Mission

The Wooden Boat School was founded by the Hudson River Maritime Museum in 2015 to preserve the maritime craft traditions of the Hudson Valley and to teach a hands-on interpretation of the living history of the Hudson River. We offer diverse curriculum and opportunities which inspire skills in woodworking, boat building, and maritime craft. 

In addition to teaching classes, the Wooden Boat School also offers restoration services for wooden boats. 

Adult Classes

The Wooden Boat School offers courses in woodworking, boatbuilding, and hand crafts. We are constantly adding new classes and working to meet the interests of the community while maintaining a focus on the crafts and traditions of the Hudson Valley.
For questions about course offerings, please contact John Phelan, Wooden Boat School Coordinator, at jphelan@hrmm.org

COVID Update

We are beginning to resume classes at the Wooden Boat School!! Classes which were in session this spring and suspended will be the first to resume. Keep an eye on our webpage for updates and class schedules.
Click the button below to see the guidelines that will be followed for all classes.

General Course Information (Frequently Asked Questions)

This cheat sheet is a list of frequently asked questions regarding boat school classes: location, where to park, what to wear, etc.
For other questions please contact John Phelan, Wooden School Coordinator, at jphelan@hrmm.org

YouthBoat

YouthBoat is designed to empower youth, build character and foster teamwork through the traditional craft of wooden boatbuilding and on-the-water activities. At the Wooden Boat School, students from diverse backgrounds work alongside skilled shipwrights and craftspeople. Through the boatbuilding process, students put STEM skills to work as they follow building plans, use specialized tools and materials, and solve problems.

Restorations

The Wooden Boat School also repairs and restores non-profit and privately held wooden vessels of all ages. 
The restoration projects are guided by Shipwright and Lead Instructor, Wayne Ford and a team of experienced volunteers. 

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@hrmmwoodenboatschool