Did you know that Massachusetts boasts one of the nation's rich maritime histories? From fishing to whale watching, the water is an important part of New England's past. That's why Lowell's Boat Shop is such an important tourist attraction in Amesbury, Massachusetts. This national landmark and working museum has been producing custom built dories and skiffs since 1793, preserving and perpetuating the art and craft of wooden boat making. Whether you're an avid rower or simply looking to learn a little history during your upcoming Massachusetts car rental vacation, there's no better place to begin your journey than at Lowell's Boat Shop.

A quick history of the shop

Lowell's Boat shop was established in 1793 and has since become the oldest continuously operating boat shop in the United States. What's more, Lowell's is the only remaining survivor of the area's world-renowned dory manufacturing industry. Founded by Simeon Lowell, the Lowell's Boat Shop made radical innovations to traditional boat design, and even employed a seminal form of assembly line manufacturing back in the 19th century. Massachusetts rental car travelers won't see many dories out and about on the waterways of the East Coast any more, but these handcrafted rigs can still e seen at rowing clubs, hunting camps and Life Saving Services throughout the nation.

About the Boat Shop Museum

The Lowell's Boat Shop is part working factory and part living museum. While the company continues to build dories and skills in the time-honored tradition, a section of the manufacturing area has been designed to house exhibits and information for Massachusetts rental car visitors. Located on the banks of the Merrimack River, Lowell's Boat Shop provides a interactive, historical learning experience for local school children, scout groups, and curios Massachusetts rental car travelers. Visitors to the museum will learn important boat building techniques as they watch skilled craftsmen at work. Massachusetts rental car members of Lowell's Boat Shop will also have the opportunity to set sail and paddle one of the unique dories inside the Merrimack Bay.

Classes and workshops

If there's one thing that the Lowell Boat Shop is determined to do, it's continue the art of dory building for years to come. That''s why Massachusetts rental car travelers can participate in a number of unique classes and workshops at the historic boat manufacturing warehouse. Boat building classes are offered periodically throughout the year, and include traditional boat building techniques. If you're interested in enrolling on a class during your upcoming Massachusetts rental car vacation simply contact Lowell's by phone at 978-834-0050.

What is a dory boat?

A dory boat is a small, shallow-draft boat that measures between 15 and 22 feet long. This type of boat is very lightweight and popular among commercial fishermen. Today, dory boats can be seen bobbing on waterways throughout New England and Nova Scotia, Canada. These charming boats can also be found as dinghy boats on yachts and as life boats on many commercial ocean liners.

Contact Lowell's today

Massachusetts rental car travelers will find Lowell's Boat Hop and Museum at 459 Main Street in Amesbury, Massachusetts. The boat shop and museum are open year round, with reduced winter hours. Guided tours are offered by appointment only. Members and owners of Lowell's Boat Shop boats are invited to row from the boat shop launch on the Merrimack River. For more information on membership, or to learn more about this unique New England attraction, please contact the Lowell Boat Shop directly at info@lowellsboatshop.com.