Brian Stevens truly tackled a boatload of work when he decided on the subject of his senior project at Annapolis Area Christian School in Severn.

But after spending about 200 hours in a workshop to build a 15 ½-foot flat-bottomed skiff from scratch, the Arnold resident couldn't be happier with his choice. And his friends are excited, too. In fact, a list is already forming for rides to go fishing and crabbing.

Brian, 18, worked on the boat with his father, Mark, who has crafted similar vessels before. The teen said the experience was not only a valuable learning experience, but also a great way to bond with his father. He...