This publication is intended to provide the reader with a sound basic knowledge of ferrocement and its potential and limitations in boatbuilding. It is assumed that readers of this document are already familiar with the construction of small fishing boats. The publication covers all stages of building a small ferrocement fishing craft, from design and lofting requirements and techniques to repairs and the preparation and painting of a ferrocement hull. Information is presented on site, workshop, equipment, tools and launching systems; materials used in construction; testing and use of construction materials; construction of a ferrocement hull; repairs and joints in ferrocement; painting the ferrocement hull; requirements specific to ferrocement boat construction and ferrocement and timber fitting out; and guidelines available for building a boat to classification standards. The annex contains costings and drawings of a 12.8-metre ferrocement trawler built in India with FAO technical assistance.
