What makes a wooden boat valuable
- Make and model history
- Original engine and hardware
- Condition of planking, frames, and bottom
- Documentation of restoration work
Unrestored boats
An unrestored boat can still have value to a restorer, especially rare models. We review each one individually.
Originality matters
Collectors pay for boats that are close to original: the right engine, hardware, and upholstery. Tell us what has been replaced and when.
Wood condition
Planking, frames, and the bottom decide whether a wooden boat is a restoration or a runner. Boats stored dry for years may need to be soaked before launching. Photos of the bottom and transom help.
- Bottom planking
- Transom and keel
- Frames and ribs
- Varnish condition
- Engine and hardware
Records and history
Hull numbers, builder cards, and restoration records can add real value to classic boats. Keep any history you have with the boat.
Makes we see often
Chris-Craft, Gar Wood, Hacker-Craft, Century, Lyman, Elco, Thompson, Penn Yan, Old Town, Dodge, Richardson, Higgins, Matthews, Owens, and small regional builders long out of business.
Not on the list? It is here to help you find your boat, not to limit what we take. We accept every make and model, listed or not, including rare builders and companies that closed decades ago. A donation depends on the boat's condition and paperwork, never the name on the hull, so enter yours on the form even if you do not see it here.
Questions
My wooden boat has been out of the water for years. Is it dried out?
Possibly. Many can be restored. Photos help us judge.
Does an appraisal help?
For rare boats, sometimes. We will tell you if it makes sense.
Can you take a boat that needs a full restoration?
Sometimes, depending on rarity. We will be honest.
Is my boat a classic or just old?
Make, model, and condition decide it. Send photos and we will tell you what we think.
Do you take unrestored project boats?
Sometimes, especially rare models. We review each one individually.