BUILDING A 12-1/2' SEMI-DORY FLAT-BOTTOMED SKIFF
A hands-on approach to traditional construction using easily obtainable materials.
- JOHN KARBOTT — SEPTEMBER 14–20
The dory design is an integral part of our maritime heritage. Throughout the generations it has long fascinated boat lovers. Over the years the dory has seen duty as a hard-working fishing boat, a lumberman’s log-driving bateau, a lifeboat, a recreational rowing boat, and a racing sailboat. The semi-dory, also known as a half-dory, evolved from this same proven design. The bottom rocker is reduced and the transom width increased, resulting in a boat that is more adaptable to the low-horsepower outboards. The lapstrake planking is hung onto knuckled sawn frames, which not only adds to the looks of the boat, but also increases its stability as it is loaded. Over time, semi-dories became a popular and widely used small craft type throughout New England, both as a workboat and for recreation.
In this course, boatbuilder John Karbott will lead students through the fundamentals of traditional wooden boat construction. The class project will be one of John’s handsome 12' semi-dory skiffs. Lofting the boat to full size will be step one. As the skiff takes shape on the lofting board, students will quickly recognize the importance of this procedure and the integral information acquired from it. Next, they will cut and bevel the stem piece and transom, cleat and bevel the planked flat bottom, and make up the building molds, which also double as permanent frames in the boat. Once the boat is framed, the class will set it up on the strongback, fair it, and begin the planking process. Because of plywood’s easy availability in most areas, this will be the chosen planking material, and students will have the opportunity to master scarfing techniques required to obtain the various lengths necessary. As the week progresses, everyone will be kept busy installing seat risers, thwarts, inwales and guards, breasthook and quarter knees as the skiff nears completion.
Throughout the course there will be ongoing discussions and detailed demonstrations of the construction methods being used, along with some alternatives. Fastening, tool sharpening, proper maintenance of wooden boats, paints and finishes, small-boat design, and the like will all be explored if there is interest. The relative simplicity of semi-dory construction makes this type particularly attractive to the first-time boatbuilder. With John Karbott’s able guidance and easygoing manner, students who sign up for this course are in for a real treat!
Tuition: $700
Note: This is a six-day course ending Saturday afternoon.
“John Karbott is a great teacher—thorough in his explanations, patient with his students, and his love for boatbuilding comes through in everything he does in the classroom.”