Marine carpenter

The marine carpenter designs, shapes, and assembles the wooden framework of traditional sailing or motor boats. He chooses the appropriate wood species—often oak, iroko, or pine—according to the function of each part: keel, stem, frames, and planking. His work combines technical precision, blueprint reading, mastery of volumes, and a sense of craftsmanship.

This ancestral profession requires knowledge of marine curves, buoyancy constraints, and water resistance. It calls upon rare skills: tracing, shaping with a plane or adze, complex assemblies, and caulking. The marine carpenter can work on new construction or the restoration of old boats, particularly those belonging to river or maritime heritage. He collaborates closely with sailmakers, wood carvers, and naval mechanics, respecting a living and evolving tradition.

Become a marine carpenter

There is no specific certified vocational training for this profession in Switzerland. However, it is still possible to transfer knowledge without certification from a craftsperson.

In an initial CFC boat builder training course, lessons are taught on the construction and restoration of boats using various materials, including wood. The skills acquired in reading plans, shaping wood and assembly are directly applicable to the profession of marine carpenter. Duration 4 years. You will find all the information on orientation.ch .

In an initial CFC carpenter training, offers a solid foundation in woodworking, plan reading, and complex assemblies. Although focused on building construction, this training develops essential skills for marine carpentry. ​Duration 4 years. You will find all the information on orientation.ch .

Continuing education programs, such as those offered by FRECEM , allow you to further specialize in woodworking and can be beneficial for moving into marine carpentry. You will find all the information on frecem.ch .

Several centers in France offer qualifying or specialized professional training:

• The Lycée de la Mer in Gujan-Mestras , located in Gironde, offers training in this field and is provided within the framework of the Wood and Associated Materials sector.
• The AFPA in Saint-Malo offers training in "Carpentry" and although this training is not specifically dedicated to marine carpentry, the skills acquired can be transferable to this field, particularly for those wishing to specialize later.
• The GRETA-CFA of Western Brittany in Concarneau offers a Professional Certificate (BP) in Marine Carpentry.