Wooden Boat Museum of Newfoundland and Labrador

Come visit the Wooden Boat Museum of Newfoundland and Labrador – a place where the history and traditions of wooden boat building come to life! The museum is located on the Avalon Peninsula, in Winterton, Newfoundland and Labrador. The first floor of the museum incorporates a new provincial exhibit, which tells the story of the humble wooden boat and its contribution to the economy and way of life in this Province. Accompanying the story are various full sized boats and models that show the many types of boats which have shaped Newfoundland and Labrador’s history. In addition artifacts which reflect traditional fishing methods and the province’s maritime history can be seen throughout the Museum. The boat building room houses the many traditional boat building tools and a boat which under construction. Also on the first floor take time to view our Indeavour Exhibit which details the 1612 voyage taken by John Guy (Newfoundland’s first Governor) to meet and trade with the Beothuck in Trinity Bay.

In the Boat Shed take a step back in time. The smell of wood shavings fills the air. Here boats are built, like they used to be, with tools from the past, hand cut timber, and oakum. Talk with the onsite boat builder or a friendly staff member, who are always happy to answer your questions.

The upstairs of the Museum showcases life in a fishing community. Here you will learn the stories of what it was like to grow up, live and work in one of Newfoundland’s fishing communities. Displays focus on agriculture, coopering, hunting, school life, and domestic life in an outport community.

Our Museum also hosts numerous events and workshops. With the guide of a seasoned instructor, workshop participants learn the fundamentals of building traditional wooden boats. Visiting Artists Program highlights local artists as they demonstrate their talents – wood carving, painting, rug hooking and more! For more information, check out the website for a schedule of events, visiting artists and workshops.

The Museum doesn’t end at the doors. While in the area, be sure to take in the Heritage Walking Trail. Enjoy local heritage buildings, historic fishing stages, the natural landscape, and nature.