Welcome back for our 2021 edition of the Pacific Northwest ACBS chapter virtual boat show!  Here is a selection of boats from several Northwest ACBS chapter's.  This year's group has vessels as early as 1913 and as long as 47 feet.  Please take the time to look over this collection of fine boats and be sure to send your vote for Skipper's and People choice awardsVoting entries are due by August 11th 2021.

Oh, you're going to be here a while, so freshen up your coffee, take that bathroom break, you'll need those speakers on and get ready to do a lot of viewing.  Enjoy!

She's Beautiful

She has spent her whole life in the PNW starting new in Tri Cities, and then spending 40 plus years on Lake Union, then up to Lake Whatcom, where she underwent a complete restoration completed in 2002. 

 

Around 2015 she went to Lake Sammamish, and she found me last fall and will spend the next era of her life in Olympia.  She’s in amazing condition, and with a few coats of varnish will be “Bristol”. 

 

Jeff & Sue Reiner - Cooper Point, Olympia

Idle Rich  

Maybe next year, the perennial cry of Cubs fans! Idle Rich is a 1956 14’ mahogany plywood outboard runabout. She spent most of her life in a North Carolina barn. Designed and built in Newton, North Carolina by Dixie Boat Works founder, designer and owner, Melvin Little. She is powered by a 1956 30 hp Johnson Javelin outboard.

 

I had the privilege of meeting Melvin and tooling around with him in Idle Rich on NC’s Lake Norman. At that time, he was retired and living the good life. As the day on Lake Norman drew to a close, I let him know there was one more thing he needed to do. He looked at me rather puzzled as I told him I wanted him to autograph my boat. He happily obliged. So, I may have one of the few designer autographed boats in the country.

 

Melvin grew up in NC but raced early hydroplanes in New England. His competitors described Mel and his buddies as “those Dixie boys”, hence the name Dixie Boat Works. He described those early hydroplanes as a piece of plywood with a 10 hp Mercury attached.

 

I located Idle Rich in 2000 in a North Carolina barn where she had happily lived for about 40 years. Other than 40 years of dust, she was amazingly sound, needing only cleaning and fresh paint and varnish. Boat titles were an inconvenience in NC in 1956, so I had to work with North Carolina and Washington officials to get her properly titled and registered here.

 

For those who are unaware, the Javelin was the flagship Johnson motor of 1956, featuring “extra” chrome trim. Johnson took their 25 hp motor from 1955 and bored it out to make the Javelin, thus adding 5 hp. It is considered one of the most collectable and beautiful outboards of that era. She is currently in Toronto, Ontario, Canada where she has been completely restored by Silver Marine ( www.old-outboard.com). I say maybe next year because I don’t trust that gem to be safely shipped and, because of Canada’s strict entry rules, I am unsure when I can pick her up. Future plans for Idle Rich call for new paint and varnish, a custom cover, reupholstering the cockpit bumper and seat cushions and backs. My hope is to show her off at Lake Coeur d’Alene this fall. Stay tuned.

 

Rich Halbert - Pacific Northwest Chapter

Slyder

Randy and Jim Mohn of Lakeside, Mt. are the current custodians of this 1960 Century Palomino.

Randys parents, Spence & Alice Ryder, purchased the boat off the showroom floor at Cox’s Services Boat Company (now Flathead Harbor) in Lakeside, MT in 1960. The boat was then docked at the Ryder place on Marco Bay on Flathead Lake until 1980. At that time she was “sold” to Ryders nephew Brian Slater who conducted a restoration completed in 1986. The boat and Brian were featured on the cover of the October 1989 issue of Nor’westing magazine.

Before Brian died, in December 2009 after a 5 year battle with cancer, he wanted the boat returned to the family on Flathead Lake.

In 2010, Classic Company Boat Works in Somers restored her seaworthiness and Lee Marine of Somers is the source of new motivation.

Slyder is a family heirloom and the current caretakers have fond memories of themselves, family and friends as well as many employees of the Anderson Theater Co., in Kalispell MT, riding in and skiing behind this little boat in her early years.

PS: Ryder/Slater =Slyder


The photos include our Show Photo by Wes Yant on Whitefish Lake during WWW VII, First day of launch with the Great Grandson of the original owner at the helm. A Bigfork Eagle photo of the family at the Big Sky ACBS Show on Flathead Lake in 2013 and finally the "Nor Westing Cover" of 1989.

Jim Mohn - Lakeside, MT

Shady Lady

The Shady Lady is a 1955 22’ Chris-Craft Continental Sedan Hardtop.  She is powered by the original 200 HP Chrysler Imperial Special M45S (Hemi) engine.  The Continental model line was introduced in 1955 as Chris-Craft’s top-of-the-line utility.  There were 102 22’ Continentals built in 1955, the only year the 22’ Continental was built. Of those 102 Continentals, 28 were equipped with the 200 HP Hemi engine and 20 were built with the sedan hardtop option.   Only three were built with both the Hemi and sedan hardtop options.  


A search of all the relevant classic boat records shows no other 1955 22’ Continental Sedan Hardtops.  The Shady Lady is believed to be the only one of the three built in 1955 still on the water.  


The boat shipped from the Chris-Craft Cadillac, Michigan factory to John G. Rapp, Chris-Craft Dealer in San Francisco, CA, on June 14, 1955.  She had a complete makeover in the mid-80’s, had a West System bottom installed in the mid-90’s, was refinished in 2011 and 2014 and had the engine rebuilt in 2013.  She is a "preserved" classic boat, meaning that she still has over 60% of her original wood.

