Family Boat Building
A small wooden rowboat might seem like a simple toy to some, but to others it is a treasure. The hours spent with one’s family crafting a traditional vessel are a stark contrast to today’s standard weekend of television, video games, soccer, and birthdays. Under the guidance of competent boat building volunteers, each person involved plays a role as the wood is sanded, shaped, fastened, and coated. New skills are learned. Challenges are met. And the final product boasts of teamwork, pride, and accomplishment.
NO prior boat building experience is necessary. There will be helpful, qualified boat builders to assist you throughout the process. The event is limited to 10 families. Youth groups, community organization, churches, and business groups are also welcome. Most of the boat’s pieces will be precut. The boats will be constructed using high-quality okumee marine plywood, Spanish cedar for the transom and cypress framing. After the festival, the rowboat is yours to take home for years of enjoyment!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
♣ 9:00 a.m. orientation and begin building
♣ Various breaks and chance to explore the festival grounds and Tall Ships®
♣ 6:00 p.m. Wooden Boat Appreciation Party - 2 adult tickets and 2 children’s tickets provided with registration, Charleston Maritime Center.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
♣ 1:30 p.m. Launch of boats and float test
The fee for each Family Boat Building team is $500 thanks to the South Carolina Maritime Foundation who underwrites a portion of the kits and sponsors that donate the materials needed for construction. You retain the boat, oars, oar locks, and great pride of having constructed your very own 12 foot Charleston Bateau.
FAMILY BOAT BUILDING APPLICATION (pdf).
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