Mahone Bay Shipbuilding

The early days of shipbuilding in Mahone Bay date back to the mid-1700s. During this time Mahone Bay developed into a thriving shipbuilding industry that reached its peak in the mid-1900s. Over one thousand wooden vessels of various sizes and styles from dozens of boatyards comprised the industry. At one point the boat building industry reputably employed the majority of the Town.

Boats were built in Mahone Bay to meet the demand of ours and neighbouring communities involved in the fishing, transportation, trade and war efforts. As time changed the days of the wooden sailing vessel yielded to modern shipbuilding. In the early 1900’s there was a demand for recreational yachts and Mahone Bay was the first major builder of high end luxury yachts with Obed Ham Yachtworks. This industry thrived until the mid 1970’s when Paceship Yachts closed.  Mahone Bay’s shipbuilding industry faded and unfortunately virtually nothing is left of the shipyards that were once such a vital and vibrant part of the Town of Mahone Bay.

The Heritage Boatyard Co-op is dedicated to preserving and promoting Nova Scotia’s South Shore wooden boatbuilding history.