Welcome to the WoodenBoat School!
This year marks our 30th anniversary of offering courses designed around the arts of boatbuilding, woodworking, seamanship, and related crafts, and we take great pride in reaching this exciting milestone. It comes as a result of a lot of hard work and dedication from administration, staff, and faculty over the years, along with the good fortune of having hundreds of students and alumni from around the globe who arrive in Brooklin to participate in our program each and every season.
WoodenBoat School students learn by doing, each at their own pace, in a stimulating, inspiring environment, where people enjoy working, learning new skills, ideas, and the value of tradition, and, quite often, exceeding their own expectations. For many students, it’s an energizing, creative breath of fresh air; a welcome change from their regular routine. For some, it’s a unique opportunity to work alongside renowned and gifted instructors. For others, it’s a peaceful learning vacation. For just about everyone, it is a worthwhile experience that is truly cherished and, sometimes, life-changing.
I could write more about the WoodenBoat School experience; about our beautiful coastal setting; about our friendly, knowledgeable instructors; about the unique camaraderie that develops each week, about our great food, comfortable accommodations, and caring staff; but to feel the vitality and passion fully, you really have to be here. So I invite you to come and find out for yourself. As you browse through our catalog, I’m quite certain you’ll find that there’s something for everyone who shares an interest in boats, boating, and lots more. Questions? Give us a call, and we’ll be glad to answer any and all of them. Better yet, make a reservation and be a part of the wooden boat community.
We look forward to hearing from you,
Rich Hilsinger
Director
WoodenBoat School allows one to pursue a lifetime dream and allows students the freedom of a child to pursue that dream by providing such a wonderful program. Everything is taken care of – meals, housing, anything one could possibly need – and it makes the week carefree but challenging as we stretch our minds and bodies. Thank you!. ![]()


