Any wooden boat people out there? I want to modify my 6m (19ft) open rowing/sailing dory...?

Question

... to remove the centreboard and thwarts and install a recumbant bicycle connected through a drive shaft to a variable pitch propellor.

Advice? What problems might I encounter? This seems like such a good idea to me but I'm worried because I've never seen anyone else do it.

[p.s. - I like rowing but I'm tired of going backwards and looking over my shoulder to see where I'm going. I'm also an avid cyclist so I like the idea of unbolting the bike when I get to where I'm going, putting on wheels and off I go. I'm going to give up on the sailing rig and try to go with cycle power and/or rowing and/or paddling]

Thanks for your input in advance.

Answer 1

I've tried the same on kayak and didn't buy into its tech'.

My objections included the increased mechanical failure

potential and the too frequent debris or plants one must sometimes plow over.  Suggest reader be wary of kelp.

Answer 2

I don't have any good ideas but how did Dave M get to be a top contributor with answers like this one? I guess it's quantity that counts around here.

Answer 3

Jeez...good luck with that!

Answer 4

sorry can't help

Answer 5

I have owned many boats, large and small. And have even lived on some. For your experimental needs I would advise a smaller fiberglass boat. They are more easily modified with the right epoxies. Or a small pontoon boat. Working with wood is very unforgiving. Also there is a device you can buy that allows you to row forward while facing forward. It is a sort of hinge affair that pivots in the middle. You have to cut your oars in half, but the installation is simple.