The Boatbuilding Program offers two course options: the Small Boats Course and the Cruising Boats Course. A student may select either course to complete the Boatbuilding Program.

Both courses in the Boatbuilding Program produce graduates who understand the interrelationship and interdependency of the various structural elements of a boat as well as the importance of a systematic approach to the boatbuilding process. Students learn to utilize a variety of construction methods, executing them with a high level of craftsmanship, while making efficient use of time and materials.

The schedules for completion of the different boat models set the tempo of the program. This strict schedule simulates the work atmosphere a builder will encounter in a production environment. Boatbuilding students work full-time on the boats during the day, and receive homework in the form of reading assignments and graded individual woodworking projects that include a variety of joinery exercises.

The Small Boats Course is based on a traditional form of boatbuilding using modern lapstrake and traditional carvel planking as the methods of construction. The Cruising Boats Course concentrates on modern cold-molding and vacuum-bagging as the primary method of construction. Both courses emphasize clean, elegant construction in keeping with high standards. Graduates of the Small Boats and Cruising Boats courses have employment opportunities working with all sizes of boats, regardless of their focus of study. A student may select either course consistent with employment or personal goals.

The maximum size of the program is 27 students. A student who successfully meets the criteria for graduation from the program is awarded a Diploma in Boatbuilding from The Landing School.

Watch a video of Landing School students turn over the Cruising Boats Course hulls before winter break in 2007.