"There's nothing, absolutely   
nothing, half so much worth   
doing as simply messing   
around in boats."   
Wind in the Willows   

Welcome to the Guild!

Our Mission

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The Classic Yacht Restoration Guild is dedicated to the preservation of traditional watercraft. Yacht restorations are accomplished through a combination of member donated skills and resources. The Guild is fortunate to have talented volunteer leadership and a growing membership.

The mission of the Guild is continuing education of those interested in boat restoration. The flagship, Elf, is used to educate students and community members interested in maritime history, historical restoration techniques, seamanship, and tidewater ecology. Elf's mission embraces an established tradition of giving back to the community that has provided a home and resources needed for her restoration.

Current News

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Elf Featured by Interlux

February 9, 2009: Elf has been featured in an Interlux article that can be found on the YachtNLife BLOG

Elf Considered for Restoration Award

January, 2009: Elf has been shortlisted for the Classic Boat Restoration of the Year Award by Classic Boat magazine. Take a look at all the nominees by clicking here.

New to the Site!

October 22: Take a look at "The Woods of Elf" just added to the Yacht Elf page. It is a complete breakdown of all the woods used in Elf's restoration.

Elf has Ring Side Seats for the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race

October 16, Baltimore, MD: Elf enjoyed the role of "Visiting Racing Cutter" for the opening festivities of the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race. Moored at the Crescent Marina, Elf welcomed visitors from the schooner fleet and was able to show her capabilities at the Parade of Sail through Baltimore's Inner Harbor.

Elf departed with the racing fleet and took position several miles down bay from the start. The bay was a truly amazing sight as over fifty registered schooners crossed the start and headed toward Portsmouth, VA. Visitors on the Elf had the immense pleasure of watching Virginia, the 2007 race winner, power by under a full press of sail a stone's throw away.

Elf continued on to her home port at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD.