Carpenter’s Boat Shop

Founded in 1979, the Carpenter's Boat Shop is an apprenticeship school and community for all people. Whether apprentices are between college and life careers, jobs and new directions, alcoholism and sobriety, or simply transitioning into retirement, The Boat Shop provides a safe harbor before setting sail on a new course in life.

While considering goals and directions, apprentices at The Carpenter's Boat Shop live in a community and learn boatbuilding, carpentry, furniture making, sailing, seamanship, and perform community service. They also explore personal faith through reading, study, and discussion.

It is our hope that apprentices will gain a deeper knowledge of themselves, a clearer vision for their life's goals, and a stronger commitment in their service to others.

Each year The Carpenter's Boat Shop has 10 apprentice positions. The apprentices come from all ages, places, and situations. They live in two different farmhouse facilities, and participate in community decisions.

Apprentices share in all aspects of life at The Boat Shop from boatbuilding, meal preparation, planting and harvesting the garden, caring for animals, maintaining shop vehicles, and extending hospitality to guests who visit.

The aim of The Carpenter's Boat Shop community is not only to build wooden boats, but to prepare people to live lives of care, concern, and courage as they take the next steps on life's journey.