How to Build the Gloucester Light Dory: A Classic in Plywood

A true guide for an easy build. The author knows his trade.

I really like the Gloucester Light dory design and concept and this publication is the definitive writing on it's construction. You must also get your hands on the actual plans to use in conjunction with this book which others may whine about but I see that as being entirely fair.The G.L.D. has it's limitations but for simplicity of construction and relative performance as a design specific to oar power, the boat shines. Rowing close winded requires ballast/trim tuning for some and initial stability is too tender for some folks preferences too but the design is sound and permits very good utilitiy and a nice turn of speed.The book is nicely written by Mr. Payson and a pleasure to read. The information is clear and concise with good diagrams. This should be very good suplamentary material for anyone attempting to build a Bolger G.L.D.

I believe Phil Bolger himself, who designed the boat, said it was his favorite design (out of hundreds of boats he built). I have owned two of these boats for many years and they get a lot of use. Both boats were built using this book and the plans, which, yes, you must purchase separately. I can't say enough about the Gloucester Light ...a trusty, seaworthy, responsive craft. Don't worry about the plywood construction. Pay attention to the instructions while building, protect the boat when not in use and paint it up occasionally ...and this boat will last a long time and carry you safely on the water.

good book, pretty nice for those trying to build this kind of boat, i got this for reference, its just handy to get as much info on boat stuff, the gardener book is alos good for dory stuff, indespensible really, but this was fun to look at...

This is a must have book for lovers of classic small boat design. Although you should buy the full set of plans separately in order to read some of the print notes more clearly, this book is an essential companion to those plans. If you have no interest in actually building the boat, but want to learn more about how the perfect dory design is built, then you really don't need the plans. It's a great read in a way that only Dynamite is able to express so very clearly.

Easy read, simple methods, can be built from book (no need to buy other plans). Small book but well written in the how-to style. Bought with several other books, the the technique is not the epoxy-can-do-everything style. Plenty of how-to techniques explained, dated, but helpful lessons.

I love Harold Payson books! I never would have thought that an average DIYer could build an actual usable boat at home by themselves. The price tag on existing boats (especially several hundred $$$ PLASTIC sporting goods store kayaks) led me to research plans and kits. This book is packed with useful information. I would recommend it to ANYONE thinking of building a small boat (especially a Dory) at home by themselves.

The usual Dynamite Payson, excellent. Leads you through building the boat from strong back to painting with his thoughts on wood, paint, framing, and glues. He even explains why he does things one way and not another. Must have if you are going to build one of his simple, useful boats.

The book shows a clear, logical step-by-step procedure of building the famous Gloucester Gull light Dory.Will join photos of building as soon as finished.

The must have book if you want to build this boat. I built one from the book alone, no plan needed, and it is beautiful.100% recommended

Very good book