New for 2025

Introduction to Woodworking - Build a Pond Yacht

Make a 24-inch Wooden Sailboat & Test It on the Water!

Learn from an Experienced Shop Teacher

Learn how to make a 24-inch model sailboat out of wood using hand tools. For students aged 10 to 15, this half-day, 2-week program takes place in “Building J” next to The WaterFront Center. This is where the historic CHRISTEEN oyster sloop was refurbished, and the IDA MAY oyster dredge was built.

An experienced shop teacher, Scott Carro, guides the students with the help of qualified volunteers who work on woodworking projects. Learn how to use coping saws, block planes, spoke shaves, hand drills, Japanese hand saws, rasps, clamps, and many other tools of the trade. When completed, test your Marconi-rigged pond yacht at The WaterFront Center.

Program Overview

  • What: A hands-on, 2-week, half-day program where students aged 10+ build a 24-inch wooden model sailboat using hand tools.

  • Where: Building J, next to The WaterFront Center—home of the historic CHRISTEEN oyster sloop and IDA MAY oyster dredge.

  • When: July 7-18, 2025 | Half-day sessions 9 AM - 12 PM and 1 PM - 4 PM

  • Who: Ages 10-15, or grades 5-8, Led by an experienced shop teacher and qualified volunteers.

  • Sailing Option: Combine our 2-week Introduction to Woodworking program with half-day sailing sessions for a complete summer of building and sailing.

  • Cost: $700 for 2 weeks, all materials included

    • No prior experience needed—just bring your curiosity!

    • Dress for a workshop: closed-toe shoes, comfy clothes.

What Kids Will Learn:

  • Hand Tool Mastery:

    Use coping saws, block planes, spoke shaves, hand drills, Japanese hand saws, rasps, clamps, and more to shape your boat.

  • Sailboat Structure:

    Understand hull shapes, balance, and how boats move through water. Rig your sailboat with a classic Marconi sail setup for smooth sailing.

  • Woodworking Skills:

    Cut, sand, and assemble a 24-inch wooden sailboat.

  • Maritime Heritage:

    Build your own Pond Yacht in building J where the Christeen and Ida May was built.

A Day in the Workshop

  • 9:00 AM / 1:00 PM: Start with a quick demo—learn a new tool or technique.

  • 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM / 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM: Build your pond yacht—cut wood, shape the hull, or rig the sails with help from pros.

  • 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM / 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Wrap up—review progress, plan next steps, and get ready to sail on the final day!

  • Final Day: Test your finished pond yacht on the water next to The WaterFront Center!

  • Half-Day Sailing Program (Optional) (AM or PM): Kids hit the water for 3 hours, learning knots, steering, and sailing small boats with expert instructors.

Why Our Program Stands Out

  • Historic Building J: Work where the Christeen (America’s oldest oyster sloop) was restored and the Ida May (oyster dredge) was built—a living link to Oyster Bay’s boatbuilding legacy.

  • Hands-On Fun: Create a real, working sailboat with your own hands—no power tools, just skill and creativity.

  • Expert Guidance: Learn from an experienced shop teacher and volunteers who make building safe and fun.

  • Small Groups: Limited spots for personalized attention—every kid gets to shine.

  • Sail Your Creation: Launch your 24-inch pond yacht and see it glide on the water!

  • Youth Sailing Programs: Build confidence, teamwork, and advanced sailing skills.

    Spots are limited—don’t miss out on this creative summer adventure!

Youth Summer Sailing Programs

Intro to Woodworking Program and Half-Day Sailing equals a Full Summer Experience for Kids 10 - 15 years old.

Discover Youth Summer Sailing Programs

Join half-day sailing adventures for ages like Opti Beginner (no experience needed), Opti Intermediate (ages 8-13), or Adventure sailing (ages 14-18) (no experience needed) to build skills and confidence on the water!

The WaterFront Center offers full 2-week youth summer sailing programs for ages 5-18. From Lil Puffs for little sailors to C420 and Adventurer sailing for all others, these camps teach sailing fundamentals, teamwork, and water safety. Held on Oyster Bay’s waterfront, kids sail small boats under expert guidance, making summer unforgettable.

Pair with our Intro to Woodworking- Build a Pond Yacht program for a complete nautical experience!