Build Your Own Plank Constructed Pond Yacht
A Vintage Marblehead-class pond yacht designed for radio control.
- Dates
- August 25 – August 31
- Location
- Brooklin, Maine
- Tuition
- $925
- Materials
- See Description
- Instructor
- Bruce Richter
- Experience Level
- Beginner
- Activity Level
- Low
This is a six-day course ending Saturday
Other Sessions: September 1-7
Pond Yacht I: $385 (Includes CNC cut molds, strongback, keelson, planking, fin, and rudder.)
Pond Yacht II: $169 (Includes materials to finish the boat other than sails, fittings and electronics.)
Pond Yacht III: $35 (Shop supplies to help you continue your project.)
In this course each student will begin the construction of his/her own pond sailboat using the plank on frame process. This practice is similar to those used in building full-sized boats and allows for a flowing hull form that is beautiful on display and swift on the water.
The course boat NORUMBEGA was designed by former instructor Thom McLaughlin. The class of this boat is known as Vintage Marblehead (VM) and is still actively sailed today under the guidance of the U.S. Vintage Model Yacht Group. The Marblehead class of small boat originated in 1932 using minimal design requirements of 50″ LOA and 800 square inches of sail. When fully rigged the boat is over 7′ tall, which makes it quite impressive from shore. The boat can be easily dismantled for transport.
Construction of this pond yacht will pleasantly challenge and inform the builder. While group and one-on-one instruction will take place daily, students will also make decisions based on blueprints and developing an eye for form. During this week, the boat will be planked, faired, and the fin and rudder will be fabricated. Bruce will also discuss the steps that follow to complete the boat—decking, rigging, electronic installation, and painting.
Students who have started construction of their VM model in previous years at WoodenBoat School are also welcome to participate in this course to finish their boat. This week will be an excellent opportunity for further guidance. It will also provide inspiration to those individuals just beginning their boat and to view firsthand the final steps in construction.
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Who is this course best suited for?
This course is appropriate for students with some knowledge and experience. Basic knowledge and use of hand tools is required for most shop courses.
This course involves a low level of activity throughout the week including: occasional standing and working, seating is usually available, working on your own project at your own pace is common.
“Bruce Richter was an excellent instructor. He taught the pond yacht course in a knowledgeable, caring, and professional manner.”
T.S., Wilbraham, Massachusetts
“Bruce Richter taught a great course. I liked that he checked our work each evening and made note of our mistakes to correct the next day. He pulled together regular meetings to discuss theory. I especially enjoyed the pond yacht history lesson! Great teaching skills. Great personality and a sense of humor.”
J.J., Phoenix, Maryland
Register For This Course
Courses fill quickly, so don't delay if this is a course you want to take.
