Heard 28, Self build?

[Gerrardp]

Hi, top of my wish list is a Heard 28 although I'm not in a position to buy until next July 2013. I'm aware of one for sale at a reasonable price which needs some work but the cabin layout is not suitable. If its still around next year it could be an option however I would need to rip out the interior and start again however a reasonably priced boat then becomes an expensive one. I have spoken to Sam Heard who states he may be able to supply a hull for fitting out. I do have some experience and I have access to someone who's even more handy. Has anyone done this. Any advice or better still pics of the build would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks Pete.

[malbec]

Have only just read your post.
I followed the construction of my Heard 28 from it coming out of the mould to launching ten years ago.
A lot of work went into building it.
You may actually find it easier to convert an existing boat rather than build from scratch. The advantage would be that the ballast would already be in place as well as bulkheads, deck beams and stern tube and engine. It would of course depend upon the donor vessel. There are not many around for sale and some are a bit rough where others are really very nice. No two boats are the same and you may in fact find one with the layout you desire.
Take a look at the Gaffers & Luggers association web site GALA...
www.galawebsite.co.uk and place a wanted ad. Unfortunately not many 28 owners are active on the site though.
I would ask Sam if he knows of any 28s likely to be for sale. There is one in particular that he looks after each winter which may be for sale, but the layout and price may not suit of course.
Remember that the 5 tons of ballast weighs more than the average 28ft AWB !
If you do self build then it would make a great post on the GALA website !