Nick Smith has been building and repairing wooden boats since 1976. He builds predominantly wooden clinker, but can turn his hand to other traditional builds as well. He builds wooden motor, sailing and rowing dinghies from 8 foot to 28 foot from his workshop in Salcombe Devon.
Nick grew up in Salcombe, and served a 4 year apprenticeship at Edgar Cove Ltd. Most of his builds are West Country influenced including many replicas and historic vessels. He uses mostly the old methods of construction and fit out but does embrace the modern methods and materials that have proved themselves over the last 30 years. Nick will use polysulphide sealant/glue, epoxy resin and occasionally plywood as appropriate. He does however still use copper fastenings and brass and bronze screws, and a sensible use of good quality stainless steel.
His boats have a traditional look and feel, visually they are almost identical to that launch your father used to have when you were kids, or that sailing dinghy you hired as a family all those years ago, they smell the same too, varnish, leather, sea water and Stockholm tar.
If you would like to speak to Nick about your project, please don't hesitate to get in touch!
Nick Smith
Nick Smith has been a traditional wooden boat builder man and boy! He has a passion for wooden boats that he stayed with him his entire life. Here is a picture of him in action when he was only 18 years old.
OUR GALLERY
TESTIMONIALS
"Nick is a master of his trade and builds unique, very personal and beautiful boats."
Chris Burrell, owner Sauzon
"Nick’s craftsmanship and attention to detail is remarkable."
Robert Rusling, owner John Guy
Oracle
Oracle is a traditional wooden clinker boat built by Nick Smith in 2019. Oracle is 18 foot long, and fitted with the reliable 2YM 15 Yanmar engine.
Number 3
No 3, is the working title for this craft. Named accordingly as it is the 3rd 18 footer that Nick Smith has built in three years. Number 3 is brand new and offered for sale.
Bella
Bella, built by Nick Smith in 2011. Bella is a 20 foot wooden clinker boat powered by a Yanmar 15HP Engine.
Seen here on launch day at Hayling Island.