A custom boatbuilder may use wood, metal and fiberglass to build a boat
from blueprints. Each boat may be unique, since it is built for a specific
customer. Custom boatbuilders may also restore antique boats or design boats
themselves.
To build vessels that are seaworthy, a custom boatbuilder must work with
raw materials -- wood and metals or varnish and paint. Boatbuilders create
all types of boats, including skiffs, yachts, sailboats, schooners and many
others.
For a person who loves to work with their hands, this is an excellent career
choice. Days can be spent constructing boats and sails that will last for
many years.
However, there are other duties that a custom boatbuilder must do. Selling
and designing boats, finding customers, bookkeeping and ordering supplies
are all in a day's work.
Custom boatbuilders can either work for a company that produces seaworthy
vessels or be self-employed.
Since many boatbuilders work alone, they often have to find creative ways
to manage tasks without the help of other people. "The hardest part of working
alone is moving the big fiberglass pieces around," says Mervyn Hammatt. "I
have to invent ingenious ways to get a completed deck on top of a completed
hull."