Designer Profile - Alex (Sandy) Ferguson

Sandy has designed 5 kayaks suitable for day paddling or touring / camping. Christchurch based, Sandy has had a long association with kayaking in New Zealand. His designs are popular here and are currently being built from Whangarei to Christchurch. There should be a builder in your area who will let you test paddle their kayak to try the design.

Full size patterns and an instruction book are supplied. Sandy is also more than willing to answer any questions you have while building. He has four designs currently available:

Mac50

 

Length over all: 5.1m

Maximum Beam: 0.61m

Approx. Weight: 24kg *

The Mac50 is an efficient performing kayak which still retains a reasonable amount of initial stability. Large enough to use as a touring / camping kayak but responsive enough for day paddling. The plans for the Mac50 use the panel method of stitch and glue construction.

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Mist

Length over all: 5.0m

Maximum Beam: 0.61m

Approx. Weight: 18kg *

The Mist is made using the tortured ply method. It is a fast kayak designed for day paddling, although it can be used for minimalist touring. Because of the rounded hull it has a low initial stability, but rolling and bracing is done with ease. A fun boat to paddle.

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Encore

Length over all:

Maximum Beam:

Approx. Weight: *

The Encore is a seaworthy double. A proven design that has been used to circumnavigate Vanua Levu, Fiji. Ample room is available to carry a weeks worth of equipment for two people, yet sleek enough for efficient and energy conserving paddling.

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Seaward

Length over all:

Maximum Beam:

Approx. Weight: *

The Seaward is the predecessor of the Mac50 and Encore. With a larger displacement value than the Mac50, it is recommended for heavier people.

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* Weights quoted are approximate. Like all wooden kayaks, they depend on the amount of excess epoxy and the thickness of the ply used.

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Sandy's New Book!

A comprehensive guide to kayaking in the upper and mid South Island. A must have for anybody planning to paddle in NZ.

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The Mac50 at Marahau, getting wet for the FIRST time at the start of a 9 day trip.
Sandy originally designed it for the builder who is pictured seated in it.

If you are interested in these designs Sandy can be contacted by E-mailing to:
Alex Ferguson