Dodson Boatyard continually searches for ways to be more efficient. One of its more recent efforts has been to establish its own in-house sail and canvas care operation. Thirty year sail industry veteran John Lucey agreed to sign on and set-up this new extension of Dodson’s full-service offerings and initiated it in 2015. With John’s help, Dodson Boatyard purchased the shop inventory from Halsey/Evolution Sails, which had ceased operations, in order to provide the necessary equipment with which to get up and running. It is important to point out that Dodson Sail Care extends beyond the actual necessary maintenance of sails and canvas. Typically the service begins in the fall during the decommissioning process. John and his team are assigned the task of removing a boat’s sail and canvas inventory (sails, dodgers, biminis, sail and brightwork covers, etc.) During this process all items are inspected, digitally photographed, and noted for any immediate or preventative maintenance repairs. A report is then generated, shared, and discussed with the owner. Work is thus scheduled in a timely manner. All repair and cleaning work is completed at a dedicated section in one of Dodson Boatyard Hopkinton, Rhode Island sheds. The last phase of this service occurs when John and his team reinstall the sails and canvas at spring commissioning. After two seasons in operation, we have received enthusiastic feedback from our customers regarding both the quality of work performed as well as the efficiencies (including cost savings) of the operation. Finally, Dodson Sail Care does not build new sails or canvas products. We are pleased to continue to work with each customer’s preferred choice of a sail and canvas loft.
Sail care in Dodson's Hopkinton, Rhode Island facilities.