About

Our mission and vision

Sloopcraft’s mission is a deeply personal and tangible effort to breathe new life into the time-honored tradition of Carriacou Sloop building. Rather than simply documenting this UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage, Sloopcraft invites visitors to become active participants in its preservation. The organization provides a unique opportunity for individuals to immerse themselves in the island’s culture by offering hands-on experiences. Visitors are encouraged to stay and work alongside master boat builders, learning the intricate, centuries-old techniques of shaping hulls, planking, and rigging with traditional tools. This not only imparts practical skills but also fosters a profound connection to the local community and its maritime history. By transforming tourists into apprentices, Sloopcraft ensures that the knowledge of this vital craft is not lost but is actively passed on to a new generation, keeping the rhythmic sounds of the adze and the scent of seasoned wood alive on the beaches of Carriacou.

The history of Carriacou Sloops

The history of the Carriacou Sloop is deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of the small Caribbean island of Carriacou. This unique and elegant single-masted wooden vessel, with its distinctive fore-and-aft rig, is a product of a centuries-old boatbuilding tradition. Legend has it that the craft was introduced by shipwrecked Scottish sailors who intermingled with the local population in the 19th century, creating a lineage of master shipwrights. Originally built on the beaches of Carriacou using local hardwoods like greenheart and white cedar, these sloops were designed for a variety of purposes—from carrying fish and cargo to engaging in the brisk inter-island smuggling trade. Their reputation for speed and seaworthiness made them highly sought after. Though modern motorized vessels led to a decline in their use, a renewed interest, fueled by events like the Carriacou Regatta and the efforts of dedicated individuals, has sparked a resurgence, ensuring the preservation of this cherished maritime heritage. In recognition of its cultural significance, the traditional wooden boatbuilding of Carriacou and Petite Martinique has been designated as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.

Our commitment to cultural preservation

Sloopcraft.com’s commitment to cultural preservation goes beyond mere advocacy; it is a full-fledged, hands-on dedication to ensuring the survival of Carriacou’s traditional boatbuilding. Recognizing the decline in the number of active shipwrights and the fading knowledge of this unique craft, the organization has created a living workshop and educational hub. By offering apprenticeships and immersive experiences, they are actively creating a new generation of skilled boat builders, both local and international, who will carry on the traditions. Their mission is not just about building boats, but about building community and preserving the stories and skills that are an integral part of Carriacou’s identity. This commitment is tangible in every adze stroke and every piece of wood joined, ensuring that the legacy of the Carriacou Sloop remains a living, breathing part of the island’s future.