Oarling -- Tom McCarty

Sam:

It took all winter to decide on the boat and my choice of the Oarling was certainly the right one. Working weekends in my backyard, it took me about six weeks to complete. I added some flotation to the bow and stern to keep me afloat if I capsize off the New England coast. I also and made the seat removable or movable.

One nice feature I added was to fill the gap between the gunwale with a dark wood flour I made by running it through my coffee maker. I also used a peel ply to cut down on the sanding, it worked but I need more practice with it.

The boat rows better than I dreamed and has the added benefit of having the nicest lines of any dory in harbor.

The photo below was taken on Lake Umbagog in NH where I used it for some remote camping. The Oarling easily carried all my gear. The next trip is the Maine Island Trail.

Thanks again, I couldn't be more pleased.

Tom McCarty
Newburyport, MA