Leroy Jethro Gibbs, portrayed by Mark Harmon, is a central character in the long-running television series *NCIS*. One of his most notable hobbies throughout the series has been building boats in his basement. This quirky pastime has become a defining characteristic of his persona, leading fans to wonder just how many boats he has actually built over the course of the show.
Gibbs' boat-building hobby is not merely a plot device; it serves to deepen our understanding of his character. His meticulous craftsmanship reflects his disciplined nature and provides a rare glimpse into his personal life. While he is often seen as a tough and stoic leader, the act of building boats reveals a more introspective side. Over the years, Gibbs has constructed a total of eight boats, with varying degrees of significance and backstory attached to each one.
| Boat Name | Details |
|---|---|
| The Kelly | Named after his daughter, met a tragic fate. |
| Rule 91 | Exploded in the Season 18 finale. |
| Rule 51 | Revealed how he gets boats out of the basement. |
The mystery surrounding how Gibbs manages to get these boats out of his basement has been a running gag throughout the series. Fans have speculated various theories, from movable walls to pulley systems, but the truth remained elusive for many seasons.
The Boats Built by Gibbs
Gibbs' boat-building journey began before the events of *NCIS* and continued throughout its lengthy run. Here’s a closer look at some of the notable boats he built:
- The Kelly: This boat was named after Gibbs' daughter, Kelly. It serves as a poignant reminder of his past and the tragedy that befell his family. The Kelly was ultimately found adrift at sea with two dead bodies aboard, marking a dark chapter in Gibbs' life.
- Rule 91: This boat became significant in later seasons, especially during Season 18 when it was destroyed in an explosion. The name "Rule 91" refers to one of Gibbs' personal rules: "When you decide to walk away, don’t look back." This rule encapsulates Gibbs' philosophy and was particularly relevant during his tumultuous journey in the show.
- Rule 51: In Season 19, it was humorously revealed that Gibbs simply removed bricks from his basement wall to get this boat out. This straightforward solution poked fun at the elaborate theories fans had concocted over the years.
Gibbs’ connection to these boats goes beyond mere construction; they symbolize his relationships and experiences. Each vessel carries its own story and emotional weight, contributing to the overall narrative arc of Gibbs as a character.
The Significance of Boat Building
The act of building boats serves multiple purposes for Gibbs. It acts as a therapeutic outlet for him amidst the chaos of his job as an NCIS agent. The meticulous nature of woodworking allows him to focus and find peace, contrasting with the often chaotic world he operates in as a federal agent.
Moreover, Gibbs’ choice not to use power tools emphasizes his dedication to craftsmanship and tradition. He builds each boat by hand, which speaks volumes about his character—he values hard work and patience over shortcuts or modern conveniences.
The boats also serve as metaphors for Gibbs’ relationships. For example, naming a boat after someone often foreshadows tragedy or loss in that relationship. The Kelly represents not only his daughter but also the pain he carries from losing her and her mother.
The Mystery of Getting Boats Out
One of the most entertaining aspects of Gibbs’ boat-building hobby is the enduring mystery surrounding how he gets these large vessels out of his basement. For years, this question remained unanswered within the show, leading to various fan theories that ranged from plausible to absurd.
In Season 19's episode titled "The Great Wide Open," this long-standing mystery was finally addressed. It was revealed that Gibbs simply broke down part of his basement wall to allow for the boat's exit. This revelation was both humorous and fitting for Gibbs' straightforward character—he took a no-nonsense approach to solving what had become an almost mythical question among fans.
This moment served not only as comic relief but also as a nod to the show's ability to maintain long-running jokes while still delivering satisfying conclusions.
Conclusion
Gibbs' hobby of building boats has added depth to his character throughout *NCIS*. With eight boats constructed over the series' run, each vessel tells its own story while reflecting different aspects of Gibbs' life and personality. The resolution regarding how he gets these boats out adds an amusing layer to an already rich narrative tapestry.
As *NCIS* continues without Mark Harmon’s presence as Gibbs, fans will undoubtedly miss both his character's complex backstory and his unique hobby that provided insight into who he is beyond being an NCIS agent.
FAQs About How Many Boats Did Gibbs Build On NCIS
- How many boats did Gibbs build on NCIS?
Gibbs built a total of eight boats throughout the series. - What is Rule 91?
Rule 91 is one of Gibbs' personal rules: "When you decide to walk away, don't look back." - What happened to The Kelly?
The Kelly was found adrift at sea with two dead bodies aboard. - How did NCIS reveal how Gibbs got his boat out?
It was revealed that he simply broke down part of the wall in his basement. - What does boat building symbolize for Gibbs?
Boat building symbolizes both therapy for him and reflects significant relationships in his life.