Boatbuilding Classes

Build Your Own Shearwater Kayak

Location: International Yacht Restoration School - Newport, Rhode Island
Dates: Aug 9, 2010 - Aug 14, 2010

Instructor:
David Fawley

Sign-up with Chesapeake Light Craft:
Kit Cost: $999 (17' or 16') or $879 (14')
Tuition: $750
Helper Fee (optional, if you'd like to bring friend for the week): $375
Register online at clcboats.com

Other Considerations:
Class Policies
Newport Area Accomodations
Tools and Supplies
Boatbuilding Class FAQs
Shearwater Class Timelapse

Class Details:

In this 6-day class you will build your own Shearwater 14, 16, or 17 kayak from a Chesapeake Light Craft kit. Starting with pre-cut plywood parts, we will assemble the hull and deck of the kayak using copper wires and epoxy glue. We will then cut hatches, fiberglass the boat and install the cockpit coaming. During construction, we will discuss outfitting the boat with seats, footbraces, hatch fittings, and deck rigging. After the class, your boat will be ready to sand and paint or varnish.

One of the most popular kayaks CLC has ever offered, the Shearwater is an elegant, performance-oriented touring kayak. The "tumble home" sheer panel reduces windage and improves paddle clearance. The Shearwater features CLC's trademark cambered deck. The West Greenland style hard-chined hull has naturally easy and controllable handling for the skilled paddler and comfortable stability for the newer paddlers. The hull shape ensures good tracking even in windy and rough conditions.

The deck is cut from "Sapele" mahogany plywood for extra good looks and natural contrast with the Okoume hull and sheer panel. The clean lines of the Shearwater make it one of the "sexiest" kayaks on the market.

Chesapeake Light Craft has been manufacturing stitch-and-glue kayak kits since 1993. CLC’s many designs emphasize easy construction combined with good looks and uncompromised performance. By using the stitch-and-glue method, each student will build a kayak without the complication of frames, molds, or a strongback.