
Good Jibes #133: Jeff Rutherford on Wooden Boat Restoration
This week’s host, John Arndt, is joined by Jeff Rutherford to chat about all things wooden boat restoration. Jeff is a wooden boat restoration specialist who’s been bringing classics back to life since 1982.

Hear about Jeff’s journey of starting out as an island trader, the dues he paid to eventually start his own business, his favorite boat projects, how the technology has changed over the years, and how we can generate more interest in older boats.
This episode covers everything from wooden boats to sailing tech. Here’s a small sample of what you will hear:
- How was Jeff’s time as an island trader?
- What type of dockside work did he do?
- How did he get interested in building boats?
- What are his favorite boat projects?
- How has wooden boatbuilding changed over the years?
- Who will step in when Jeff’s retired?
- How do we keep people interested in wooden boats?
- Short Tacks: Does Jeff have a favorite varnish?
Learn more at RutherfordBoats.com.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your other favorite podcast spots — follow and leave a 5-star review if you’re feeling the Good Jibes!