Description
The Bolger Peapod (commonly known as Sweet Pea) is a modern, plywood adaptation of the traditional Maine peapod—a classic double-ender originally used by lobstermen for its ability to row in either direction and handle coastal waters. Phil Bolger's version, developed in collaboration with builder Harold "Dynamite" Payson, lightens the traditional heavy plank-on-frame design while retaining excellent rowing performance, stability, and seaworthiness—making it an "Instant Boat" ideal for amateur builders seeking a capable, no-frills rowing (and optional sailing) tender or daysailer.
Designer: Phil Bolger (with input from Harold "Dynamite" Payson, who requested a lighter, more stable peapod he could row standing up facing forward, inspired by his lobster-tending days off Metinic Island).
Year of Introduction: Late 1980s/early 1990s (featured in Payson's book Instant Boatbuilding with Dynamite Payson and related publications; part of Bolger's "Instant Boats" series from his long collaboration with Payson starting in the 1970s).
Production History: Not factory-built; plans-only for home or small-shop construction using stitch-and-glue or taped-seam plywood methods (simple, fast "instant boat" approach with minimal lofting/jigging). Featured prominently in Payson's books and sold through his company (instantboats.com) and other sources like Duckworks or WoodenBoat. It's one of Bolger's practical, evolving designs—refined over years for ease of build, low cost, and functional performance. Many examples built worldwide, with strong praise in wooden boat communities for its rowing prowess and versatility.
