Case Study

Dr.Daniel  – DIY Builder

x6520HTO + TL6520HTO

• Daniel has a trade background as a pipe fitter, with prior welding experience but no direct boat-building experience.

• He managed the build alongside full-time work, completing fabrication during available downtime.

• Typically working one full 8-hour day per week on the kit, with occasional additional weeks of focused work.

• Estimated 600 hours total build time, including time spent documenting the build journey for Instagram.

Decision Process

• The idea began around four years ago, with a long-term goal of upgrading to a larger boat each year.

• Daniel visited multiple boat dealers and explored various options before settling on a 6.5m boat.

• Driveway space became a key factor, ultimately choosing the largest boat that would fit into his driveway.

Project Timeline

• Initial discussions and planning began early in the year prior to starting the build.

• Daniel ordered in May, with fabrication starting shortly after.

• It took approximately 8 months to reach a stage where the vessel was largely hotworked and ready for fit-out and refinements.

• Fabrication is mostly completed by early 2026.

• Original goal was to be on the water by early January, though the timeline extended due to content creation and additional custom work.

Design & Modifications

• Initial design changes were made in consultation with Daniel, with smaller refinements added throughout the build.

• The original plan was for a simple fit-out, but the scope expanded as the project progressed.

• The builder intends to complete the fit-out personally, estimating around three months to finish at this stage.

Challenges & Lessons

• Several challenges were encountered during the build, though many early concerns turned out not to be major issues once work progressed.

• Kit material lead times can affect the entire schedule, creating a domino effect if deliveries are delayed, which is why ordering early is recommended.

• Having access to support and guidance, through experienced builders, phone support, or training, helps significantly reduce risk during a DIY project.

Current Status

• Daniel’s Fabrication is largely complete and ready for fit-out and final refinements.

• Daniel has been documenting his build journey on Instagram and is definetley worth a scroll!