John Gardner Small Craft Workshop at Mystic Seaport — June 6–7
Nearly 100 small boats will gather along the Mystic River in Connecticut for the John Gardner Small Craft Workshop at Mystic Seaport on June 6–7. This two-day gathering brings together boat builders, paddlers, rowers and traditional boat enthusiasts to share boats, stories and skills in a relaxed, hands-on environment. The event spotlights a wide range of small craft—from classic peapods and whitehalls to sharpie skiffs, dories and wood-and-canvas canoes—offering visitors an authentic look at small-boat design and seamanship.
Participants bring an impressive variety of vessels: peapods, whitehalls, sharpie skiffs, wood-and-canvas canoes, kayaks, performance rowing craft, dories, dinghies and tenders. These boats are not just on display; owners and builders are encouraged to let others try them, compare designs, and discuss construction methods, rigging choices and handling characteristics. Whether you are a seasoned sailor, a weekend paddler or simply curious about traditional small craft, the workshop provides a welcoming setting to learn and connect.
What to Expect Over the Weekend
The atmosphere at the workshop is informal and participatory. Much of the value comes from face-to-face exchanges: talking with builders about choices in materials, watching demonstrations of traditional and modern techniques, swapping maintenance tips, and comparing how different hull shapes and rigs perform on the water. Attendees often exchange advice on topics like hull care, canvas repairs, rowing technique and safety equipment. Informal demos and conversations give visitors a chance to deepen their understanding of small craft without the pressure of a formal classroom.
Featured Activities
- Boat sharing and hands-on trials of a wide variety of small craft.
- Informal demonstrations and conversations about construction, maintenance and handling.
- Opportunities to meet designers, builders and experienced boaters who are passionate about traditional craft.
- A communal group row down the Mystic River early on Sunday morning, bringing participants together for a shared on-water experience.
The weekend culminates with a shared row down the Mystic River on Sunday morning. This group outing is a highlight for many participants, offering a chance to see the fleet in motion and to enjoy the river scenery alongside fellow small-boat enthusiasts.
Registration and Admission
Individuals interested in fully participating in the scheduled activities can register online. Registration covers participation in the workshop and includes museum admission for both Saturday and Sunday, giving attendees access to Mystic Seaport’s exhibits in addition to the on-water programming. To register, visit the Mystic Seaport small craft workshop registration page: www.mysticseaport.org/smallcraftworkshop (enter this address into your browser to find the registration form).
Who Should Attend
The workshop is ideal for anyone with an interest in traditional small boats—builders, restorers, recreational paddlers, coastal rowers and people who appreciate maritime craftsmanship. It also suits newcomers who want to learn about different types of small craft and get hands-on experience before committing to a purchase. The event fosters a sense of community and shared learning, making it a productive and enjoyable weekend for people at many skill levels.
Whether your interest is in the fine details of wood-and-canvas construction, the performance of modern rowing shells, or simply spending time on the water with like-minded people, the John Gardner Small Craft Workshop at Mystic Seaport offers an inviting, informative weekend focused on the timeless appeal of small boats.