Boatbuilding Afterschool Club

The Buzzards Bay Coalition’s Boatbuilding Afterschool Club offers a rare blend of hands-on craftsmanship and aquatic adventure for youth ages 11 to 15. Set in southeastern Massachusetts near Wareham, this eight-week program immerses young participants in the full arc of building their own Wickets Skiffs rowboat. From measuring and shaping wood to assembling the hull, students engage deeply with practical engineering and teamwork skills while connecting to the coastal environment.

This program’s location, Buzzards Bay, is a dynamic estuary on the Atlantic coast known for its intricate networks of tidal creeks, salt marshes, and protected coves. Its natural setting provides a living classroom where rowing the boats becomes more than just a final celebratory act—it’s an introduction to local marine habitats and stewardship. Buzzards Bay Coalition’s dedication to protecting the bay’s water quality and ecosystems adds an important layer of environmental awareness to the experience.

Unlike typical afterschool activities, this club uniquely pairs traditional boatbuilding knowledge with modern educational objectives focused on collaboration and confidence-building. The Wickets Skiff itself is a regional design, compact and sturdy, ideal for young rowers learning balance and navigation. Sessions meet twice weekly, pairing detailed hands-on instruction with plenty of opportunity to test and refine skills on the water.

The Coalition’s program stands out in the outdoor recreation scene by fostering a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts and makers who appreciate the intersection of craftsmanship and nature. Families seeking a meaningful and active way for kids to engage with coastal Massachusetts will find the Boatbuilding Afterschool Club a rewarding gateway to the region’s maritime heritage and natural beauty.