Get Ready to Splash: Acorn to Arabella Launches Tomorrow

The culmination of an extraordinary endeavor is finally upon us as Acorn to Arabella prepares for its long-awaited splash day, tomorrow, June 17, 2023, at Mattapoisett's Shipyard Park in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts. This remarkable event marks the realization of a dream that began many years ago, fueled by passion, dedication, and a commitment to craftsmanship.

There is something truly special about embarking on a project that challenges your skills, pushes your limits, and captures the imaginations of thousands of people around the world. Such is the case with Steve Denette and the entire Acorn to Arabella crew, which has chronicled the inspiring journey of building Arabella, a 38’ wooden sailboat from scratch.

Building Arabella meant more than simply assembling a boat; it was a labor of love undertaken in Steve’s very own front yard. Nearly all of the lumber used on the boat was harvested from his property, with boards milled on a small portable sawmill. Every step of the construction process has been documented on his YouTube channel, inviting viewers to witness the triumphs, challenges and sheer joy of creating something so extraordinary. One standout moment that gained immense attention on YouTube was when they foraged for and handled a staggering 4.5 tons of scrap lead to create a ballast keel for Arabella. The video capturing their creation of a smelter and the pouring of molten lead into a mold became an instant hit, showcasing their resourcefulness and ingenuity.

But, the journey didn’t stop there. Acorn to Arabella continued to captivate audiences with their skills and creativity. With each video, Steve and crew demonstrated their dedication and passion they poured into this project. Acorn to Arabella has been more than just a YouTube channel documenting a boat build. It has become a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a dream. Through their shared experiences, Steve and everyone involved in this build have created a global community of like-minded individuals who believe in the beauty of craftsmanship and the transformative power of embarking on a journey that pushes the boundaries of possibility.

As launch day approaches, the excitement surrounding Arabella’s completion is palpable. Steve and the entire Acorn to Arabella community eagerly anticipate the celebrations that will take place this weekend. Located at Mattapoisett’s Shipyard Park in Massachusetts, the launch event promises to be an incredible gathering of fans, supporters, community members, Patreon contributors, and subscribers alike with tours, food trucks, and an A2A booth!

So mark your calendars and join the festivities that begin on Saturday, June 17 at 10am as we all welcome Arabella to the water for the first time. For the full schedule, parking information and launch location, please visit Acorn to Arabella's Launch Information. Come witness the beauty of a wooden sailboat crafted with love, the power of a community unite by a shared passion, and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to dream and make those dreams a reality. Acorn to Arabella has shown us the way, and now, it’s time to set sail!