The Shady Lady came to Montana from Indian Lake, PA in 2010 and has had 8 owners in her lifetime.  In the past, she has gone by the names Happy Times and The Boat.  She was reportedly used for illegal activities in the Sacramento Delta area in the 1970’s.  With her signature hardtop and the legend of her illicit past, it was only fitting to re-christen her the Shady Lady on June 14, 2010, her 55th birthday. 

Tim Salt - Whitefish, MT

Reminisce

A year after selling our 1941 Chris Craft Cruiser we started to get the itch for a saltwater replacement.  This time it would have to be moored in salt water closer to our Spencer Lake home, have creature comforts, a straight inboard single engine, be fiberglass and, of course, be a Chris Craft.  After two years of searching, including flying to Minneapolis and driving to Redding, CA, in search of the right boat, I decided to try a "Wanted to Buy" ad on Craigslist.  The first picture is the one we posted online with a "Wanted to Buy" ad for an 80's 28 ft 280 Chris Craft Catalina.  Within days I received a call from a guy in Kalama, WA, for one that was available.  We were a day away from owning that boat when the owner announced that he wanted an additional $500 for his time to haul the boat for an inspection that would have been paid by the buyer.  I told him that was not going to happen, to which he replied, "Good luck finding another one."  I left the ad up and a week later I received another phone call.  This one was from a nice fellow in Tacoma whose boat turned out to be a much nicer vessel.  After an inspection and haul out, we consummated the deal and the following day we motored "Reminisce" (her planned new name)  to our new moorage in Port Orchard, WA.  

Karl & Lois Hoffman

Glacier Chaser 

Deb and I began our wood boat journey with the purchase of Shady Lady, our 1955 Chris Craft Sedan Hardtop, in 2010.  We have loved every aspect of wood boating and the friendships we have made but always felt like we were missing out on one important aspect of the hobby.  I wanted the experience of restoring a boat.  Except for rebuilding the engine in the Shady Lady, we have had to farm out all of the other work.  We just did not have the space to work on the Shady Lady.  We had two choices, build a boat barn or get a smaller boat.   We chose the latter.  


Glacier Chaser is a 1951 Lyman 15' outboard.  She was shipped from the Sandusky OH Lyman plant to Stan Craft Boats, the local Lyman dealer in Somers MT, on July 11, 1951.  Little is known about her early history.  In the 1980's, the boat was acquired by the Glacier Boat Company in Glacier National Park and used as a chase boat in support of the tour boat operations, ergo the name, Glacier Chaser.  It is also a tip-of-the-hat to one of the early lift chairs of that same name on the local ski hill on Big Mountain. We acquired the boat after 25 years of storage and began restoration in 2015.  Glacier Chaser was shipped as a Fisherman with bench seats and no steering wheel and, after 1500 hours of labor, restored as a top-of-the-line Runabout.  She was completed in June of 2018 just hours before entry in her first show where she won the Captain’s Choice Award.  

Tim & Deb Salt - Whitefish, MT

Beautiful Day

1948 20’ Chris Craft Custom, R-20-306

Member Ike Kielgass found a custom I could afford for $1000! He actually found three. He got all the chrome pieces, I did not. Even the rare folding windshield was missing. With help from members across the country, I found all the hardware.

Ike had Rob DaPron restore his first, mine was next. Rob says the second one was easier!

Karl Hoffman and I bought a 327 V-8 engine at the Monroe swap meet. Thanks to Ike Kielgass, Craig Magnusson, Dick Dow, & especially Karl the 283 guy, I found all the pieces necessary to make it into a boat motor.

Thanks to Kathy and Dick Dow for the beautiful interior!

More thanks to Ike for the use of his “Garage Mahal” to take engines in and out and his time to help me put it all together.

As you can see “Beautiful Day” Is the result of a lot of great relationships with chapter members. My profound thanks to all that helped. I hope I remembered everyone.

Just remember, any day you can go for a boat ride is yes...it is a “Beautiful Day”!

Ron Stevenson - Mercer Island, WA

Means of Escape

1958 Century Coronado with Cal Connell 300 hp Dual Quads

UPDATE - Progress, albeit slow, continues on our restoration.  Finding an upholstery shop has become a major challenge as there are fewer and fewer of these folks around.  Was able to locate a good chrome shop and have completed about 95% of that work.  For chrome, I would suggest that you double your budget!  Wood work is coming along and stain coats have finished.  Gauges and gas tank are in the shop being refurbished, and chasing down a few other items while we wait to begin re-assembly.

I was hoping to bring it to this year's International show in C D'A, but not happening this year.  

Rick & Jan Means - Mason Lake, WA

Miss Mile - a - Minute

Design: Rascal

Designer: Ken Bassett, Onion River Boatworks

Launched: 2014

Planked in Mahogany and Maple, Miss Mile-a-Minute is a 14' 10" batten-seamed, cold-molded speedster, sharing aesthetic cues from a 1937 Century Thunderbolt.  The bottom is a thoroughly modern shallow "V" with a speed pad, facilitating high speed with moderate horsepower.  Built by the owner over a 4-year period, she can be often found on beautiful Lake Crescent in the Olympic Peninsula.  Top speed is a GPS verified 70mph and her passion is racing vehicles along HWY 101!


Gauges include water pressure, GPS speedometer, tachometer, volt meter and fuel gauge.


