12' Wooden Whitehall Rowboat with Gelcoat reinforcement

Renowned as one of the most elegant rowboats of the 19th century, the Whitehall was originally built at the foot of Whitehall Street in New York City. These boats played an important role in New York Harbor, carrying sailors, goods, and supplies between the shore and ships anchored offshore.

Our 12-Foot Whitehall Rowboat pays tribute to this iconic maritime heritage while combining traditional craftsmanship with modern durability.

Traditional Clinker-Built Construction

The hull is handcrafted using the traditional clinker (lapstrake) construction method, in which overlapping planks create the Whitehall's distinctive hull lines. This historic technique has deep roots in Northern European boatbuilding and was used for centuries by Anglo-Saxon, Frisian, and Scandinavian boatbuilders.

Each hull is carefully shaped and assembled plank by plank by skilled artisans, preserving the authentic character of the original Whitehall design.

Premium Wood & Expert Craftsmanship

The boat is constructed from carefully selected Western Red Cedar, Yellow Cedar, and hardwood, chosen for their lightweight strength, natural beauty, and resistance to rot. The gunwales are crafted from solid beech wood, adding durability and a refined finish.

Every curve, joint, and plank is shaped and fitted by hand. With approximately 600–700 hours of skilled craftsmanship invested in each boat, every Whitehall reflects exceptional attention to detail and quality.

Modern Protection & Durability

While inspired by a historic design, this Whitehall is built for modern use. The hull is reinforced with fiberglass and epoxy on both the inside and outside, providing additional strength and structural protection.

A premium gelcoat finish helps protect the hull from UV exposure and hydrolysis, ensuring long-lasting beauty and performance on the water.

Standard Features

• Dimensions: 12 ft L × 41 in W × 27.5 in H
• Capacity: 2 persons
• Weight: 160 lbs without sliding seat
• Standard seating: 2 fixed benches
• Paddles: 4 wooden paddles — 2 short and 2 long with leather oar collars
• Oarlocks: 4
• Maximum horsepower: 1 HP
• Gunwales: Solid beech wood
• Construction: Western Red Cedar, Yellow Cedar & hardwood
• Hull reinforcement: Fiberglass and epoxy inside and out
• Finish: Premium gelcoat for UV and hydrolysis protection

Optional Sliding Seat

Add the K243-Sliding Seat ($450) to transform the Whitehall into a more dynamic rowing experience. Its smooth leg-driven motion engages the entire body, helping increase rowing power, efficiency, comfort, and fitness.

A Classic Built for Generations

With its historic New York Harbor heritage, traditional clinker construction, and hundreds of hours of handcrafted workmanship, the 12-Foot Whitehall Rowboat is more than a functional boat - it's a timeless piece of maritime craftsmanship.