Wooden Boat Building in New England

I've heard many people remark that wooden boat building is the highest expression of the carpenter's craft. From simply built workboats to highly polished yachts, few other enterprises combine such a wonderful balance of function and design.

But who in their right mind would consider building a wooden boat?

I guess you would say it's a statement. A sort of declaration of independence. After all, our forefathers built them in their backyards, barns and workshops well before huge factories existed. Many of the best boat designs we have today originated as small fishing boats, conceived as a means for survival. And wooden boat building, especially of small craft, is still efficiently done by individual craftsmen.

You can call me crazy or bitten by the boat bug,
but the satisfaction justifies it.

We are truly fortunate today to have so many great reference books and boat designs to choose from. Have a look at a few sailboat designs you can build using either traditional or glued lapstrake construction.
Also visit our New England Wooden Boat Gallery where we publish some fine examples of both first-time and professional boat builders.

Seeing the work in progress

While the books I recommend provide a good head start for backyard boat builders, a great way to gain perspective is to see a work in progress. One of the best places to gather ideas is at the shop of a well-respected boat builder or by visiting one of our maritime museums.
The Small Craft Workshop Weekend at Mystic Seaport offers an opportunity to try out some boats as well.

The start of our season is kicked off in March when people flock to the
Maine Boat Builders Show in Portland Maine. Most of us have a wicked case of cabin fever right about now and can't wait to get out on the water.

It may be just a temporary cure for sailing, but here's a place where you can make some valuable connections. The event is filled with wooden boat builders. Also find sources for your boat building plans and boat building supplies.

Wooden Boat Builders

The construction of large yachts and schooners is beyond the scope of this website. Instead, I provide some links to some of the best boat builders I know who have accomplished some very fine boats to this scale. Several of them also specialize in small craft. And most will welcome the chance to talk over your plans.

• Thad Danielson
  Redd's Pond Boatworks, Marblehead
  Thad both builds and restores classic wooden sailboats.
  Visit Redd's Pond

• Harold Burham
  H. A. Burnham Boat Building, Essex
  Harold carries on the fine family tradition the Essex shipwrights began in 1635. To his credit are some of the boats featured in our New England Wooden Boat Gallery.
  Visit H.A. Burnham

• Nat Benjamin
  Gannon and Benjamin Marine Railway, Martha's Vineyard
  Nat has some fine traditional sail boats to his credit.
  Visit the Marine Railway