She is currently powered by a classic Mercury short shaft outboard, utilizing a 140HP power head from 1980 and a racing lower unit gear set from 1971 with 1.78:1 drive ratio.  The anti-cavitation plate is 4.5" above the keel enabling use of high pitch chopper propellers.  Performance modifications include: top 2 water inlet holes plugged, Hot Foot throttle, blinker style trim switch, hydraulic steering, Allison-type drag foil and a custom designed and built tilt/trim actuator/indicator.

Pete Harrington, Builder/Owner, ACBS PNW member

Glory

1958 Glasspar 14' Custom   

Ingvar Carlson 

Rumble

Let’s get ready to Rumble

Our 18’ utility runabout was built by Cruison in Long Beach CA around 1960.  She is made from plywood and fastened together with stainless steel ring shank nails. Powered by a 1959 Cadillac 390 cu-in engine. 

I acquired her knowing the engine was seized and the hull exhibited some peculiar structural issues. I discovered oil-soaked and rotted wood in the hull.  I cut out and spliced in new sections of the keel, chines, and hull.  I made a new dash board and installed new gages. I completely re-wired her with color correct wires.

The engine block was beyond repair.  Luckily, I found a freshly rebuilt 1959 Cadillac 390 salvaged from a Higgins.  

After 5 years of working on her, she was ready to splash.  She will do 40 mph at 3200 rpm.  For a 60-year-old boat held together with ring shank nails, this is excitingly fast.  I have yet to take the engine to full throttle.  The inspiration for her name came from the sound of the vintage Cadillac exhaust exiting dual 3” copper exhaust pipes.


Steve Blanchard 

Nemesis 

Nemesis is a  1941 Chris-Craft that started its life as a 22’ Utility.  It was found on a forested bluff overlooking Puget Sound in La Conner, WA in 1980.  The original wood top had been cut off with a chainsaw and was laying over the engine box, which contained a chunk of rust that had been previously known as a Graymarine 6-cyliner engine.  It was evident that there had been considerable salt-water exposure.  During the next 7 years restoration and modifications were done. 

The boat was completely re-decked, the transom rebuilt, and the original bottom re-fastened.  In this process, wing-style glove-boxes were added behind the front seat, an arch & second bench seat were added, and the engine box re-decked / integrated with the arch in the Chris-Craft style.  The toe-rail was removed, the stem cut to flush, new cutwater made, and a hatch cover on the foredeck was added.  A Bimini top was built along with the full waterline cover and new upholstery.  She was repowered with a Chrysler 318, and the original (unusual) rear-steering station was retained.

In the Pacific NW we celebrate ‘Opening Day’ of the boating season the first weekend in May.  During the 80’s my friends would ask every year if the boat was going to be ready for Opening Day.  I’d hang my head and tell them there was still more to do.  Finally, with generous help from the Marine Servicenter owners on Lake Union, a launch party was held Opening Day weekend of 1987.

Nemesis was used extensively through 1991 until we moved to the UK.  She sat for 20 years until she was again refinished and repowered (Ford 351), by Alan Thomle in 2011.  She currently lies in Lake Washington. 

David Berett

Grace

My dad purchased Grace, a 1940, 17’ Chris-Craft Runabout Deluxe, in the early 2000’s and had her completely restored by Bronson Boat Works in Gig Harbor. The engine, a Mercury Bravo 4.3L converted to inboard velvet drive marine application was added in 2006 and has less than 50 hours on it. Her pigskin upholstery is like new, all gages are functional. One of my favorite features is the wood measuring stick to check how much fuel is in the tank. 


She’s a beauty! She’s appeared in a number of wedding photos of family and friends over the years, and made several excursions in the south Sound and travelled up the Columbia River. We recently took her out on Lake Whatcom, in Bellingham for her first excursion this summer.


A boat of this caliber should be used and enjoyed. My dad has come to the conclusion that he doesn’t have the time or energy to use the boat regularly, so unfortunately, we’ll be putting her up for sale soon. :( 

Nina Nancarrow

Jitterbug

1948 Chris Craft S22 Custom Sedan, #108  22 feet long, 8 feet beam  5.7 V8, Velvet Drive

The right place at the right time, that’s how Jitterbug came into our lives! After 8 years of floating unattended in a marina, we are thrilled to be able to begin her preservation while using Jitterbug everyday as our family boat. She retains her original beauty but has gained significant improvements in performance and reliability with the addition of a modern 5.7 liter engine. Jitterbug has travelled all over from Puget Sound to the Snake River and many, many lakes in between. Kept in our boathouse on Tanwax Lake, Jitterbug is ready for comfortable boating year round! 

Jeff Lucas

At Last

I purchased this 1956 Century Resorter for $500 in 1976 when I graduated from college. You could say it was a garage find in West Seattle as she was pretty gray and the upholstery close to not existent Apparently the owner trailered the boat from St. Paul, Minnesota and had several tire failures so he left it at his brother in laws. I have always enjoyed wood working and was ready for a project, little did I know it would take me over 40 years to get it back in the water. I joined the Pacific NW Chapter of ACBS in 2016 just before showing the boat at Mahogany & Merlot. After launching both bilge pumps ran continuously for 3 hours and we made sure to plug in a trickle charger that night to prevent draining the battery. After learning about what I should have done to prevent the bottom from leaking I started the second restoration 2 years ago to install a 5200 bottom and new hull planking. All the major work is done and 7 coats of varnish applied so we hope to have her back in the water this summer. We are looking forward to boating again and seeing everyone at ACBS meetings and shows. 


UPDATE - After trying to "swell" the bottom each season, and watching both bilge pumps run continuously when launched, I finally decided to replace the bottom and hull planks.  The 2nd restoration started 3-1/2 years ago and we launched her at the Spencer Lake meet-up this June.  We renamed the boat At Last in hopes that she is finally finished.  We are looking forward to attending the ACBS national boat show in Coeur d'Alene.  

