Frequently Asked Questions
Is this website searchable?
Yes!
Go to the published URL of the Google Site.
Look at the top right-hand corner of the page.
Click the magnifying glass (search bar icon).
Type your keyword and press Enter.
Can I print a page or pages of this web site?
We think so, but you may need to play with it a bit!
Directions are listed below, but if you need help, just Google "Can I print a Google Sites web page?"
The easiest way is to use your web browser's built-in print command. [1]
To print, follow these quick steps:
On a PC: Press Ctrl + P on your keyboard.
On a Mac: Press CMD + F on your keyboard.
Alternatively, click the three dots in the top-right corner of your browser (such as Google Chrome) and select Print. [1, 2]
If you find that the webpage's layout overlaps or looks cut off when printing, you can try these extra steps:
Look for a Pop-out icon on embedded documents (like a PDF or Google Doc) to open the file in a new tab. Print the file directly from that new tab.
Use browser extensions like Print Friendly & PDF to format the page cleanly before printing.
Take a screenshot of the visible page using your computer's built-in snipping tool, then paste and print the image file. [1, 2, 3, 4]
You can find more helpful community tips for printing complex pages on the Google Sites Help Forum. [1]
How much will our 14' Wright Skiff weigh upon completion?
Approximately 300 pounds dry, and approximatley 600 pounds "wet." If you fiberglass your boat bottom, it will weigh somewhere in the middle!
Yes! With over 200 boats in the water, we know that they float1
Please arrive at 7:45 a.m. Monday through Friday, and no later than 9:30 a.m. on Saturday to bail out your boat. If you want to practice rowing before the race, 9:00 a.m. would be a good start time!
What is the best size for a boat trailer?
A standard 16’ boat trailer should work fine, with modifications that you can do at home or, using the plans, before your arrival at Family Boat Building Week. If you don't yet have a boat trailer, or just need to get your boat home, you can easily modify a long flatbed trailer. Just remember that that boat is 14' long, and that you will need lights and straps!
Where do we register our boat?
In the home state where it will ultimately live.
Can I mount a motor on our boat, or is it strictly for rowing?
While the 14" Wright Skiff is not built for a motor, if you decide to add one, we recommend using a maximum size of 3 to 4 horsepower. If you go larger, you will most likely need to modify your transom, as there is tremendous stress and vibration that comes with an outboard motor.
If you are interested in building a 16' Wright Skiff specifically designed for a small outboard motor, please contact the Office and let them know!
I can't make it next year. What are the Family Boat Building Week dates in the following years?
Subject to program changes, natural disasters, etc., we plan to host Family Boat Building Week on the following dates!
June 21-26, 2027
June 19-24, 2028
June 18-23, 2029
June 17-22, 2030
June 16-21, 2031
Check out the Deltaville Maritime Museum's website for additional information! Just remember, "Always the third full week in June," and you can find future dates as well!
What happens if we have bad weather during Family Boat Building Week?
Your boat will be built under cover, and if there are sever storms in the area, we will move inside the pavillion until the storm passes.
Will I need a life jacket for Saturday?
Yes, you will need one life jacket for each person in your boat!
For adult boating, you need a USCG-approved life jacket properly fitted to your weight and chest size. You must carry one wearable Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for each person onboard, but for the boat race on Saturday, we ask that all boaters wear their life jackets while in their boats! Always check the inside label to ensure it is USCG-approved for your specific activity.
New Labeling System
The USCG now uses a simpler, number-based system for life jackets.
Level 70 - Good for calm, near-shore waters where rescue is close by (Old Type III).
Level 100 - Good for open or rougher waters (Old Type II).
Level 150 - Best for offshore waters. It turns an unconscious person face-up in the water (Old Type I).
How to Find Your Fit
Chest Size: Measure your chest using a tape measure. Life jacket sizes are based on chest measurements.
Weight: Match your body weight to the jacket's weight limit. Buoyancy is the upward force that keeps you floating. Adult life jackets usually provide at least 15.5 pounds of buoyancy.
The Test: Put on the life jacket and fasten all buckles. Ask a friend to pull up on the shoulders of the jacket. If the jacket slides up past your chin, it is too big.
Common Types & Examples
Foam Vests: Great for general boating, fishing, and water sports. They do not need maintenance. For example, the West Marine Type III Neoprene Flex Back Vest offers great mobility for $79.99.
Inflatable Vests: These use a CO₂ cylinder to inflate. They are lightweight, comfortable, and great for sailing. For example, the USCG Approved Deckvest LITE Automatic Inflatable PFD costs about $199.
Always check your gear before every trip. Check for rips, tears, and broken buckles. For inflatable jackets, make sure the CO₂ cylinder is full and not expired.
What is the cost of a pair of oars if we purchase them during Family Boat Building Week?
The 2026 price for a pair of oars was $120. The "day of" price will be announced on the first day of build week, as prices are subject to change. Oars are typically available the first day of Family Boatbuilding Week.
What is the oarlock size?
The oarlock size is 2 1/4".
What is a breasthook?
A breasthook is a sturdy, triangle-shaped brace at the very front of a boat (the bow). It connects the two sides of the hull and the stem post. This piece adds heavy support to the front of the boat where it hits the water.
Does the Museum have a YouTube channel?
I'd like to become a member or volunteer at the Museum. Who do I contact?
Please contact the office to learn more about volunteering and the many opportunities that exist to support the Museum!
Phone - 804-776-7200
E-mail - office@deltavillemuseum.com