Chesapeake Bay Skipjack

Chesapeake Bay Builders Pre-War 1890-1960 $15,000-$100,000

Why it matters

The skipjack is Maryland's state boat, and the last working sail fleet in the United States. Maryland law requires oystering under sail in certain waters, preserving a tradition that would otherwise have vanished. These boats are living history, connecting modern watermen to centuries of Chesapeake heritage. When you see a skipjack dredging, you're watching the past work.

Specifications

Hull Material White pine or juniper planking on oak frames
Length 40-60 ft
Beam 14-16 ft
Draft 4 ft (centerboard up)
Weight 15,000-25,000 lbs
Engine Yawl boat pushes on calm days (by law)
Engine Type sail with auxiliary yawl
Horsepower N/A
Passengers 6
Production ~1,000 built historically

Notable Features

  • Last commercial sailing fleet in US
  • Dredging oysters under sail
  • Single masted sloop
  • Centerboard design

Patina notes

Working skipjacks carry the patina of commercial fishing. The decks are worn from oyster shells. The booms show the marks of dredge cables. The hulls are painted workboat white, touched up season after season. This is the patina of labor, not leisure.

Preservation reality

Perhaps a dozen skipjacks remain actively working, with more preserved as museum pieces. The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum has the Nathan of Dorchester. Some former workboats have been converted to charters or yachts. Maintaining a skipjack requires dedication and access to traditional skills.

Clubs

  • Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
  • Traditional Small Craft Association
  • Deal Island Skipjack Heritage Committee

Events

  • Deal Island Skipjack Races (Labor Day)
  • St. Michaels Antique Boat Festival
  • Chestertown Tea Party Parade

Sources