Uniting tradition, skill, and innovation in wooden boatbuilding.

The Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association (WBTA) is a peer-reviewed network of expert craftspeople and allied professionals dedicated to building, restoring, and maintaining wooden boats. Whether you’re commissioning a new build, planning a restoration, or simply exploring the beauty and sustainability of wooden craft, you’ll find the right people here.

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Find a WBTA specialist

Planning a new build, seeking expert repairs, or sourcing materials? WBTA connects you with trusted craftspeople across the UK. Our peer-reviewed members include boatbuilders, designers, timber suppliers, and allied trades – each dedicated to skill, integrity, and the art of wooden boat craftsmanship. Use our search tool to find the right specialist for your project, whether by region or area of expertise.

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Why wood?

Natural. Proven. Future-Ready.

Wooden boats offer lasting beauty, rich character, and a direct link to skilled craftsmanship. With modern coatings and techniques, maintenance is significantly easier – making wood a sustainable, low-impact, and practical choice. Whether you’re restoring a classic or commissioning something new, it remains a smart, future-facing material –valued for both performance and soul.

Owning a wooden boat is a source of genuine pride. Each build is unique—crafted with care, character, and attention to detail. It’s not just a vessel, but a reflection of your values, story, and connection to the craft.
Working with a skilled boatbuilder is a rewarding and personal journey. From first sketches to final launch, you'll be involved at every step – shaping a boat that reflects your needs and ideas through a trusted, collaborative process.
Wood offers unmatched warmth, beauty, and workability. With the right species and treatment, it’s strong, versatile, and proven over centuries. A wooden boat stands out – not just in appearance, but in substance.
Thanks to today’s advanced coatings and techniques, wooden boats are more durable and easier to maintain than ever. Modern finishes protect against the elements while showcasing the natural beauty of the timber beneath.
Wood is a renewable, low-impact material – making it a smart environmental choice. When paired with traditional skills and thoughtful design, it supports a future of sustainable, long-lasting boatbuilding.

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Gain full access to shared knowledge, industry visibility, and collective influence when you become a WBTA member.

Member Benefits

Classes of membership

Full Membership

For established professionals in wooden boatbuilding or restoration with proven experience, premises, equipment, and high standards of work.

Associate Membership

For tradespeople, employees, or recent graduates working toward full practice, who demonstrate acceptable skill and commitment.

Affiliate Membership

For suppliers, service providers, and educators who support the trade but are not directly engaged in boatbuilding.

Introductory Membership

For students, graduates, or start-ups new to the industry who intend to enter the trade.

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Meet our Members who cover the whole of the UK.

Collectively, they cover a wide range of diverse skills and techniques - both in new build and restoration, as well as allied trades so crucial to supporting our high standards.

Boatbuilders

Allied Trades