Cast off on a new adventure for a fun-filled week of boatbuilding and time on the water. Budding boatbuilders will discover the wonders of transforming raw materials into a simple cat rigged model sailboat. In this hands-on camp, participants will work to produce their very own boat that we’ll launch and sail on the final day. Along the way, we’ll introduce some basic tool usage, measuring, knots, and concepts such as buoyancy and displacement. Over the week, campers will also sail the Gundalow, row our Piscataqua Wherries, paddle small kayaks and explore the rivers and waterfront of the Portsmouth region.

Campers will spend an exciting week building their own wooden model sailboats from scratch. Each camper will discover the fundamentals of boatbuilding and learn how to use basic woodworking skills to experience the magic of transforming a drawing and raw materials into a 3-dimensional model sailing boat. Along the way, focus on proper tool usage, measuring, knots, and discussing concepts such as buoyancy and displacement.  The week will culminate with campers launching and sailing their finished boats before taking them home for future adventures! Over the week, campers will also sail the Gundalow, row our Piscataqua Wherries, paddle small kayaks and explore the rivers and waterfront of the Portsmouth region. 

*Past Boatshop campers are invited to apply to join the crew for this new camp for middle school-age campers

Join us for a week of boatbuilding, seamanship and adventure. As carpenters, campers will continue to improve their tool use techniques by crafting a set of oars and working on other boat-related projects. Time will be spent each day on building practical on-the-water seamanship skills including safety and preparation, and operating traditional boats with oar and sail in concert with the local conditions. Over the course of the week, our adventures will offer opportunities to explore how and why boats operated in these waters over the centuries and what it tells us about this place we call home. This camp is for anyone who is excited to deepen their interest in boatbuilding and operating traditional craft. 

APPLICATION PROCESS: Thank you for applying. This application process is now CLOSED. All campers have been selected and notified. If you would like to be added to the WAITLIST please email Amanda at [email protected]