Chesapeake Light Craft 16 Kayak Build Course - October 20 - 31

from $450.00

Spend your evenings crafting your very own custom recreation kayak — the classic Chesapeake Light Craft 16 — in this hands-on boatbuilding course at Spaulding!

“More than 7,000 Chesapeake-series kits have been shipped since 1996. An enduring favorite among paddlers, the award-winning Chesapeakes are the gold standard for build-it-yourself sea kayaks. They are easy to build but handsome and fast.”
— Chesapeake Light Craft

Under the guidance of Spaulding instructor Tim Reed, you’ll be walked through each stage of construction — from scarfing joints, mixing epoxy, and assembling the hull — with expert tips and hands-on instruction every step of the way.

This course is ideal for first-time builders looking to learn the fundamentals of woodworking, fiberglassing, and boat construction in a relaxed and supportive setting. You’ll leave with a nearly complete, lightweight, durable kayak — ready for finishing and adventure!

Course Schedule

Monday–Friday, October 20–31
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Evenings)

Saturday, October 25
 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Full-day workshop)

Builder:

Spend your evenings crafting your very own custom recreation kayak — the classic Chesapeake Light Craft 16 — in this hands-on boatbuilding course at Spaulding!

“More than 7,000 Chesapeake-series kits have been shipped since 1996. An enduring favorite among paddlers, the award-winning Chesapeakes are the gold standard for build-it-yourself sea kayaks. They are easy to build but handsome and fast.”
— Chesapeake Light Craft

Under the guidance of Spaulding instructor Tim Reed, you’ll be walked through each stage of construction — from scarfing joints, mixing epoxy, and assembling the hull — with expert tips and hands-on instruction every step of the way.

This course is ideal for first-time builders looking to learn the fundamentals of woodworking, fiberglassing, and boat construction in a relaxed and supportive setting. You’ll leave with a nearly complete, lightweight, durable kayak — ready for finishing and adventure!

Course Schedule

Monday–Friday, October 20–31
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Evenings)

Saturday, October 25
 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Full-day workshop)

Build this Boat if You Want…

  • A beautiful, fast, and stable recreational kayak

  • A project suitable for beginner to intermediate skill levels

  • A boat that fits nearly all paddler sizes

  • A customizable design and finish

  • To gain confidence and hands-on boatbuilding experience

Bring a Partner!

Want to share the build? You’re welcome to bring a partner, friend, or family member to help you during the course for an additional fee. It’s a great way to split the labor and make the experience even more fun.

Select “Assistant Builder” at check out to register a partner.

Optional Finishing Period

While the 48-hour course will get your boat fully constructed, there’s not enough time in-class to complete finishing (painting, varnishing, etc.).

We offer an optional finishing period with added flexibility and guidance:

  • Up to 3 weeks of on-site storage and workspace: $200/week

  • 2 hours of instructor guidance each week

  • Optional use of Spaulding tools and materials (available for an additional fee)

This gives you time and space to apply finishing touches at your own pace — without rushing the process or having to find space at home.

CLC 16 Kit Contents and Cost:

We partner with Chesapeake Light Craft to provide top-quality boat kits. This course features the Chesapeake 16 model.

Complete Kit Cost: $1,298 (Shipping and taxes not included — estimate $300–$400)

CLC16 Kit Includes:

  • Hatches, bulkheads, and full deck rigging

  • Adjustable footbraces, tractor seat, and backband

  • Premium epoxy kit and fiberglass for hull and deck

  • 180-page illustrated instruction manual

This Kayak is perfect if:

  • You weigh between 140 and 195lbs

  • A large cockpit and strong stability in a traditional touring kayak

After booking your class, we’ll contact you to confirm and place your kit order. Changes may be made up to one month before the course begins.