I recently decided to replace my bowsprit as the old one had gained a little rot in the top surface (due to poor maintenance by previous owner). I decided to take two lines of action. The first was to repair the existing Bowsprit which was a job that initially caused me some apprehension (hence the second approach as well!) but, eventually, turned out to be a real success. By using an adaptation of a scarf box I was able to remove the damaged area (approx 13mm deep) and replace this with "new" pine, fixed using epoxy glue. I actually used the back of an old church pew (!) but the outcome looks really good and the bowsprit is now fully serviceable and available for sale if anyone needs a replacement? You could look on it as having the Lord on your side?! (or on your bowsprit).
As I said earlier, I decided to undertake two solutions and my second was to purchase a length of Douglas Fir from a local specialist timber merchant. I then found a local master craftsman and wood turner who turned me a new bowsprit (not easy to find someone to turn a piece of wood 8ft long!!). The result is quite magnificent - see picture. In fact the piece of timber I used was enough to make two bowsprits so I now have a surplus piece of quality timber available for sale if anyone is interested? In fact I would be happy to have a new bowsprit turned for someone which, with material costs, should come in at less than £150 all in. If anyone is interested in this please contact me.