’Tis the Season for TMB

For those who knew my dad, you’ll remember he was one of the finest boat builders of his time. Throughout the 1980s, 90s, and early 2000s, he crafted sport fishing boats that became icons of their era. His final masterpiece was Dinky, a 24‑foot miniature version of those legendary vessels. After his passing, she became ours to care for.

At just 15 years old, I didn’t quite understand how to care for such a remarkable piece of art. Built in 2001, she’s already undergone two makeovers, and it’s hard to believe she’s now approaching 25 years old.

Over the years, there were times when she was polished and gliding across the water, and times when she sat neglected. Since my move to California in 2013, Dinky has been waiting patiently to return to the sea.

As with any wooden boat, upkeep is constant. Today, she needs another restoration- the transom is beginning to rot. Her last major makeover was in 2012, when I was working at Bayliss Boatworks. Back then, I was fortunate to have the guidance and resources to keep costs manageable. This time, things are different, and rising expenses have made it difficult to get the project moving.

My plan is to repair the transom, repaint her, ship her to California, and bring her back to life on the water.

Looking ahead, my long‑term plan is to earn my captain’s license and take people out on whale‑watching, fishing, and surf adventures.

But restoring Dinky is more than just a project. It’s a chance to preserve my father’s legacy—a story of skill, family, and tradition—and to keep his craftsmanship alive for future generations.

The Legacy of Taylor Harrison

My dad, Taylor Harrison, was a true Outer Banks legend. For those who may not know, the Outer Banks is a small barrier island off the coast of North Carolina, steeped in the history of fishing and watermen. And that’s exactly what my father was—a waterman.

As a kid, I have vivid memories of holding tight to his shoulders as we dove deep, exploring shipwrecks and riding waves together. He was not only my father, but also my best friend, a pillar of the community, and an extraordinarily gifted craftsman.

He designed and built world-class fishing boats entirely by hand. Long before computers or AI-generated plans, his visions came to life through rulers, compasses, and the simple tools of craftsmanship- chisels, hammers, planes, and saws. He worked with his mind, his heart, his eye, and his hands. In doing so, he gave us more than boats; he gave us memories that remain to this day.

Though he passed when I was only fifteen, in those short years, he showed me how to be a man- not through words alone, but by example. He was, and still is, my greatest teacher. His smile, his laughter, his gentle, caring presence live on through me, through my sister, through the waves, and through everyone who knew him.

I feel honored to be his son and to do my best to live up to his potential.

How you can support:

I’m reaching out for support to restore Dinky and bring her out west, so my dad’s legacy can continue on the open seas.

Every contribution brings her one step closer to gliding on the water again. Your support helps cover the cost of repairing her transom, repainting, and transporting her west to California.

Here are some ways you’ll be part of the journey:

Be part of the legacy — Your name will be honored as someone who helped preserve the craftsmanship, family, and tradition of Taylor Made Boats.

Follow the journey — I’ll share updates, photos, and stories as Dinky is restored and relaunched.

Celebrate together — Whether near or far, you’ll be included in the relaunch through updates, livestreams, and shared memories.

Keep the tradition alive — Your support ensures that my dad’s legacy continues to inspire future generations on the water.

No raffles, sweepstakes, giveaways, or returns on investment are offered in exchange for any donations made to this GoFundMe.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for supporting a project that means so much to me, my family, and everyone touched by my father’s work. Together, we can bring Dinky back to the water and keep Taylor Harrison’s legacy alive.

In gratitude,

Alex