The History, Use and Heritage
It all begins with an idea.
What Is a Punt?
A punt is a flat-bottomed boat with a squared bow, designed for shallow water navigation. Traditionally propelled by a pole, punts offer quiet, stable movement through marshes, rivers, and wetlands. The term likely comes from the Latin pontus, meaning “flat-bottomed boat” or “bridge.”
Punt boats first appeared in medieval England, likely in the 1200s, where they were used for transporting cargo, fishing, and waterfowl hunting. Their flat base and lack of keel made them ideal for shallow rivers and estuaries.
What Is a Swamp Punt?
A swamp punt is a regional variation of the punt boat, built for navigating dense wetlands and flooded timber. Common in the American South, these boats were crafted from local woods like cypress and cedar, and used for trapping, fishing, and hunting. Their low profile and quiet propulsion made them ideal for stealth in the swamp.
How can you enjoy a Webb Punt Boat?
The Webb Swamp Punt Boat is a very versatile boat. You can consider it a pick-up truck for the back waters. You can sit, you can stand, you can paddle or you can push pole the boat. Or with the rowing and sculling model, you can either row or scull the boat.
The Swamp Punt Boat can lead excursions with canoes, paddle boards and kayaks by carrying all of the supplies needed for a good outing or camping trip. It is as quiet as any of these other crafts and can go into the same places making it a perfect companion for a group outing.
The Webb Swamp Punt Boat is great for getting into hard to get to ponds, creeks, swamps, marshes, and any other shallow and calm water places. It is a stable platform for standing while exploring, fishing or hunting. It allows seating for up to four persons allowing for all to enjoy the trip.
Heritage Statement
Webb Punt Boats honors the legacy of American craftsmanship and waterway tradition. From the quiet resilience of swamp punts to the enduring utility of flat-bottomed workboats, our designs reflect a deep respect for nature, family, and heritage. Each boat is a tribute to the ingenuity of those who shaped their lives around the water—and a promise to carry that legacy forward.