Boat Donation Guidelines

The Landing School is grateful for community interest in supporting our educational mission through boat donations. To ensure alignment with our curriculum and instructional goals, all donated vessels must meet the following criteria.

Required Criteria 
We can only accept boats that meet all of the following conditions:

  • Construction: Fiberglass only – solid glass hulls are strongly preferred

  • Size & Transport: On a trailer with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 10,000 lbs or less (combined trailer and vessel weight)

  • Length: No longer than 30 feet, ideally closer to 20 feet

  • Systems: Must include, or require installation of:

    • DC electrical systems

    • Hull piping

    • Dewatering systems (e.g., bilge pumps)

  • Resale Potential: Boat must have a realistic resale market; we cannot accept highly customized or unusual vessels that are difficult to repurpose or sell

Note: Vessels similar to the "Mako" format are ideal.


Preferred Features 
While not required, the following features enhance the instructional value of a donated boat:

  • Windlass and/or bow thruster

  • Marine electronics (GPS, radar, etc.)

  • Hydraulic systems

  • Freshwater (potable), blackwater, or graywater plumbing

  • Structural repairs needed (e.g., rotted decks, stringers, or transoms – powerboats only)

  • Outboard or inboard motors (even if nonfunctional – useful for tear-down labs)

 

Sailboat Criteria
We are extremely selective about sailboats due to space and instructional limitations. Sailboat donations must meet the following criteria:

  • Type: Solid fiberglass "classic plastic" designs only (e.g., Triton, Cape Dory) – vessels with a strong following or resale market

  • Rigging & Sails: Must be in good condition and thoroughly inspected prior to acceptance

  • Engine: Must include an inboard motor

  • Quantity Limit: We will not accept more than 1–2 sailboats at any time

  • Spars: No wooden spars unless they are in above-average condition

 

How to Submit a Donation Offer
If you believe your vessel meets the criteria listed above, please email us at rking@landingschool.edu with:

  • Photos of the vessel (including hull, interior, engine, and trailer)

  • A brief description of its condition

  • Confirmation of title/ownership

  • Any known issues or required repairs

We will review your submission and respond as soon as possible. Thank you for supporting hands-on marine education at The Landing School!