“Between Wood and Water” is a documentary following the journey of Dorothy, Canada’s oldest functioning wooden sailboat, and her restoration. This 30-ft vessel has a beautiful shape with European lines that excited attention wherever she went.

Over the past 10 years, Dorothy underwent a full refit at the Ladysmith Maritime Society, after a structural restoration by shipwright Tony Grove for the Maritime Museum of B.C.

BIG NEWS! Dorothy is re-launching May 27, 2023 in Ladysmith Harbour.

The Film “Between Wood and Water”

The film chronicles the lasting love affair between this wooden sailboat and the men and women who have saved her from peril many times over her 125 +year existence. Chemistry, care and magic is required to balance a living wooden boat. Dorothy has lived in the uncertain space “between wood and water” for over 20 years. Now, after the heroic efforts of a small group of committed boat lovers and wood wizards, she is finally ready to return to water, and sail as a proud ambassador for maritime heritage on this coast.

The film is produced and directed by Tobi Elliott for Arise Enterprises.

BETWEEN WOOD AND WATER (format 3 x 22 min episodes live-action drama + recreation) is still looking for a broadcaster but will consider online distribution. Check out our Youtube Channel!

a postcard of Dorothy the wooden sailboat in the water
a postcard of Dorothy the wooden sailboat in the water

Help Us Tell the Story of the Dorothy the Wooden Sailboat

Filmmaker Tobi Elliott has spent over 10 years documenting the restoration of Dorothy on Gabriola Island, BC. This independent production has operated on a shoestring budget but has great potential for broadcast.

We’ve managed to raise over $8k in crowdfunding which has supported some hard costs. We are also lucky to have support from the Canadian National Film Board of Canada (NFB).

Selling T-shirts, calendars and promoting the story through live events has kept Dorothy’s story alive after all these years. A big THANK YOU to all our wonderful supporters and those cheering us on!

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We can use this list of subscribers to show broadcasters there is an audience who wants to hear Dorothy’s story.

Happy Sailing, Tobi Elliott, and the Dorothy Crew.