Greg & Mary Batie - PNW ACBS 

1954 Chris Craft Custom Sedan - Modern Power 350 Mercruiser


I originally bought Joy Ride at the Antique Boat Center in Cincinnati Ohio in 2012. Through the previous owner, I found that it had been at Lake Arrowhead California for many years prior.  It had never had any significant repairs. The hull had leaks and it nearly sunk one afternoon when the bilge pump float stuck.  If it weren’t for a call from a neighbor I would have lost her in 100ft of water.  I decided take on a restoration and commit to a rebuild.  The rebuild was completed by Seasonic Boat Company of British Columbia in 2015.  The hull and decks are a cold moulded design using laminated mahogany plywood and boards covered with epoxy and automotive clear coat.  The original 130 HP Hercules M engine was underpowered for such a heavy boat so we opted for a modern 350 HP V8.  The interior was returned to the original design that included a Chinese Red linoleum floor and Grey Tolex vinyl.  Now the boat looks exactly as it did when it was first delivered from the plant in Michigan. It  looks all original but is a very strong and reliable modern boat that is fun to drive and will stand up for many years.

We have enjoyed participating in sanctioned antique and classic boat events.  We have had her at several ACBS boats shows in Canada and the northwest United States.  This boat shows very well. Awards received to date include:

2015 OACBS Sicamous Antique and Classic Boat Show – Skippers Choice Award

2017 OACBS Sicamous Antique and Classic Boat Show – Young Judges Choice Award

2018 Columbia Willamette Chapter ACBS Wooden Boat Show – Best Utility

2018 PNW-ACBS Mahogany and Merlot Antique and Classic Boat Show – People’s Choice

2020 Chris-Craft Antique Boat Club Virtual All Chris-Craft Antique and Classic Boat Show – “Best in Class – Classic Utilities”

We have had a lot of fun participating in hobby events.  I have written several articles about our adventures that have been published in various media including the Rudder, Woodyboater, ACBS Weekly Web Watch and various club newsletters. This has been a great way to share the fun we’ve had with Joy Ride.

Kelly Williamson and Jenni Medina -  Membership OACBS and ACBS-PNW

1949 Super Deluxe 26ft Semi Enclosed Cruiser

Updated with new pictures and video.

WORDS OF WARNING! Answering an ad that’s reads, “Old wood boat for sale, make offer!” Can lead one down a very interesting life path!! But I don’t need to tell most of you , no doubt most of you have been there! My father, grandfather & I used to sit out in the back yard whittling wood. I was probably 6 years old at the time.The 50s was simpler then. We didn’t even have a corded phone or TV!! I always carved something resembling a boat. When asked what I wanted to do when I grew up, I remember very clearly saying , “I want to build wood boats for a living”! Well , life gets in the way of everything! When I saw that ad I couldn’t wait to see it. I was 46, my first boat ! Even with both Hercules engines seized, standing in it looking at the cement floor through the shrunk up bottom, I HAD TO HAVE IT!!! Thank God I got in touch with the president of the CC society in Tallahassee & he said its worth what the trailers worth, about $1500. The guy wanted $6k , I asked how long it had been for sale , he said 2 years, I asked how many people had looked at it, he said one, me, I said think about it!! 3 trips later, he asked if my offer of $1500 still stands. I bought my first boat!!!

That was 1999, The boat is a 1949 Super Deluxe 26ft Semi Enclosed Cruiser. I stripped it down, turned it up side down, removed all planks, replaced about half the frames, restored the rest, whole new bottom, new transom, repaired & refastened all hull planks, faired them out, soaked everything in Smiths penetrating epoxy, painted entire hull, then turned it up right. Now, instead of being its own shed it was a bucket. I had no shop, it was outside. My wife Jeanie & I started talking about building a new house & shop so I could work on it inside! So in 2006 we remodeled the house so we could sell it. The boat got a roof over it & it became a storage unit. Sold the house, lived in a 5th wheel for 2 years, built a house & shop. Worked 70-80 hours per week. Retired in 2017 & finally got to work on my boat again. I am building two 283’s with Paragons to put in it. It’s far from done, but! When I bought it in 1999, I met Ron Stevenson, he said “ If U work on it every day it will be finished someday!“ Words to live by ! I would like to thank everyone whom I have called & gotten advice from over the years!! Ron Stevenson, Karl Hoffman, Alan Thomle, and many others ! THANKS MILLIONS!! For puttin up with “that guy in Yakima”!!

It will be finished some day! 

Louie Demmer 

Woody

1964  20 1/2 ft , 8 ft beam Grew Cruiser,  

I restored approximately 34 years ago, just finished some varnish refreshing, and engine oil change for this years cruising out of Crescent Beach, B.C.

At this time of the year we have very low tides mid day that prohibits launching, but this changes soon, to higher tides mid day, that will allow for lunch time cruises down the Nicomekl River from the Crescent Beach Marina.

Hopefully soon enough we can have real boat shows and get together.

Thanks Leagh & Lynn Gerllays - Surrey B.C.

1913 Minett - Cara Mia

The Cara Mia started its life in Nelson BC in 1913.   Purchased from the Minett boat works in Ontario the Cara Mia shipped to Nelson on a rail care and assembled in Nelson BC at the Waldon Boat Works just before the start of WW1.   Because the hard economic times that ensued after WW1,  the Cara Mia wouldn’t have its first owner until 1920 – sold without an engine. 


