After 45 Years, Bear Mountain Boats Is Closing

Bear Mountain Boats, owned by Joan Barrett and Ted Moores, is a well known name in the canoeing (and classic boat) community. Anyone looking to build their own cedar strip canoe would look no further than the book Canoecraft by Ted himself that not only explained how-to in great detail, but taught you to take pride in craftsmanship. After 45 years of workshops, creating canoe kits and drafting canoe plans, they have announced that they have closed…

“Sept 1, 2023. A significant day for Ted and I and all who have been involved with Bear Mountain Boats over the years.
After 45 years building and restoring boats, teaching classes and producing books and materials for aspiring boat builders worldwide, we have closed our large workshop and passed on our resources. Noah’s Marine in Toronto will continue to sell our plans, books and materials. Andrew Lee and his crew at Sirens Boatworks in Merrickville, Ontario have taken the majority of our tools and jigs to supplement their workshop. John Hendren at John’s Little Boat Shop near Peterborough is building the legendary sprint racing canoes for the clubs across Canada. Ted and I will continue to provide support to boat builders. I have taken on the sales of our little dragon boat called the Dragonfly which is manufactured by Nova Craft Canoe in London, On.

We hope to live with a little less pressure and have some time to visit friends.
Thanks to everyone who believed in us.
with love.”

— Joan and Ted