apalachicola bay oyster boats, hand built and plywood

[SaxonFSU]

just getting on for the first time in months. i have been on absence from boat building as i have been at school the whole summer. looking to start a project in the next few months and would like to build something in the 16-20 foot range. needs to be light as the motor i have to use is a 7.5 mercury for now. doesnt have to plane, just handle well.

i spend time in apalachicola, and cant help but notice the fine lines and simple construction of the oyster boats. unfortunately i am un able to find any information on how they are constructed. speaking with some locals, i have found that there is a strong boat building tradition in that area.

any information would be greatly appreciated.

im not looking to buy plans, as ive already built one freehand. im an engineering student and this makes a great challenge for me.

thanks again

Saxon

[J. Jumonville]

Saxon

I will be going to Apalachicola soon. There are many of these oyster boats on trailers near the place I will be staying so I will get photos and construction details. I will also visit the Maritime Museum and see if they have any info.

The boat in the photo below seems to be the most common type of oyster boat in the area.

Buddy Jumonville

[SaxonFSU]

yes that is exactly what i'm thinking about. i also travel to apalachicola frequently, but the museum has been closed in the past. i hear they now have an awesome wooden sailboat that they take out on tours. any information would be greatly appreciated.

i love the graceful lines and simple construction of the skiffs. i have even considered purchasing one and rebuilding it. might not be a bad option. but i want to build one slightly smaller, way lighter, and much more efficient, as i will not be hauling several hundred lbs of oysters.

[bluet]

Hi!

I live in Apalachicola and write about local culture and craftsmen.

If you want to know about oyster boats, contact George Watkins. He's the fire chief.

You might also check out the DP bench down by Ten Foot Hole.

Go humbly. If you are a boat builder, you may find yourself in very illustrious company.

To date, the Maritime Museum id probably of very limited help in this area.

bluet