Introduction to Wooden Boatbuilding

This is a five-day course.

Have you ever dreamed of building your own boat but weren’t sure where to begin? For many aspiring boatbuilders, getting started can be the most intimidating part of the process. This five-day course, led by WoodenBoat School Director and boatbuilder Michael Gorman, provides the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take the first steps toward building a wooden boat of your own.

Through the process of building the Susan Skiff, students will explore the fundamentals of traditional wooden boatbuilding with both hands-on instruction and demonstrations. Beginning with an introduction to reading boat plans and lofting, the course progresses through essential techniques including scarfing, framing, planking, and interior joinerwork. No previous boatbuilding experience is necessary—just curiosity and a willingness to learn.

Throughout the week, Michael will also lead discussions on choosing an appropriate design for the amateur builder, setting up a one-person workshop, and using hand and power tools safely and effectively. Along the way, students will gain a clearer understanding of the boatbuilding process, from interpreting plans to seeing how the many individual steps come together to create a finished vessel.

Whether you’re preparing to build a boat of your own or simply looking for an engaging introduction to wooden boats and traditional craftsmanship, this course offers an inviting place to begin.