saves thinking quickly

[Geordie_Rob]

I don't think I would risk making a raft for use on the open seas mate. My dad has two fishing boats, 1 is a 30 footer & that gets chucked around all over if its rough so I think with a basic diy raft in those conditions, you would've condemned your loved ones to death. Obviously not in all cases, but I think most would go for the tree trunk & oil barrel type of raft.

Making a basic boat, provided the materials were to hand then you would stand a better chance. You would need some sort of propulsion though. A simple paddle is no use at all.

My method would be a basic hull made from timber & ply then coated in fibreglass to ensure its tough & waterproof. A simple mast with a tarp as a sail tied only at the top and a quick release system for unexpected gusts & a rudder on the back for steering. Some sort of cabin or shelter for the kids if it got really bad (again just a simple tarp would do).

Wouldn't really be a quick build.