Yacht Tenders
Row. Sail. Motor.
Our traditional-style dinghies are made for more than just ship-to-shore.
Classic Beauty with Modern Versatility
Gig Harbor Boat Works is the builder of a unique line of premium small boats for rowing and sailing. Our yacht tender dinghies are modern fiberglass versions of traditional working boats, used by people who earned their living using only wind and oar.
Back in the days of working sail, a good ship-to-shore dinghy could make or break the tradesmen who ferried cargo and passengers from tall ships into port. A dinghy had to be tough, stable, and forgiving in a variety of weather conditions.
We’ve updated these classic designs in lightweight yet durable fiberglass composites. The result is a convenient, low-maintenance tender that is easy and fun for modern boaters to use. While you can use our dinghies with an outboard motor for quick ship-to-shore runs, the fantastic rowing and sailing performance also makes for a boat you’ll enjoy in its own right.
Our Best Yacht Tenders
Every dinghy in our model line has both rowing and sailing capabilities. All can be paired with a 2hp outboard motor. However, there are subtle differences that give each one a unique purpose, suiting a different type of boater. Read the short descriptions below and see which one sounds most like you.
We love talking with you about how you envision using your boat, so contact us if you’d like help selecting the best boat for you!
12' Point Defiance
An incredibly versatile dinghy equally well-suited to rowing or sailing, beamy enough for comfort while fishing or crabbing. No sliding seat, but can be rowed solo or tandem on fixed seats. With a 4-person capacity, it’s popular for families with kids or as a tender for larger yachts.
10' Navigator
Designed for optimal sailing and rowing performance, and can be used as a yacht tender for up to 3 people at a time. A convenient size for suspending from davits or sidemounting on your yacht’s transom, and excellent for towing. Weighs only 90 lbs in standard fiberglass, or 75 in our lightweight kevlar foam-core composite!
9.5' Captain's Gig
Our most stable small dinghy, particularly when paired with inflatable sponsons. Ideal for motor or trawler yachters who still want to get out rowing or sailing. The broad transom makes the boat feel less “tippy” than other traditional dinghies, and also makes it great for outboard motoring.
8' Nisqually
The best-performing 8′ rowboat you’ll find anywhere, hands down. Can transport up to 3 people and weighs only 75 lbs in standard fiberglass, or 65 lbs in our lightweight kevlar foam-core composite. If you’re short on space and are limited to an 8′ tender, this is the one you’ve been looking for.
14' Whitehall
The classic ship-to-shore vessel originally designed to transport cargo and passengers on New York Harbor in the 1800s. Tracks exceptionally well for efficient rowing that makes the most of each pull on the oars. Our version includes a built-in sliding seat, ideal for rowing for pleasure or exercise.
More Fun,
Less Fuss
Our tenders are made for more than just good looks… they’re built for folks who really want to get out there and enjoy everything that life on the water has to offer. For instance, our rugged designs, durable fiberglass construction, and low maintenance finishes are ideal for yacht owners who don’t want to fuss over their tender… yet want it to be ready for action when you are.
Our standard dinghies come with a durable vinyl trim — but wood trim upgrades are available for those who prefer some showstopping brightwork to complement your mother ship.
Ship to Shore . . . and More
Tender Features:
Custom Options
We custom build each boat to order, so you can take home exactly the tender you want. Decide what model suits you best, then customize it to fit your unique needs. (We’re here to help when you need us.)
A few popular options:
Gelcoat Color
Our standard rowboat comes in classic white — but we can add gelcoat color to personalize your boat or coordinate it with your mother ship. See color options >>
Wood Trim
Get the timeless look of a traditional wood boat by upgrading your boat’s vinyl rubrail to a laminated wood sheer. (Shown here on our 10′ Navigator.) See examples of our custom woodwork >>
Built-In Mounting Hardware
Protect the longevity of your tender by adding reinforcement for side/swimstep mounting, or 4-point lifting eyes for suspension from davits. We also offer consultations on unique mounting challenges you may have, and have even built two-piece “nesting” dinghies for those with limited deck space for tender storage!
Made in the USA: Gig Harbor, WA
Made in the USA: Gig Harbor, WA
Our Heritage
Gig Harbor Boat Works is a local homegrown company founded in 1986. We are small craft specialists, using our experience as boaters and craftsmen to create boats that combine traditional design with modern materials and conveniences.
Almost 40 years later, our boats are still proudly built here in Gig Harbor, WA and we are recognized for excellence in the small craft community worldwide.
Curbside Shipping Nationwide
Proudly made in Gig Harbor, WA, carefully packaged, and shipped to your door—from sea to shining sea.
FAQ
How do I place an order ?
We don’t currently have online checkout, so we recommend filling out our online quote form or calling us at 253-851-2126 to consult with our customer service team. Once we discuss your order we’ll generate an official quote from our accounting system. When you’re ready to accept your quote and proceed with the order, a 25% refundable deposit secures your place on our build list.
How long will it take to build my boat ?
Seasonality can impact build times greatly, but we strive to keep delivery times down to 2-3 months from the time we receive your order. Contact Us for current waitlist status.
Can I use an outboard motor with your boats ?
Yes, our boats are USCG rated for up to a 2HP outboard motor. In fact, most of our models include a built-in motorboard on the transom for this purpose. (The others can be outfitted with an outboard motor bracket that provides the necessary support.) We recommend a short-shaft motor with a reverse gear. If your motor doesn’t have a reverse gear, you will need a long-shaft motor to clear the skeg when reversing.
Where I can see your boats ?
We regularly exhibit at the Seattle Boat Show and around the Pacific Northwest, and welcome visitors at our boatshop in Gig Harbor, WA. If you’re further afield, we recommend taking a look at our YouTube for an up-close look at our boats, and asking around at your local marina. We’ve been building boats since 1986 so there are a good number out there, and we have a stellar reputation for quality work!
P.S. At this time we do not have dealerships, we only sell direct-to-consumer with no middle man marking up our prices.
The Buzz About Us
Our Blog
Lobster Boat Redesign — Update #2
See our design renderings of the all new Lobster Boat!
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The family that dives together, thrives together.
New Year, New Digs!
Gig Harbor Boat Works Expands Operations Into New Facility
A Beautiful Yacht Deserves
A Beautiful Dinghy
We're always happy to chat with you about what you're envisioning. No haggling, no high-pressure sales pitch.