Classic Carolina Boats

Harrison Boatworks

My name is Patrick Harrison and I build custom boats with a craftman's eye for excellence and perfection.

While I've specialized in building Carolina sportfishing yachts, custom center console and express sportfishing boats, and custom shallow-draft fishing and hunting skiffs, I am excited about the possibility of building many different types and sizes of boats.

Inspired by the classic Carolina boats of Warren O'Neal and Sportsman Boats, I build boats with classic lines, proven economical design and a seaworthy, comfortable ride.

Hand-crafting

At Harrison Boatworks, all design work, lofting and jigs are done in house. I forgo the trend of using CAD design and a C&C jig, not due to lack of sophistication or to save money but by choice because I truly love of the craft of boat building and lofting.

From designing on paper to lofting on the shop floor to fairing and glassing to finishing the interior, I enjoy each step of the process and personally build every aspect of a Harrison Boatworks boat.

Customized Design

Harrison Boatworks is a small operation, and each customer has the opportunity for the highly customized boat of his or her dreams. I consider each boat an individual creation dedicated to the individual client's needs. Our customers have the ability to design the elements of their boats that are important to them, from the fishbox location to the position of the console to selecting the perfect figured board for the cabinet doors.

About Us

I started building boats in 1994 after earning a BFA in fine woodworking from East Carolina University. The first boat I worked on was the 65-foot Rapscallion by Robin Smith Boatworks, another small operation where I was fortunate to be involved in just about every step of the process. Renowned boatbuilder Robin Smith took a great deal of time to both teach and challenge me through every process, from lofting to finish work, and he continues to advise me in some of my boat designs.

Mechanical Engineer and Design Collaborator Bob Vlcek brings another valuable dimension to the Harrison Boatworks product. As a seasoned captain, fisherman and Coast Guardsman, Bob has vast experience with the upkeep, maintenance and inner-workings of every aspect of boats.

Construction

Our boats are cold-molded, producing models that are light and strong. I use okoume plywood and bi-axle fiberglass to ensure extra strength. Click here for more detail on our Construction Process.

I am a hands-on builder who works with my clients one-on-one to create the boat of their dreams.