Leroy Jethro Gibbs, portrayed by Mark Harmon, is a central character in the long-running television series *NCIS*. One of his most distinctive traits is his passion for building boats. This hobby has not only become a significant part of his character but also a recurring theme throughout the series. Over the course of *NCIS*, Gibbs has built a total of eight boats that are acknowledged within the show’s narrative. This includes three boats constructed before the series began and several others that he worked on during various seasons.
| Boat Name | Details |
|---|---|
| The Kelly | Named after his daughter, a Glen-L Amigo sailboat. |
| Rule 91 | Built during Season 18, named after one of Gibbs’ rules. |
| Chickadee | A Barrelback motorboat, built in memory of his father. |
Gibbs’ boat-building hobby is not merely a pastime; it reflects deeper emotional connections and serves as a form of therapy for him. Each boat often symbolizes significant relationships or memories in his life, making them integral to understanding his character’s backstory and emotional landscape.
The Significance of Gibbs’ Boats
Gibbs’ boats are more than just wooden structures; they represent his past, his losses, and his coping mechanisms. For instance, The Kelly, named after his deceased daughter, was an emotional project for him. It was intended as a tribute but ended up being lost at sea under tragic circumstances. This loss parallels Gibbs’ own experiences with grief and loss, particularly related to his family.
Additionally, Gibbs names many of his boats after important figures in his life. This practice often leads to ironic or tragic outcomes within the narrative. For example, after naming a boat after his second wife Diane, he later had to destroy it following their divorce. These narrative choices highlight the complex interplay between Gibbs’ personal history and his current life as an investigator.
Gibbs’ choice to build boats by hand rather than using power tools also speaks volumes about his character. It showcases his patience, craftsmanship, and desire for authenticity in a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable. The act of creating something tangible allows him to exert control over aspects of his life that feel uncontrollable.
The Mystery of Boat Removal
One of the longest-running jokes among *NCIS* fans has been the mystery surrounding how Gibbs manages to get these large boats out of his basement. The basement workshop is depicted with only one small door, making it seemingly impossible for full-sized boats to exit without some sort of magical intervention.
Over the years, fans have speculated various theories about this conundrum. Some suggested that he might use movable walls or even have hidden tunnels leading out from his house. This ongoing mystery became a humorous element within the show itself, with characters occasionally referencing it in dialogue.
In Season 19, however, the show finally addressed this question directly. It was revealed that Gibbs simply breaks through the basement wall to remove each completed boat and then bricks it back up afterward. This revelation adds a layer of absurdity to the already quirky nature of Gibbs’ character while providing closure to a question that had puzzled viewers for years.
The Boats Built Throughout NCIS
Throughout its long run, *NCIS* has showcased several boats built by Gibbs. Here’s a brief overview:
- The Kelly: A Glen-L Amigo sailboat named after Gibbs’ daughter.
- Rule 91: Named after one of Gibbs’ rules about moving on; it was featured prominently in Season 18.
- Chickadee: A Barrelback motorboat built in honor of Gibbs’ father.
These boats serve as physical manifestations of Gibbs’ emotional journey throughout the series. Each vessel carries its own story and significance, contributing to the depth of Gibbs as a character.
Character Development Through Boat Building
Gibbs’ boat-building hobby serves as a critical tool for character development throughout *NCIS*. His dedication to this craft reveals much about who he is—his patience, attention to detail, and emotional struggles are all encapsulated in this pastime.
In many ways, building boats allows Gibbs to process grief and loss. The act itself is meditative; it requires focus and commitment. As he works on each project, viewers gain insight into his internal world—his regrets, hopes, and desires.
Moreover, the boats often symbolize new beginnings or unresolved issues in Gibbs’ life. For instance, when he builds Rule 91, it signifies a turning point for him as he navigates personal challenges while still being tied to his past through memories associated with previous boats.
FAQs About How Many Boats Gibbs Built on NCIS
- How many boats has Gibbs built on NCIS?
Gibbs has built a total of eight boats throughout the series. - What is the significance of the name “The Kelly”?
The Kelly is named after Gibbs’ daughter who died tragically. - How does Gibbs get the boats out of his basement?
He breaks through the wall each time he completes a boat and then repairs it afterward. - What type of boat is Rule 91?
Rule 91 is named after one of Gibbs’ personal rules and was featured in Season 18. - Are there any other notable boats built by Gibbs?
Yes, Chickadee is another significant boat built in memory of his father.
In conclusion, Leroy Jethro Gibbs’ boat-building hobby serves multiple purposes within *NCIS*. It reflects his character’s depth and complexity while also providing viewers with insight into his emotional struggles and relationships. Each boat tells its own story—one filled with love, loss, and resilience—making them an integral part of both the narrative and Gibbs himself.