CBMM (Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum) is conducting an Apprentice for a Day weekend boatbuilding program through July whereby the public can participate in the construction of a 12-foot lapstrake skiff. This program is an opportunity for people who love boats to learn more about the craft of boatbuilding while also making a contribution to the CBMM’s mission of preserving the Chesapeake Bay maritime heritage. The details of the project schedule and more information about this program are available on the CBMM’s website (cbmm.org/shipyardprograms).
The Apprentice for a Day boatbuilding program is a hands-on learning experience that provides individuals with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the art of traditional boatbuilding from start to finish. Participants will work under the guidance of skilled boatbuilders, who will teach them the necessary techniques and skills to build a beautiful and functional lapstrake skiff. The program is open to people of all skill levels, including those who have never worked on a boat before.
The skiff that will be constructed during this program is a lapstrake skiff, which is a distinct type of boat that is characterized by its overlapping planks. Lapstrake construction is an ancient boatbuilding technique that is still used today, particularly in the construction of smaller boats like skiffs. The skiff that will be constructed in this program will be made from marine plywood and will feature a traditional lapstrake hull. This type of boat is known for its stability and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced boaters alike.
The boatbuilding program will take place over several weekends in July. Participants can sign up for one or more of these weekends, depending on their availability and interest. The program will begin with an orientation session where participants will be introduced to the boatbuilding process and the tools and materials that will be used. They will then begin the actual construction work, which will involve cutting and shaping the plywood planks, fitting them together using traditional lapstrake techniques, and finishing the boat with paint and varnish.
Throughout the program, participants will have the opportunity to work on different aspects of the boat, such as the hull, the keel, the frame, and the deck. They will also learn about the different types of tools and materials used in boatbuilding, such as chisels, saws, drills, and epoxy. In addition to these practical skills, participants will also learn about the history and culture of boatbuilding on the Chesapeake Bay, and how this tradition has evolved over time.
The Apprentice for a Day program is a unique and rewarding experience that offers participants the opportunity to learn about traditional boatbuilding techniques while also contributing to the preservation of the Chesapeake Bay maritime heritage. The program is open to people of all ages and skill levels, and no prior boatbuilding experience is required. It is an excellent way to learn new skills, make new friends, and connect with the rich history and culture of the Chesapeake Bay.
Posted by Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Photos on 2018-05-31 15:06:07
