.

As far as boats go, you got as simple as it gets.

 

[DyerDhow]

[No message]

 

[Woodonglass]

I agree, if there are No major leaks on the hull, then get her wet. The rest is pretty much cosmetic and can be addressed at your leisure.

 

[Ned L]

Agree,.... you can use it as is.

.............. if you are not aware of it, the Dyer midgets are VERY desirable boats. I believe replacement rub rails are available if you are not up to doing a proper job of it yourself.

I would suggest you do a bit of research on what you have before possibly doing any damage with a ‘rough’ job of it.

Great find you have there!!! Around here that would probably start with a $750 - $1000 price on it as it stands.

 

[tpenfield]

I found your boat's cousin this morning . . . sitting right next to my dinghy.



It looks like the sailing version, since it has a Centerboard Trunk and a hole in the forward seat for a mast.