Brooklyn kids launch 7 ft boats they built by hand
by Brooklyn Boatworks 5 Jun 13:37 PDT
10-11 June 2025
Brooklyn Bridge Park © Brooklyn Boatworks
Brooklyn Boatworks, a local nonprofit that teaches NYC public school students—mostly from underserved communities—to build and launch their own wooden sailboats from 3 sheets of plywood, a set of plans, and tools.
On June 10 & 11 (11AM-3PM), over 200 middle schoolers will set sail in the boats they've spent the school year building—by hand—at Brooklyn Bridge Park. These are 7-foot wooden sailboats, launched into the East River in front of cheering families, teachers, and friends.
It's an incredible visual moment—and a powerful story about kids learning real skills, working as a team, and doing something most adults haven't tried.
Since 2005, we've worked with over 2,100 students, and 84% of our schools are designated "high poverty." We recently expanded with a 3-year apprenticeship for graduates to keep learning trade skills and STEM.
www.brooklynboatworks.org
Event details:
- Dates: Tuesday, June 10th & Wednesday, June 11th
- Location: Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 4 Beach
- Graduation Ceremony: Each day at 11:00 AM
- Boat Launch: Each day at 11:30 AM