Over the years the Cara Mia has gone through a number of owners and more than a few harrowing experiences and have always remained on Kootenay Lake.  I purchased the boat in 1983 from a colleague in Kaslo BC (also on Kootenay Lake) and returned the boat to the Nelson area.  It would sit on a cradle on our beach until 2000 when it became a millennial project to get it fixed up.   


The Cara Mia was shipped to Kelowna and was eventually restored by Gordon Von-Montfoort from Classic Boat Works in Kelowna BC and returned to Nelson in 2004

Cam Tipping - Okanogan  ACBS

Riptide

RIPTIDE was built by the Schertzer Brothers in Seattle, on the north end of Lake Union, and launched in 1927. She is 47 feet long, with an 11 foot 10 inch beam on a draft of five feet. She is planked in Port Orford Cedar, and framed in white oak on a white oak keel. 


RIPTIDE is fortunate to have been maintained by two long-term owners, the first of whom owned her for 33 years,  and the second, two brothers, who, between them, owned her for fifty years. She is a happy boat, having hosted three marriages and cruises on the Puget Sound and Strait of Georgia all along the Vancouver Island coastline and as far north as Alaska.    


I've owned RIPTIDE since 2015. Her home port is Port Ludlow WA, on the Olympic Peninsula. 


My wife and I just completed a nine day cruise acting as a support vessel for the Salish-100 fleet, some 75 small boats of 10-23 feet sailing from Olympia WA to Port Townsend - the largest small boat cruise in North America, sponsored by the Northwest Maritime Center and supported by the Port Townsend Pocket Yachters and a number of other cruising and sailing groups in the Puget Sound.   


Want more Riptide?  Go here: RIPTIDE - Highlights | Flickr  or here: RIPTIDE | Flickr


Pete Leenhouts 

Sue 

1961 40' Rybovich Sport Fisher Hull #48 

Somehow, I came upon a 1961 Rybovich Sport Fisher that had been under single family ownership since her launch in West Palm Beach Florida in 1961.  Upon my first inspection in December 2018, I was intrigued; so much so I returned for several closer up visits and “free boat rides”, until we purchase her last year. 

As legend has it, Rybovich is a renowned 100-year-old manufacturer of blue water Sport Fishing boats.  Sport Fishing was a new concept in the 1940’s when the family owned Palm Beach based boat builder began production of boats worthy of pursuing giant Tuna in the Bahamas.  Meanwhile out west here, my ma & pa have always had Boston Whaler puddle-jumpers to skip around the sound in while crabbing and shrimping so this was quite a change for me.

I was given the original launching log when “Sue” first embarked on sea trials up the east coast from Palm Beach Florida to Annapolis, MD, before being loaded on a freighter.  But previous to making her way through the Panama ship canal and up the west coast to Seattle, a change-order was decided upon; she needed to be outfitted with a larger fly-bridge windshield and aft salon doors to enclose the galley for the cooler & wetter Pacific NW waters.  Back into the boatyard she went until August of 1961.   

So, after several visits to the Florida boatyard for consultation with the founder’s grandson and his incredible team, I am wrapping up the most needed repairs and upgrades to get us on the water.

A few of the pictures attached were taken when she was launched at the original boatyard and the others in and around the San Juan Islands.  

Thank-you for your interest and hope to see you soon out on the great waters of the Salish Sea! 

Check out Michael Rybovich and Sons website www.michaelrybovichandsons.com/

Pat Mace

Muzzy

I started looking for a boat back in 2009. I wanted an old wooden boat because I remember as a small kid being at my grandma and grandpas cottage in Ontario, and the neighbors having a boat with flags on it. 


So I looked for awhile and my wife Daniea found Muzzy online in Chesapeake Bay. So I made some calls and found out it was on consignment at a marina there. The owner was actually from Pennsylvania somewhere. 


After a few phone calls, Muzzy was mine! Now I just had to get it here. So the fella who I was in contact with told me about a company that all they did was drive boats up and down the Eastern seaboard. We agreed on a price to bring her to Blaine, Washington. A week later I had a boat. 


I used Muzzy for about 4 years and finally the original bottom needed replacing. So I took it to Sea Sonic Boats in Oyama, BC, were Chris Casparis worked his magic. 


We have done some cosmetic stuff since then. Replaced a couple of warped and cracked boats on the deck and transom. At the end of last summer, a rod went through the oil pan, so a new motor is in her future. 

Now Muzzy is part of our family, and a major part of our summers out at Hatzic Lake, here in BC. 


Tyson and Daniea Konecny- Okanagan Chapter ACBS 

Spirit Bear

"Spirit Bear" is a 1979 37' North Sea Trawler. She is a tri-cabin model, a couple steps down to a V-berth and head forward, a couple steps down from the salon to the aft master stateroom with a centerline queen bed, and a head with a sit-down bath tub! The main level salon includes the galley with propane stove/oven, table, settee and helm station. She is powered by a single Ford Lehman industrial engine, rated @120HP. She cruises around 7-9 knots, and burns 2-3 gallons per hour. She handles well at 34,000 pounds and a sharp chine.  Her flared bow keeps her pretty dry unless there is heavy weather. A forced air diesel heater keeps her warm and dry in the colder months. The flybridge can be completely enclosed with canvas and plastic windows. 

