Gathering a basic kit of good quality tools is essential before students arrive on campus for their first day of class. The following information is provided to help students understand the tools and books needed for their respective program and how to acquire them.
MARINE SYSTEMS
Textbooks and Recommended Reading:
Before the first day of class, students should have a copy of the two books noted with an asterisk (*) on the Required Reading List. The other two books on the Required Reading List have several copies available for checkout in the school’s library or students may purchase from a retailer of their choice. A list of additional recommended readings will be shared with you on the first day of school. These supplemental books are optional but enriching. Some are available in the school’s library, or you may choose to purchase them individually.
2026-2027 Marine Systems Program Book List
Tools:
All students enrolled in the Marine Systems Program must obtain the required tools on the Marine Systems Program Tool List. Optional tools listed are those tools that a student may find helpful but are not required for the core program. NWSWB does not recommend a specific tool vendor or supplier for marine systems tools. For tool guidance, read the advice letters from instructors included in the tool list link below.
2026-2027 Marine Systems Tool List
BOATBUILDING
Textbooks and Recommended Reading:
Students enrolled in the Wooden Boatbuilding program are provided the required textbook, Hand Tools by Aldren A. Watson. All other required titles are available in the school’s library for checkout or student’s may purchase from a provider of their choice. A list of additional recommended readings will be shared with you on the first day of school. These supplemental books are optional but enriching. Some are available in the school’s library, or you may choose to purchase them individually.
2026-2027 Boatbuilding Program Book List
Tools:
For the boatbuilding program, students may purchase tools at a discounted rate through our trusted partner, Edensaw Woods, a proud sponsor of the Boat School, located in Port Townsend, Washington. Alternatively, some students buy used tools, borrow from friends or family, or shop through other retailers, and all of those options are acceptable as long as the tools meet the specifications on this year’s list.
All students enrolled in the boatbuilding program must obtain the required tools on the Boatbuilding Program Tool List. Optional tools listed are those tools that a student may find helpful but are not required for the core program.
For tool guidance, read an advice letter from instructors: A Student’s Guide to Buying Tools
2026-2027 Boatbuilding Program Tool List – PDF Version
2026-2027 Boatbuilding Program Tool List – Excel Version
How to Order
The tool list for the Boatbuilding Program is listed above. The tool list also serves as Edensaw’s ordering form, and their contact information is included on the document. To access your school discount and place an order, please reach out to Edensaw directly. Students may pre‑order tools for will‑call pickup.
211 Seton Rd.
Port Townsend, WA 98368
www.edensaw.com
