Description:
The KIS 4.0 is a compact 13-foot wooden dinghy designed for versatility, ease of handling, and efficient performance in sheltered waters. With a length overall of 4.04 meters and a generous 1.54-meter beam, the KIS 4.0 offers a stable and confidence-inspiring platform suitable for recreational boating, training, or tender use. Its balanced proportions allow for comfortable onboard movement while maintaining smooth tracking and responsive maneuverability.
Our workshop faithfully recreates this versatile design using premium marine materials-including Western Red Cedar, Mahogany, Teak, and marine plywood reinforced with U.S.-made fiberglass cloth, sealed with marine-grade epoxy and finished with System Three marine spar varnish. Each vessel is handcrafted using a traditional plank-on-frame or stitch-and-glue construction method, depending on configuration, ensuring a strong yet lightweight hull. Typical build time ranges from 3-4 months depending on finish and outfitting selections. .
Clients may customize wood finishes, seating configuration, interior layout, hardware fittings, and protective coatings-creating a personalized vessel tailored to recreational cruising, training programs, or light utility purposes.
General Specifications:
- Length Overall (LOA): 4.04 m (13 ft)
- Beam: 1.54 m
- Displacement (Hull Weight): Approximately 90 kg
Performance & Use:
The KIS 4.0 is suited for lakes, rivers, and protected coastal waters. Its moderate beam provides excellent initial stability, making it ideal for beginners and family outings. Lightweight yet solid in construction, it delivers smooth handling under various propulsion options depending on configuration. Combining reliability with classic wooden aesthetics, the KIS 4.0 serves as a versatile small craft for leisure and training alike.
This wooden boat crafted by us is built from woodenboat.com plans with full credit given to the original designers. For each custom commission, we acquire the appropriate plans and construct the vessel to order-offering both full-size boats and finely detailed scale models.
Disclaimer: KIS 4.0 13ft is a design by Paolo Lodigiani and Matteo Costa. Wooden Boat USA is not affiliated with or endorsed by Paolo Lodigiani or Matteo Costa in any way.
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History:
The KIS 4.0 was developed as part of a modern movement toward compact, practical dinghies that combine traditional wooden aesthetics with contemporary construction efficiency. Emerging in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, this design reflects the growing demand for small recreational boats that are lightweight, easy to transport, and suitable for family use in sheltered waters.
The name "KIS" is often associated with the "Keep It Simple" philosophy in boat design-prioritizing straightforward construction, structural reliability, and user-friendly handling. The 4.0-meter platform was conceived to provide a balanced hull form with generous beam for stability, while keeping displacement moderate at approximately 90 kg for ease of launching and storage. Its proportions align with the broader trend of versatile dinghies that can serve as tenders, training boats, or recreational craft.
Over time, the KIS 4.0 has become appreciated among amateur builders and small-boat enthusiasts for its manageable size and adaptability. It stands as a representative of modern wooden dinghy design-bridging traditional craftsmanship with practical, everyday boating needs.