In the picturesque maritime community of Gig Harbor, Washington, a distinctive boat builder has quietly cultivated a reputation for crafting elegant and enduring small vessels. Since its founding in 1986, Gig Harbor Boat Works, under the vision of David Robertson, has become a standard-bearer for traditional rowboats and sailing dinghies, seamlessly blending classic designs with modern construction techniques.
The Origin Story
The story of Gig Harbor Boat Works begins with its founder, David Robertson, whose passion for building boats ignited at a remarkably young age. Robertson built his first boat at just 12 years old, demonstrating an innate mechanical aptitude that would shape his future endeavors. This lifelong love of crafting led him to pursue formal knowledge, eventually gaining insights from the Westlawn School of Yacht Design.
In 1986, Robertson officially established Gig Harbor Boat Works. His initial motivation was to maintain the joy of boat building as a hobby, deliberately keeping the business small to ensure the work remained enjoyable. One of the company's early achievements was the construction of a 17-foot sailboat. However, cruising the waters of Puget Sound quickly highlighted the practical need for a smaller, versatile dinghy for shore excursions, a realization that would significantly influence the company's future direction. From these humble beginnings, Gig Harbor Boat Works set out to build lightweight yet rugged small boats, ranging from 8 to 17 feet, focusing on simplicity, elegance, and ease of use.
History and Evolution
From its inception, Gig Harbor Boat Works has balanced a deep respect for heritage designs with an embrace of contemporary advancements. Early on, the company made a pivotal transition to modern fiberglass composites for construction, allowing their boats to be durable while retaining the aesthetic and functionality of classic wooden craft. This approach allowed them to achieve national recognition within a few years of founding, shipping their boats across the country.
While David Robertson initially chose to keep the business small, the growing popularity and demand for his meticulously crafted boats led to significant expansion. In a notable milestone, Gig Harbor Boat Works recently unveiled a new 12,500-square-foot, state-of-the-art factory in Gig Harbor, accommodating their diverse range of models and increasing production capabilities. This expansion signifies the company's evolution from a regional boat shop to a nationally recognized builder in the small craft industry. The company has also expanded its reach through a sister company, Duckworks Boat Builders Supply.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Gig Harbor Boat Works has carved out a unique and esteemed reputation in the marine world as a builder of traditional rowboats and sailing dinghies. They are considered "dinghy titans" within their niche, standing among a handful of notable builders in the small craft industry. The company is renowned for its commitment to versatility, simplicity, and efficiency in all its designs. Their boats are engineered to be easily rowed, towed, and stowed, embodying a multi-functional approach to small vessel ownership.
A core tenet of their design philosophy involves refining classic dinghy designs, enhancing them with modern materials and construction methods without sacrificing their timeless appeal. Each boat is hand-built using advanced fiberglass composites, ensuring both durability and a lightweight profile. David Robertson himself, drawing on his extensive experience and design education, has been the principal naval architect behind the brand's distinct aesthetic and functional excellence. The boats often feature powder-coated aircraft aluminum masts and well-designed rowing systems with custom oar designs for improved flex.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Gig Harbor Boat Works produces a focused line of ten different boat models, ranging from 8 to 17 feet in length. While specific models aren't typically highlighted as individual "icons" in the way larger yachts might be, the collective range of their traditional rowboats and sailing dinghies represents a significant impact on the small craft segment. Their 12-foot and 14-foot models, for example, demonstrate their attention to detail, featuring innovative mast constructions.
The company's legacy is built on the consistent production of high-quality, made-to-order boats that serve as reliable tenders, capable rowboats, and enjoyable sailing dinghies. Their emphasis on custom building means each boat is tailored to the owner's specifications, ensuring a unique and personalized craft. While Gig Harbor Boat Works has not engaged in high-profile projects like America's Cup challengers or custom superyachts, their influence is profound within the small boat community, providing meticulously crafted vessels that celebrate the pure joy of being on the water.
The Builder Today
Today, Gig Harbor Boat Works continues to operate from its namesake location in Gig Harbor, Washington. The company remains dedicated to hand-building each boat to order, ensuring premium quality and personalized attention for every customer. The recent expansion into a new, larger facility underscores their commitment to meeting growing demand while maintaining their high standards of craftsmanship.
The ownership structure, deeply rooted in David Robertson's founding vision, emphasizes continuity and a direct connection to the company's heritage. The modern boats appeal to individuals and families seeking robust, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing small craft that seamlessly blend traditional charm with contemporary performance. The ownership experience is marked by the close interaction with the builders and a strong sense of camaraderie within the small craft community, fostered by the company's commitment to its customers. Gig Harbor Boat Works continues to be a beacon for those who appreciate the enduring appeal and practicality of expertly crafted traditional small boats.
