Removed from the molds, the boat is moved across the street in Freienohl. The first stop is the milling room, where a precise full-deck template is used to cut any openings in the deck. This will include ports and hatches, stanchion bases and holes for every piece of deck hardware.
Meanwhile, interior joinery in teak or mahogany is being prepared. The solid-frame woodwork is fully assembled outside the boat, using top-quality hardware. Large panels of marine-grade plywood (ply does not warp like solid wood panels) are faced with matched-grain veneers, and cut to precision contours by computerized routers.
Automation has a place, yet the artisan's handcrafting skills are readily seen in the elegantly-curved companionway steps, fluidly-shaped countertop fiddles, tabletop trim, grabrails, stunning locker louver detailing, and myriad other interior elements.
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Once assembly is complete, the boat is moved to the rudder and keel mounting area, at which point she is made ready for shipping. |
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Now prepared for final assembly, the Dehler is moved to one of two assembly halls. The boats are positioned at work stations, and enclosed in modular flooring, allowing complete access. They will remain here for most of their construction time.
This is the area of the Dehler facilities that is most effected by the single-element construction, and contrasts most greatly with other builders.
Interiors are completed, and every component is passed through the companionway. Likewise, plumbing, wiring, installation of tanks and accessories-- even the engine-- are performed while the boat is essentially a boat. They can all be removed just as readily, should major service ever be needed.
