Uniting tradition, skill, and innovation in wooden boatbuilding.

The Wooden Boat 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 wooden boat 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 easier than ever – 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.