New program: Woodworking at the WFC - Build your own Pond Yacht
Picture this: your child, tools in hand, carefully shaping a piece of wood into a sleek, 24-inch sailboat. After two weeks of creativity and craftsmanship, they stand by the water’s edge, watching their creation glide across the surface—an unforgettable moment of pride and excitement. At The WaterFront Center, we’re thrilled to announce our newest program for 2025: Introduction to Woodworking - Build a Pond Yacht, where you make a 24-inch Wooden Sailboat & Test It on the Water! Tailored for students aged 10 to 15, this half-day, two-week adventure is the perfect blend of woodworking, learning, and maritime magic.
What’s the Program All About?
This hands-on program invites young builders to dive into the art of crafting a 24-inch Marconi-rigged pond yacht from scratch. Held at The WaterFront Center in Oyster Bay, the program runs as a half-day experience over two weeks, giving participants plenty of time to master their skills and create something truly special. Whether your child is a budding sailor, a curious craftsperson, or simply loves a good project, this program is designed to spark their imagination.
A Hands-On Learning Journey
Under the expert guidance of Scott Carro, an experienced shop teacher, and with support from our skilled volunteers, students will learn to use a variety of traditional hand tools, including:
Coping saws for precise cutting
Block planes to smooth and shape wood
Japanese hand saws for clean, accurate slices
Rasps, clamps, hand drills, and more
No power tools here—just the satisfying feel of working with your hands! Over the two weeks, participants will transform raw materials into a fully functional wooden sailboat, gaining skills in precision, patience, and problem-solving along the way. The grand finale? Testing their boats on the water at The WaterFront Center, where they’ll see their hard work set sail.
Crafting in a Historic Space
The program unfolds in “Building J,” a space rich with maritime heritage. Located next to The WaterFront Center, this is where the CHRISTEEN oyster sloop was refurbished and the IDA MAY oyster dredge was built. As students work, they’ll be surrounded by echoes of Oyster Bay’s seafaring past, connecting their hands-on project to a legacy of boatbuilding that’s shaped our community for generations.
Beyond the Boat: Skills and Memories
This isn’t just about building a sailboat—it’s about building confidence, creativity, and a deeper connection to the world around us. Participants will walk away with more than a wooden yacht; they’ll carry a sense of accomplishment, new friendships, and an appreciation for local history and the environment. It’s a summer experience that’s as rewarding as it is fun.
Scott Carro puts it perfectly: “There’s something magical about teaching kids to create with their hands. Watching them take pride in their work and then see their sailboat set off on the water—it’s an experience they’ll never forget.”
Ready to Join the Fun?
Spots for this unique program are limited, so don’t wait to secure your child’s place in this one-of-a-kind adventure! It’s the perfect opportunity for kids aged 10-15 to explore woodworking, embrace their creativity, and make waves—literally.
Sign up today and give your child a summer to remember. Visit The WaterFront Center’s Pond Yacht Woodworking page to register or learn more. Let’s set sail on this exciting journey together!
