Inspired by Scottish Coal Miners who raced their own boats on high days and holidays, the St Ayles Skiff was designed to be built and rowed by people from the local community.
Cinque Ports Rowing CIC is working to engage people across the region in building skiffs for themselves and their communities.
Aside from learning about the boats themselves, Community Boat Building promotes community cohesion, provides a calm, welcoming environment and a novel way to tackle isolation and loneliness.
Working in small, tutor-led groups, participants of all ages and abilities are supported through the whole process of building a 22ft St Ayles Skiff – all the way from first planks to final fit-out and paint job.
The calm, supportive environment accommodates all-comers, regardless of their ability and experience.
The build duration is between 18 and 26 weeks depending upon resources and volunteer numbers.
A Community Boat Build in your town?
Cinque Ports Rowing CIC is seeking to partner with Councils, Community Organisations, Charitable Trusts and other interested groups to establish Community Boat Build projects across Kent and the wider South East region.
From project planning and support, through to skilled tuition, we can help you get your project off the drawing board and bring the vision to life. Get in touch now and let’s start talking!
hello@cinqueportsrowing.org