Where Timeless Craft
Meets the Water
Stinky Bilge Boat Company restores the world's finest classic wooden boats — preserving artistry, history, and soul for the most discerning collectors.
Some Boats Are Restored. Some Are Brought Back to Life.
We are craftsmen dedicated to the restoration, repair, maintenance, and construction of classic wooden boats — honoring the lines, methods, and traditions that made these boats timeless in the first place. Every plank, seam, frame, and finish tells a story, and we believe those stories deserve to survive.
Our foundation was built under the mentorship of Sidney Young, a respected legend in the wooden boating community whose standards, knowledge, and work ethic shaped generations of craftsmen. We carry forward the tried-and-true techniques that have stood the test of time — embracing modern products and coatings only when they genuinely improve longevity and preservation.
"At Stinky Bilge, we approach every project honestly and genuinely. Fair work for fair prices, straightforward conversations, and craftsmanship that speaks for itself long after the boat leaves the shop."
The Art of Restoration
Each service is performed by master craftsmen with decades of experience in traditional wooden boatbuilding.
Full Restorations
A complete stem-to-stern restoration using traditional boatbuilding methods and the finest period-correct materials. Every plank, fitting, and detail — brought back to life with the care and patience these boats deserve.
Maintenance
Keeping your classic wooden boat in the condition it deserves. Seasonal service, varnish upkeep, hull inspections, mechanical servicing — the ongoing care that protects your investment and keeps you on the water.
Repair
From a single damaged plank to structural hull work, we address every repair with the same honesty and craftsmanship we bring to a full restoration. No shortcuts. Fair prices. Straight talk.
A Bespoke Approach
Private Consultation
We meet with you personally to assess your vessel, understand your vision, and provide a transparent, detailed estimate.
Survey & Documentation
Every detail is catalogued. We photograph, measure, and document the vessel before a single plank is touched.
Master Restoration
Our craftsmen work with patience and precision — repairing, replacing, and refinishing every element to an exacting standard.
Delivery & Launch
We deliver a museum-quality vessel, ready for the water — and ready to be admired for generations to come.
Words From Our Clients
"They brought my grandfather's 1949 Chris-Craft back to life. The craftsmanship is extraordinary — it looks better than the day it was built."
Robert H.
Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
"Honest, skilled, and deeply passionate about their work. My classic wooden runabout is now the most beautiful vessel on the lake. Worth every penny."
Margaret T.
Sandpoint, Idaho
"I was skeptical my old mahogany cruiser could be saved. These craftsmen proved me wrong. Extraordinary attention to detail and a genuine love for classic boats."
David K.
Priest Lake, Idaho
Your Classic Boat Deserves the Best
Whether you have a family heirloom or a rare collector's find, we would be honored to discuss how we can restore it to its full magnificence.