Why to Use a Boat Kit When you can Design Your Own? To me, using a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) boat-kit is like painting “Van Gogh by Numbers” (You simply divide the painting into a grid and copy each cell). An then too, what if the one that you want to build is not available in the kit? Or you really liked a particular boat but the cabin was just not right; or not enough seating for the kind of outing you had in mind. Imagine the various other mix-and-match combinations that are possible if you decide to construct your own boat instead of bringing home a DIY kit. Is it a time consuming activity? Of course it is! But I'm thinking if you're the kind of person who is willing to assemble a DIY kit, you will definitely love the challenge of starting from scratch. And who says your circle of family and friends can't contribute. The basic boat building activity involves deciding on which type of boat you would like to construct. That is the one question you need to answer before you embark upon this project. And your purpose behind wanting to own a boat that you have put together will tell you whether you want a sailboat, a kayak, a canoe, a dinghy, a cruiser or any other type. The rest is all just research and some hard work – one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration – as they say! Boat designs and plans are available for free on the internet or are sold if that's what you prefer. Prices range from anywhere between $30 - $6000, depending on what you wish to build (Check http://www.dixdesign.com/priceabr.htm). There are various forums and expert panels to guide you throughout the process. There's a multitude of materials to choose from along comprehensive lists of building materials and tools that you would require. So go ahead, take the plunge! Build your very own ark!