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Custom Boatbuilding

 
 
  Custom Boatbuilding of small open and decked craft of modest length and size - that's what we do.
In close collaboration with the client we create the right boat for the intended use,
employing appropriate materials and construction techniques.

 
Bjorn Nikolajsen paddling a 12' wee rob, at age 7
 


Most clients approach us with just a vague idea about their needs, relying on our expertise to guide them towards the proper craft. Occasionally there are the ones who already have a set of plans and know what they want. In any case, we are prepared and willing to provide all the design consultation needed, typically at no charge as long as the client show commitment to have us build for them.

 
 
       
   

Non binding rough estimates are available by email or phone on any project, or you can go to our boats for sale page to see typical prices.
Generally speaking, very few boats rigged for sail and oar leave our shop for under $8-10k, while canoes, kayaks and skin boats are considerably less expensive.
Overall cost is based on material expenses and shop hours, and will vary from project to project.
Once an agreement with the client is in place the project will reserve the next available shop space, and materials can be ordered. Changes to a design during construction is not uncommon, but will often necessitate an adjustment of the original contract.

   

A deposit reflecting the total material expenses will be required before commissioning a boat.
Communication between the client and the shop during all stages is key to a successful project. Once construction starts, the client will receive weekly updates by email, complete with pictures and comments. Or, if convenient, clients are welcome in the shop any time to check on progress. Often they will be smitten by our passion for small boats and become close friends.
Most projects take between 3 to 6 months to complete, depending on type and complexity. Canoes, kayaks and skin boats are the simplest, while any boat with a sailing rig will be more time consuming.

     
 
       
 

We specialize in glued lapstrake construction, which is an appealing and strong contemporary technique with deep roots in traditional boatbuilding. Many of today's most influential designers of small adventure craft, like Oughtred and Welsford, focus entirely on this type of hull, given you many choices to find the right boat.
 

Socalled stitch-and-glue hulls are another construction technique used by today's builders. Typically the hull shape is less complex and pleasing to the eye, but great strengths and stiffness makes up for lack of esthetics. We have built several crafts to these specs, and can recommend a variety of high performance designs.