I have found that I can bend the planks with out actually heating them.
I have an old electric kettle that I fill with water and this cover at least half the length of a plank. I select the number of planks that I may need and leave them soaking over night.
When it come to the bending to the bow I gently follow the curve that is needed and then just do a temporary pinning just to hold the plank there till it dries. When it is dry I do the complete gluing and pinning.
I should mention that before soaking the plank it pays to do your chamfering
I have done 5 planks this way so far and have had none break yet. I think the secret is to give them a good soaking and be patient.
Mind you, heating may be required with some of the deep curves on the stern.

Cheers
Cliff