Shell Boats are built using unique and very effective methods which are the result of years of research and development. Roots go back to the early American skiffs, Dutch vlets and the Norwegian holmsbupram of centuries ago. The synthesis of time tested, simple construction methods with modern materials - epoxy, stainless steel fastenings, and marine plywood - produces a handsome craft which is st
rong and durable as well as economical to build and maintain. Shell Boats are designed by first building a prototype - by eye, as the Norwegians have built the holmsbupram for centuries. No detailed plans, offsets or molds are used. The prototype is meticulously hand crafted and temporarily assembled without glue. If anything doesn't look right it is taken apart and redone. The hull is built right-side up, allowing the builder (and designer) to see exactly what is going on. When it is completed, the boat is disassembled and patterns are made of all the pieces. Our kits and finished boats are cut using these patterns. Whether you choose to purchase a kit and build your own boat, or have us do it, the benefits are great: light weight, great strength and extreme durability - all at an amazingly low cost.
