Our Story and Mission

T.J. McDermott IV is the originator and owner of Bone Island Boatworks., the founder of Key Education, Inc. and is a board member of the Key West Maritime Historical Society. He has over 17 years of boat building experience and has honed his skills by building high tech carbon fiber racing yachts, such as America True, which represented the U.S.A. in the 2000 America's Cup race.

Upon relocating to Key West, T.J. observed the need to assist those who have a true, intrinsic love of sailing and boating. Bone Island Boatworks was established three years ago and aims to service those in the boating world by providing custom woodworking, boatbuilding, customized products, as well as, instruction for those interested in learning the craft for themselves.

Bone Island Boatworks not only has the desire to assist those already in the sailing world, but we further our mission by introducing our love of boatbuilding and sailing to those of all ages through our annual Family Boatbuilding event, as well as through the newly established non-profit, Key Education, Inc., which promotes Adventure Education.