The Boat Page

Hosted by Mother Earth News

If you've ever daydreamed about a boat of your own — from a canoe to a houseboat — Mother Earth News has written articles that can help make that dream a reality. Below are a selection of boat-building articles from our Archive, as well as more information about the boat plans for sale at Mother Earth Shopping.

From October/November 2005

Life on the Water
John and Ellen Landrum share their experience of living self-sufficiently on a sailboat.

Build this Boat!
This basic boat plan is simple and easy to construct for those with woodworking experience.

Stories from the Archive

Craft A Coracle April/May 2003
How to build a seaworthy coracle — a large, basket-like, woven boat.

Float Your Boat June/July 2001
Imagine a boat that is easy to build, transport and store. Follow these easy instructions to make a take-apart skiff for rowing, fishing, or just plain relaxing.

Build a 4-Power Still-Water Canoe August/September 1997
This simple wooden boat can be built in a day.

Power Options for Puddleduck August/September 1997
Part Two of the article above.

The Return of the Brandy Bar May/June 1989
Houseboat living is an economical, pleasant alternative to the terrestrial treadmill. Here's how to build a life-sustaining ship, including diagrams and instructions.

The Happy Clam March/April 1989
This lightweight boat doubles as cartop storage and suits the first-time boat builder.

The Making of a Cedar Dugout Canoe January/February 1984
Craft your canoe-carving skills, includes diagrams and photos.

A Recumbent Pedal Boat  July/August 1983
Build this pedal-powered watercraft, includes materials and tools list, and diagrams.