We’re well overdue for an update on our St Ayles Skiff build. The more perceptive observers will have noted that the hull of our skiff has been being built upside-down, which means that – at some point – it would need to be turned over. With the exterior of the hull now complete, we celebrated this milestone on the 18th March. We were joined by a number of friends and helpers from Burntisland Sailing Club and a number of local rowing clubs and, after releasing the boat from its build frame, succeeded in turning it over without damage. Whilst these boats are not especially heavy – a little over 150kg when complete – they are rather awkward to manoeuvre in the confined space of a workshop!
There is still much to do, of course, but a general tidy-up of the glue joints is nearing completion. Next, we’ll look to begin building the gunwales – a structural component that edges the uppermost planks – and the seats (also known as thwarts or ‘tafts’). Oar construction has already begun, thanks to the efforts of Frank from North Queensferry Rowing Club. And we continue to be grateful to Jim Day, a local boatbuilder whose advice and assistance continues to guide our build.
Although we continue to draw on all the experience that is available to us, this is principally an amateur undertaking and is open to everyone. As our St Ayles Skiff build continues to look increasingly boat-like, we hope to attract some new members so whether your interest is in boatbuilding, rowing, or even the social aspects of membership, please do get in touch! You can contact us here, or find out more about the sport of costal rowing at https://scottishcoastalrowing.org/
Article written by Finlay Robertson