Bailey Blue 

Bailey Blue is a 1952 17' Christ Craft Special Runabout out of Algonac, MI now owned by Sara Venn of Gig Harbor, WA.  Bailey Blue was a dream come true for Sara Venn.  As a family boat purchased by her father in 1982, Sara grew up on this boat in MI with many fond summer memories fishing and waterskiing on this classic woody.  It became her dream as an adult to restore it and bring it out to WA state for her family to enjoy.  That dream came true in 2015 when it started its restoration journey with Dave Wrzesinksi at Marine Services Unlimited out of Houghton Lake, MI and then transported to Seattle.


Bailey Blue still has her original 105hp 6-cylinder Hercules engine.  Throughout the restoration Sara's goal was to restore everything to original condition except for the upholstery color.  Blue was chosen due to the nostalgia of what it was she enjoyed as a child.


For those interested, here is a link to the restoration photos:  https://www.marineserviceunlimited.com/Project-Galleries/Customer-Projects/1952-Special-Runabout/


Sara Venn & Kevan Barry, Gig Harbor, WA

Joanie XIV

For a great story on Joanie IV, go here for An Affair to Remember 

Peter Bro - PNW ACBS

1962 19' Owens Stafford 

I purchased is a 1962 19' Owens Stafford.  It is basically a garage find.  I bought it from the second owner who bought it from the estate of the original owner.  I have all the original documents that the original owner had as well as the original trailer.  He kept it garaged.  The second owner bought it and from what I understand basically never had it in the water.  He parked it in his garage in 2016 and there it stayed until I bought it a couple weeks ago.  It's strange because the brochure I have shows a boat like mine with a model name of Exeter.  Other research shows that the 17' model was the Exeter and the 19' was the Stafford.  Stafford is what is listed in the cabin of mine so I will go with that until I learn more.  I currently have the boat having the engine looked over and tuned.  After that I need to address a couple of small holes I believe are near the bilge area.  I have moorage secured at Waypoint Marine Group on the Dry Rack so that I can have easy access all the time to the lakes and sound. 

Kyle Bieber - NEW PNW ACBS member 

Here are some of last year's entries...

Means to Ski

1970 Century Resorter 18'

In my younger years I was surrounded by friends who all had a lake place.  Whenever the opportunity arose, we would head out to somebody’s cabin to go boating and water ski.  This comradery built up my dream that someday I too would have my own lake place.  

Over the years I was on the hunt for that boat that I often skied behind, a Century Resorter.  As I hunted for the boat, my radar was on for a lake place as well.  Finally, the opportunity for a lake cabin came, so that part of the dream happened and now the need for a boat became higher on the “to do” list.  One of my water ski buddies, a 1968 Century Resorter owner, told me about a boat he came across and I ended up buying a 1970 Century Resorter.  Great, another item checked off the list!

When we picked up the boat from the current owner’s house, the owner’s wife had to sit in the boat one more time.  As were heading out of their driveway, I look in the rear view mirror and see the them standing in the driveway watching years of memories driving away. I was sensing that there were many years of fun attached to our truck.  

While the boat was in good condition, I slowly began fixing small things, bringing the 1970 Resorter closer to its original glory days.  We take the Resorter to many shows around the Pacific Northwest. One day I was at the previous owner’s lake place and dropped in to show him the boat.  His daughter was also there, and she informed me that she was not happy that Dad had sold the boat which had been in the family for 25 years!  It was becoming more apparent that this boat played a large part in the family’s summer entertainment.  I promised to keep in touch and every time we are in the Priest Lake Idaho area, we get together so she can see how the boat is doing and remember the fond days of fun that the family had with the “blue boat”.   She is happy that the boat is in good hands and has made it clear that if I ever wanted to sell it, we need to talk. 

PS - Sometimes Skipper Rudy gets to drive!  

Rick & Jan Means - Mason Lake, WA

Baby Jay

In 2001 I was told of a 1940 18 ft Chris Craft sedan hull # 81088 at about 7 AM, by 5 pm it was in my garage.  This boat was the miniature version of our 1941 34 foot Chris Craft cruiser named Blue Jay.  We immediately came up with the name Baby Jay for this project boat. 

Although the 18 ft sedan does not show in any Chris Craft advertisements I have a picture of another one, so at least two are know to exist.  At a Chris Craft Rendezvous I showed Chris Smith the first picture and he declared that "We built that sedan roof, we did lots of custom work".   Baby Jay has new stringers, keel, stem, chines, bottom frames and all new planking. 

The hull is currently complete, bottom painted and ready to turn upright.  The sedan roof and decks are the next area to be addressed. 

Karl Hoffman

JAZZ

This is a 1948 Duke 22ft utility, hull number 4808 built in Port Carling, Ontario. They built four of this model that year. It has it’s original 6 cylinder Buchanan engine.

I bought it in 1997 for my wife on our 25th wedding anniversary. You will see the name SANDRA SUE on the transom when restoration started.

The last time we were in Canada, the building in which it was built was still being used to restore boats.  I walked up the worn treads on the stairway to the loft where the boats were built.

We took delivery at the ACBS boat show in Clayton New York.

We toured the Thousand Island region during the show for three weeks and towed it home to southern California where it sat enclosed in our garage for 10 years.

Some time in 2007, my neighbor John Tyler encouraged me to restore the boat especially because as a utility, it has such great lines and tumblehome.  We both attended restoration classes at Sierra Boat on Lake Tahoe.  I then realized the importance of a professionally restored bottom, and selected Todd Jeffery to do the work.  Total new 5200 lapstrake bottom, included the keel.  All but the first 5 or 6 steam bent ribs were replaced.  Restacked the original sides.  Decking is all original, and all deck seams are live. As far as we can tell the only non original wood on the boat are the new ribs, the full length stringers, the keel and the 3/4” oak piece Todd added at the water line to fill the gap created by the restacked sides. It was the last boat he did before moving to Du Bai.  John Allen did the engine in San Jose

Just finished it time for the Tahoe Concours in 2008.  Won best in the utility class, last announced so had the highest score.  Took it again in 2010 after Jim West redid the varnish and won best again with the highest score.

