How to Build a Runabout for a Boat

For some boat marinas, you need a separate means of transport between the boat and land. For this reason, many boat owners utilize a small dingy or runabout boat for basic transport. You can create a runabout using a small boat and a few simple materials. When it's finished, you can use the small craft for basic movement in the harbor, floating around the main boat to check maintenance, or taking short trips in the nearby area.

Things You'll Need

  • Small boat or dingy
  • Small outboard engine
  • Wooden board
  • Crescent wrenches
  • Socket wrench
  • Hardware nuts and bolts
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Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain a small wood boat or inflatable dingy that can seat at least two or three people. Tie the craft to the back of your main boat when not in use so it won't float away.

    • 2

      Obtain a small outboard motor. Bolt the motor to the back of your wood dingy or place a wood board inside the inflatable raft to provide a foundation for the outboard motor. Use a socket wrench, a crescent wrench, and nuts and bolts to tighten the motor to the wood frame.

    • 3

      Make sure the propeller of the outboard motor is submerged under water. Place your body weight in the middle of the boat and pull the motor rip cord to start the engine. Untie the runabout boat from your main boat and use the craft as necessary.