...I found myself wondering, as I toured Giesler Boat Builders factory in Powassan, Ontario. The tour was part of the annual meeting of the International Wood Collectors Association that was held in nearby Huntsville, Ontario.

At the moment I was shooting the video below, I couldn't think of anything better than to own one of these beauties. I found myself thinking that wooden boats are one of those things that we modern folk think of as unobtainable playthings of the rich and famous, whereas this tour made me realize that hey, these are really practical products for real folks, and have been for centuries. Our tour guide (sorry, I lost his name) was simply great in his explanation and detail of the process, and by the time we were ready to leave I was sorry I didn't have the checkbook along.

From the Giesler website...

"Why buy a Cedar strip boat ?

There are several advantages of wood construction besides its natural beauty.

First of all, wood has strength. The weight to strength ratio of wood is better than most other materials being used in boat construction. This means that wooden boats are lighter and stronger than most boats made from other materials. Wood will also withstand constant flexing, thus giving cedar strip boats a softer, quieter ride, even in the roughest waters. Wood boats are also easily repaired without the need for complicated equipment , hazardous chemicals, or extensive labour. With the development of new adhesives to make the joints water tight, advances in varnishes and paints to minimize maintenance, plus the natural beauty and warmth of wood, you can see that a cedar strip really is the natural choice."

Now this is a great way to Go Wood.