Boat is currently for sale, and we can deliver in enclosed trailer.

Richard Wendt

Gilbey

1937 Chris Craft 19 ft Custom. Found by Dick Dow next to a floating home on lake Union.  Purchased for $500 with almost no hardware.  I have collected most of it, but have to finish Baby Jay before I start on this one.

Karl Hoffman 

Lulu Belle

A 17’ 1942 Chris Craft Special Runabout with a 95hp “K” engine. 

She is owned and lovingly restored by Steve & Louise Leslie of Mission, BC.  Okanagan ACBS Chapter.

This model was one of the last boats Chris Craft made before going into full time war production. 

I don’t know much about her history, other than she was originally shipped to Portland OR. I purchased her in pieces from a gentleman in Vancouver, WA.

Its my first boat and my first restoration. Don Danenberg and his forum was invaluable in the restoration. 

She’s a blast to drive!

I’ve included a video because Karl is so passionate about giving boat rides at the Renton show, so come onboard and enjoy the ride! 

1941 Chris Craft Barrel Back

When Karl and I first saw the boat it had about 100 gallons of water in it. We bailed it out and hooked up the "trailer."    We were not sure the trailer would make it home.  It did but went to the scrape pile the next day  There was nothing good about it.  Every thing about the boat was in sad shape.  So just about everything is or has been replaced except the stringers and some ribs. 

Even the gas tank was bad.  The bottom had been cut out and was mostly flat. 

Edensaw loved to see me coming and I did that many times and may be back more.  I have very few pictures due to a missing or stolen camera M &M.  I was lucky in that insurance paid enough to get a replacement.  Allen Thomle is working on the boat due to an arm that is not working right.   I hope to be able to do the varnishing during the summer months  I would love to have it in the water this year. 

Jerry Campbell

Jobe Skis

This is my 1983 Correct Craft Ski Nautique. It was purchased new by Jeff Jobe to be used as his professional tournament ski boat. It is pictured at our Home on Spencer Lake in Mason County near Shelton, Washington.

Karl Hoffman, PNW-ACBS

Classic Plastic

Classic Plastic is a the 1966 Century Fibersport that you could never order. She was sold new in Seattle in 66. It was suggested by a dear friend of mine in 2001 that I needed to go and look at the boat and take it home. After many thoughts and a few drinks I decided I wanted her. After a few attempts of using her which did not end well I decided it was the trailers fault and ordered up a new one. Well, that just led to the next round. After getting her back sitting on the new trailer the boat looked awful. So in 2005 I decided to restore the boat but I wanted the model you could never get from Century. So she was given a Black & Copper paint scheme, Avodire wooden decks that are laminated to 4mm plywood, new interior along with re-chroming the hardware and a 390 Interceptor engine. We have taken her a few places and enjoy using her as she was designed for. I still water ski and use a set of wooden water skies from 66 and our grand-kids love being pulled on a tub behind her.

Jim and Sharon West

Sunken Treasure

Here is our 1966 17' Century Resorter. We bought the boat in August 2017 from a friend, whose family had it for 33 years. The boat was found by their cousin in 1983 in Hayden Lake, Idaho. The boat was sunk 10 years prior in 160' of water.

Be Safe Wear Life Jackets….Because We're Old. 

Rodger & Colleen Wright   Beaverton, OR USA

ACBS, Columbia/Willamette Chapter, Century Boat Club

Deco

DECO is a 1930 Dee-Wite, 19’ Spilt cockpit runabout. Manufactured by the Dwight Lumber Company located in Detroit MI. To date, Dee-Wites are considered an extremely rare boat, with only a handful known to exist.

DECO was discovered in Wolfeboro VT and brought to Spokane WA for restoration. DECO has approximately 95% of her original hardware to include the “Ahooga” horn and floor starter. She is powered by a 6 cyl. 120 HP Gray Marine Phantom. DECO still has the original keel and framing of White Oak and the covering boards are African Mahogany. A unique thing about Dee-Wites ,they used clinched copper boat nails (rivets) on her free-boards. DECO has over 1800 of these on her hull sides. Bungs were not used to cover the brass screws-so in addition to the copper boat nails she “glistens” in the sun.

Owned by BK Powell and “Leon”. Inland Empire ACBS Chapter Member

Blondie

Blondie is a 1955 19’ Chris Craft Capri CP19-008. I completely rebuilt every bit of her. She is powered by a Small block Chevy 283. She runs fantastic lots of fun to drive, very nimble and sporty I call her my Corvette.

See ya on the water!! 

Warren & Tracy Olson. Seattle, WA. PNW ACBS Chapter Member

Lady K

1954 Century Sea Maid 18'  with Chrysler 125HP

Brian Fair Inland Empire ACBS

What a way to deliver the bride!

Rhubarb

Make:                      Shepherd

Year:                       1961

Model :                    V-110

Power:                    416 Chrysler – Golden Commando 280 hp

Owners:                  Scott Mason & Patty Ludden

Preserved and Personalized Changes – Alan Thomle – Thomle Boatworks

Engine, Transmission, V-Drive Rebuilt by – Marty Haack – Block Head Machine

Purchased her in Omaha NE in 2014 after a yearlong search in US and Canada with the guidance of Craig Magnusson.  Since completion Rhubarb has traveled over 25,000 miles to the last 5 ACBS International Boat Shows and cruised on all the Great Lakes and many other remarkable bodies of water in the US and Muskoka in Canada near her birthplace at Niagara On the Lake, Ontario Canada.

