Boat School
by FV Staff

Traditionally built wood 16' Whitehall built by first year students at the Boat School. Projects at the scholl range from this through fiberglass, finishing, powering and electronics. Fishermen’s Voice photo

Portland: The Boat School had one of the school’s freshman year building projects on display at the Boat Builders Show in Portland in March. The 15' Whitehall was built with local woods by regional freshman year students. The traditionally constructed plank on frame, cedar boards bent over oak frames, has oak rails and two rowing stations. The name comes from Whitehall St. near the wharfs of New York City, where in the 1800’s they were used to take passengers out to large ships at anchor. These water taxis were designed for rowing.

The project was the work of five students over nine months. The first year at the school is a comprehensive course, which prepares students for work in boat yards. Students who complete the course are certified boat building technicians. Completion of a full associates program prepares graduates for opening their own shop. Training includes all aspects of building from fiberglass to wood, to wiring and plumbing. The schools program is broad based and geared to getting graduates boatyard employment.

Loans, financial aid and grants are available. Some grants of $5,000 are available for Maine students who intend to work in Maine. The $8,000 tuition includes the complete set of tools needed to go to work. The Boat School is an affiliate of Husson College in Bangor. Husson College is a “100% supporter of the program,” said the schools shop director.

The Boat School,
16 Deep Cove Road, Eastport, ME 04631
boatschool@husson.edu www.husson.edu/theboatschool