Family Boatbuilding Class

Join us for a family boat building workshop!
Sign up with your team to find out what it takes to build your very own boat - in two days no less! Under the guidance of volunteers and staff, you will build The Elegant Punt, a simple yet sturdy 8-foot row boat, which will be yours to take home at the end. Starting Saturday morning, a dedicated team can finish their boat by Sunday afternoon and launch it for a brief row around the waterway to admire their handiwork.
This two-day class is specially designed for first-time boat builders! No experience is required. You will learn essential skills such as measuring, steam-bending wood, clamping, and laminating, as well as get practice using tools such as hand saws, drills, and routers.
Families are welcome - Each team can consist of two to five people, at least two of whom must be adults. Children 12 and up are welcome!
WHERE: Foss Waterway Seaport, 705 Dock Street, Tacoma WA
WHEN: Saturday & Sunday, August 29 & 30, 2026
TICKETS: Spaces are limited, participants MUST sign up in advance (walk-ups will not be permitted).
www.fosswaterwayseaport.org/boat-shop-foss-waterway-seaport
COST: We want every family to have the opportunity to participate, regardless of financial resources. We won’t ask for financial verification, but if you’re able, choosing a higher tier helps another family take part in this experience.
Per family/team (one boat per team):
$300 – Community supported
$600 – Standard
$900 – Community sponsor
Please contact our Boat Shop Manager with any questions:
cori.shooter@fosswaterwayseaport.org