Boat building

During the winter months, SBCSA introduces members to the art of boatbuilding. No prior boatbuilding knowledge is required. Basic woodworking skills are helpful, but not necessary.

Begin your Boat Building Education

Additional skills taught:

  • reading basic boat plans

  • proper use of hand and power shop tools

  • epoxy bonding and filleting

  • sheathing with fiberglass

  • fitting planks and structural membranes

  • creating fair surfaces (a surface without bumps or hollows)

  • proper application and use of West System® epoxy and fiberglass

  • paint and varnish techniques to get the perfect paint/varnish job.

Learn a variety of construction methods including:

  • stitch and glue,

  • strip planking, and

  • glued lapstrake.

Building techniques taught include:

  • lofting (creating curved lines),

  • layout, and

  • mold set-up.

Register for Boat Building

Boat building classes

  • Boatbuilding classes are open to adult members of the SBCSA. You must be at least 18 years of age to participate in this class

  • Classes begin Monday, January 5, 2026. Classes are held on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:00 – 9:00 pm.

    Classes are held from middle to late April.

  • The Gougeon Boat Shop at 100 Patterson Ave, Bay City, MI 48706.

See All

Registration

Registration for the Boat Building Class is completed online. Payment of $100 (for materials) credit card will be required to submit your application using this online form.

You must be an SBCSA member to join this class. Please see the membership page for more information if you are not already a member.

For more information, please email info@sbcsa.org or call 989-778-0139.

Register for boat building