Whitehall Rowboats: A Timeless Classic Reimagined Renowned as one of the most elegant rowboats of the 19th century, the Whitehall was originally crafted at the foot of Whitehall Street in New York City. These boats served as vital workhorses, ferrying sailors, goods, and services to and from the bustling ships anchored in New York Harbor. Our 12-Foot Whitehall Rowboat pays tribute to that rich maritime heritage. Built using the traditional clinker (or lapstrake) method—where the planks of the hull overlap along their edges—this technique, originating in Northern Europe, was mastered by the Anglo-Saxons, Frisians, and Scandinavians and later used in the iconic Hanseatic cog. Crafted with Precision from Premium Wood This Whitehall is meticulously constructed from hand-selected cedar planks, prized for their light weight, strength, and resistance to rot. Each plank is shaped, fitted, and overlapped with exacting care to form the classic clinker hull. The gunwales are made from solid beech wood, chosen for its durability and natural beauty. Shaping and installing these components by hand is a time-intensive process that demands patience, skill, and an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. Every curve, joint, and finish is the result of countless hours of careful work, ensuring a boat that is not only functional, but a work of art. To bring this classic to life with modern strength and resilience, we’ve reinforced the hull with fiberglass and epoxy both inside and out. A final outer layer of high-quality gelcoat offers exceptional protection against UV rays and hydrolysis, ensuring the boat maintains its beauty and performance for years to come. Each Whitehall is a labor of passion and precision, with over 600 to 700 hours of expert craftsmanship poured into its construction. We leave nothing to chance—because for us, perfection isn’t a goal, it’s a standard. Features: * Dim: 12 foot Length x 41 Inches Width x 27.5 Inches Height * Come standard with two benches (Sliding seat is optional for $450) * 4 wood paddles * 4 oarlocks * Weight: 160 lbs (without sliding seat) * Capacity: 2 person (300lbs) * Max Horse Power Rating: 1HP * Beech gunwale * Western red cedar, yellow cedar and hard wood construction * Reinforced with clear layers of fiberglass inside and out * Reinforced with a premium gelcoat for UV and hydrolysis protection Optional: Sliding seat ($450). It will transform rowing into a full-body workout by allowing smooth leg-driven motion, increasing power and efficiency with each stroke. It's a must-have for anyone seeking performance, fitness, and comfort on the water. Watch a video of the 12-Foot Row Boat.
History
A Whitehall clinker-built rowboat is a unique and classic watercraft that combines the elegance of a Whitehall rowboat with the traditional clinker construction method. Whitehall rowboats, historically associated with the Whitehall district of New York City, are renowned for their graceful lines, versatility, and efficient rowing capabilities. The clinker construction method, also known as lapstrake, involves overlapping planks along the hull, creating a distinctive appearance and providing strength to the boat. This construction style is a hallmark of traditional boatbuilding, and when applied to a Whitehall rowboat, it adds a touch of heritage and craftsmanship. The combination of the Whitehall design and clinker construction results in a rowboat that not only glides smoothly through the water but also boasts a strong and durable hull. The overlapping planks create a robust structure that can withstand the rigors of rowing in various water conditions. Craftsmen and boatbuilders may choose clinker construction for a Whitehall rowboat to pay homage to traditional techniques while also ensuring a reliable and resilient vessel. The combination of a timeless design and time-tested construction methods results in a rowboat that stands out both in terms of aesthetics and performance. Whether used for recreation, racing, or simply exploring serene waterways, a Whitehall clinker-built rowboat represents a harmonious blend of tradition and functionality. As enthusiasts and skilled artisans continue to appreciate and revive traditional boatbuilding techniques, the Whitehall clinker-built rowboat remains a testament to the enduring appeal of classic watercraft.
