BUILD YOUR OWN ANNAPOLIS WHERRY
Experience the ultimate in a recreational, open-water pulling boat.
BILL THOMAS — JUNE 15–21
There are few things in life as pleasant as rowing an elegant lapstrake wherry, and few ways to get as thorough a workout. At 65 lbs, she is easy to cartop and fast under oars. Her burden of 400 pounds allows for a passenger or camping gear. Though the Annapolis Wherry may be rowed as a fixed-seat boat with one or two oarsmen, she is at her best as a sliding-seat boat. She is designed to use an off-the-shelf Piantedosi drop-in rowing unit, so the builder need not fabricate riggers.
While the wherry appears to be a conventional glued-lap boat, she is actually built using the Lapstitch™ method. This new technique developed by Chris Kulczycki eliminates the need for forms, a strongback, and the rolling bevel at the lap joints. Lapstitch™ construction makes it possible for each student to leave with a completed, though unpainted, fixed-seat wherry. For anyone who wishes to install a sliding seat unit, Bill will be available when the class concludes on Saturday afternoon.
Building an 18' pulling boat in a week is no mean task, even when beginning with pre-cut planks, as students will in this course. So come prepared for a busy week of intense boatbuilding. Of course, you’ll do a lot more than just build your own boat. Along the way, students will learn about traditional and Lapstitch™ construction techniques, rowing boat design, safe epoxy use, fiberglass application, and finishing techniques. It will be an exciting week with an outstanding boatbuilder to guide you through your project!
Tuition: $700 (partner: $350)
Materials: $1250
Note: This is a six-day course ending Saturday afternoon.
“Bill Thomas is first-rate. Very encouraging. Always a positive attitude. Exceptional planning and preparation. Never a wasted moment or lost opportunity. His passion for kayaking and the outdoors shines through. His Willow course was one of the very best experiences I have had at WoodenBoat School.”
“I just wanted to say what a great atmosphere and environment you’ve created. It constantly comes out in how people feel so relaxed and at home here. Thanks for all your efforts.”