Preserving maritime heritage: Carriacou’s traditional boat-building

The village of Windward, the heart of Carriacou’s centuries-old boat-building tradition, is once again showcasing its craftsmanship with the construction of a 46-foot vessel. 

The project, led by Carl Enoe, son of renowned shipwright Alwin Enoe, not only highlights the island’s maritime legacy but also creates opportunities for skills transfer to younger generations through training at the Carriacou Boat Building School.

Key aspects of the project

• Traditional craftsmanship: Built using time-honoured methods and materials, the vessel highlights the expertise of Carriacou’s master boat builders
• Training and capacity building: Young people will be trained in traditional techniques, ensuring continuity of this unique heritage
• International collaboration: Once completed, the vessel will sail to Europe, serving as a platform for cultural exchange and international promotion of Carriacou’s maritime heritage
• Partnership: The initiative is supported by the Ministry of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs and Local Government, in collaboration with local investor Piero Zippoli

The significance of Carriacou’s Boat Building Tradition

• Rooted in the 19th century, when Scottish shipbuilders introduced their craft to Windward, boat building has remained a proud community tradition
• It continues to unite communities during vessel launches, where knowledge, culture, and celebration are shared
• In recognition of its importance, Carriacou and Petite Martinique’s traditional boat building is inscribed on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage

Benefits of the project

• Preservation of skills: Safeguards and passes on traditional knowledge to future generations.
• Economic opportunities: The vessel’s construction and international voyage are expected to generate income, attract tourism, and stimulate the local economy
• Cultural exchange: Strengthens ties between Carriacou and Europe, while promoting global appreciation of Grenada’s maritime heritage

Ministry of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs