shipwrights

Shipwrights are skilled craftsmen who build and repair ships and boats, working in shipyards or on repair docks. Their work covers hull construction, fitting frames, planking, fastening, caulking, launching, and maintenance. They may supervise crews and coordinate with naval architects and engineers.

Historically, shipwrights were central in wooden sailing ships, dating to ancient and medieval fleets. In Europe they formed guilds and masterships; apprentices trained for many years. With the transition to iron, steel, and later fiberglass and composites, the trade evolved but retained the core handcraft ethos. In non-European traditions, shipwrights also held central roles in ship design and construction.

Today, shipwrights may work as traditional wooden boat builders or as welders and fitters in shipyards that build or repair steel or fiberglass vessels. Some specialize in hull construction, carriage and alignment, caulking, or wood restoration; others focus on shipyard supervision, repairs, or small craft.

Typical process includes lofting to draw the hull form full scale, fabricating frames or ribs, assembling the keel, erecting frames, planking or plating, caulking seams, applying hull sheathing, and launching. For repairs, tasks include removing damaged sections, patching planks or plates, and re-caulking.

Tools range from traditional hand tools (adzes, planes, saws, chisels, gimlets) to modern power tools and CNC equipment. Training is via apprenticeships, vocational programs, or formal degrees in some regions. Certification may be available for shipyard trades.