The Boatshop

09/07/2026

Not all boat designs stand the test of time. That can't be said of NH's own MerryMac, which beautifully balances form and function. Easy to sail by beginners yet sporting enough to retain the affection of the most accomplished sailors, MerryMac sailboats are comfortable, safe, and truly timeless.

Designed and built by lifetime Dover resident and boatbuilder, Edward "Ned" McIntosh between 1953 and the mid 1960's, the original fleet of approximately 200 boats spawned the founding of the Great Bay Yacht. In 2016, Piper Boatworks began producing new numbered MerryMac's using Ned's patterns and molds, giving the next generation of MerryMac enthusiasts the opportunity to discover the joys of sailing.

So it only seems fitting that we have the opportunity to share the news that two MerryMacs—one from each end of this boat's storied history—are currently available for sale. Both in very good, ready to sail condition.

MerryMac #6(!) located in Clearwater, PA: $5,000
MerryMac #254 located in Bethany, CT: $11,300

Full listings and more information about the MerryMac can be found at https://www.piperboatworks.com/used-merrymacs-for-sale.html

08/31/2026

The Captains and Carpenters campers lived up to the name of their week-long stint in The Boatshop. The week began with glued up oar blanks and 12 first time rowers. It ended with them very capably rowing the oars they made themselves using hand tools. What an impressive sight this was!

08/20/2026

This week's Captains & Carpenters campers learning to row the gundalow on the way back from a visit to the restored Wood Island Life Saving Station. The gundalow sweeps are larger versions of the oars the kids are crafting in our pop-up boatshop this week and this was a cool way to put their project into the larger maritime context. # # # #

08/13/2026

This July, Boatshop campers launched 48 new model boats, which join a fleet that now numbers 300!

07/30/2026

We never get tired of the smiles of pride and joy that spread across the kids' faces when they get the hang of using the tools.

07/28/2026

The pop-up Boatshop in the Wentworth-Gardner warehouse is buzzing again this week with a new crew of campers.

We often say we're not really building boats, we're building people. Why? Because learning to use hand tools to transform raw materials into something of your own creation builds confidence, cultivates focus, and fosters attention to detail.

Wentworth-Gardner Historic House
Gundalow Company

07/16/2026

From raw materials to all lined up and ready for launch in just four (half) days! This week's campers were the first to get to experience our new pop-up boatshop in the Wentworth-Gardner's warehouse overlooking the Piscataqua River. And wow, did these kids live up to the history and location.

Thanks to our partners Gundalow Company and The Wentworth-Gardner House, and all The Boatshop volunteers for making the dream of this new space and our hands-on summer camps a reality.

07/13/2026