Carvel Built Meaning in Sailing

Carvel built describes a method of boat construction where the wooden planks sit flush. The edges of the boards meet smoothly rather than overlapping one another for a flat surface. This technique creates a very strong and heavy hull with a smooth outer finish. Sailors often fill the small gaps between the planks with fibers to keep water out. This style of building has been used for centuries to create large ocean ships. One example occurs when a builder fits smooth oak boards onto a sturdy wooden frame. This creates the classic look seen on many traditional sailing vessels in the harbor. The smooth hull moves through the water with less resistance than an overlapping design. This construction requires a heavy internal frame to support the weight of the flat planks. Maintaining a carvel hull involves checking the seals between the boards to prevent any leaks. This craftsmanship represents a high level of skill in the history of traditional wooden boatbuilding.