U-17

This is a 1996 Four Winns Unlimited-17.  The boat was ordered by Mr. Oberto of the Oberto sausage fame and spent most of its days on Lake Washington.

Four Winns produced the U-17 and it’s bigger sister the U-19 to beat the Donzi’s.  Donzi has the 16’ and 18’.  Improvements included a 5 liter 302ci Ford Cobra fuel injected engine, solid fiberglass interior sole, windscreen, 32 gallon internal fuel tank, and swim platform with ladder. 

The boat is capable of a top speed of 65 at 4,500 rpms.

Mark Johnson  Olympia, WA

1993 Mastercraft ProStar 190 Red

1993 Mastercraft 25th Anniversary Edition Stars & Stripes

Purchased new in the fall of 1993.  Jim Giesy is the only owner and the boat is 100% original with 325 hours.  

Never been off Mason Lake and if you know Jim - this boat is spotless!!

Boat will be handed down to the grand children, because my son has his own Mastercraft!

Jim

GRACIA

1971 19’ RIVA JR.  Series 3

Hull # 567

Owners: David & Jeri Lobb

This boat was originally shipped to Rapallo Italy on the Italian Riviera.

In 2001 the boat was shipped to Donna Clark in California and used on Lake Tahoe. Three years later Marty Feletto purchased the boat and added it to his collection of Riva’s. In 2010 we purchased the boat and did a total restoration. This included a new bottom, complete refinish, new upholstery, gauges were rebuilt and engine rebuilt.

Series 3 Riva Juniors are 6” longer and are the only ones with turquoise gauges and steering wheel centers. We are fortunate to have the original very rare bimini top.

After retiring the end of June 2019 we decided to move back to Washington State to be closer to family after 15 years of living in California. “GRACIA” now resides with us on Lake Tapps, WA.

Black Pearl

Century introduced the Coronado model in 1955 revolutionizing the boating world with high style and high-performance engines. A redesign occurred about every 2 years consisting primarily of the top and feature paint. However, in 1965 a new hull was designed which was the last new design Century did for a wood hull and continued thru 1968 when wood boat stopped and was replaced by plastic.

I purchased my 66 Coronado on 12/05/2006 in California. It had been in the judged Tahoe show and had done fairly well but had not received any awards (averaged 87 out of 100) . The spark red interior and the black sheer were correct and non-standard.   When work started to replace some bad wood in the bottom the scope of the work expanded and the entire bottom including keel ,stringers, battens, and chine were replaced.  The work was performed with the boat upright because I expected minor work and also didn’t want to remove the top for fear of problems reinstalling it.

After restoration Black Pearl has received trophies at the international show in Coeur d'Alene as well as several best Century awards.

John Tyler

NAMELESS

Year: 1948

Designer and Builder: Chris Craft

Length: 20'

Type: Chris Craft Custom

Power: Chris Craft V8

Boat restored by Rob DaPron and Ike Kielgass and motor restored by Ike Kielgass in 1997.

The 20 foot Chris Craft Custom was the first Chris Craft to offer a two-tone finish. The center king plank, covering board down the rear deck and trim around the cockpit was bleached blonde. The combination of dark and light finish was considered very stylish and still is today. 

Ike Kielgass, Renton, Washington.

Kindling

Several years ago my longtime friend and woody boater saw a craigslist ad from Colorado Springs, Colorado.  After several phone calls and a request for pictures that showed the Chris Craft had all of its parts, a deal was made over the phone.   My brother-in-law and I left for Colorado within days.  The boat came with an unmounted Chris Craft 283.  Everything was in need of restoration.  The long-block was replaced with a small journal Chevrolet 327 and camel hump heads. It is now ready for installation.  The bottom is being addressed with all new keel, bottom frames, and inner & outer planking.  It's still not to the 1/2 way point but I will continue to learn the art of woody boat building.   1958 Chris Craft Capri       

Roger Cox  

Tupperware

TUPPERWARE is a 1969 Chris Craft Cavalier 17 Ski Boat.  Powered by her original 327Q 230hp V8.  Responsibly preserved with just 669 hours.  She has received new upholstery in 2010, eight coats of new paint in 2016, and an annual buff and wax every year since.  Three time award winner at the Annual La Conner Classic Boat and Car Show, two time Kid's Choice winner at the prestigious Renton River Days and Mahogany & Merlot shows.

Brian Flaherty

1966 Century Resorter

I purchased this boat in 1983 and started learning about wood boats.  The Second picture is our kids at 6 and 8 on lake Tahoe.  They are now 43 and 45.  After replacing the bottom, reupholstering, and an engine rebuild.  I was ready to take on more of these. I have since restored a 55 Century Coronado, a 1941 34ft Chris Craft Cruiser, and have two more prewar Chris Crafts in the queue.  After using it for 20 years I gifted it to my son when he graduated from  college.  After many more years of use it somehow ended back in my garage.  It is currently waiting for one more life when my 13 year old grandson gets a little older.  

Karl Hoffman

Aknota

“Aknota” is a 1947 Chris Craft 25’ Express Cruiser, commonly known as a Red & White and one of the iconic boats of the WWII era. She has a comfortable V-berth cuddy cabin forward with a head and lots of room behind the streamlined art-deco inspired windshield to enjoy the ride and scenery.  Introduced in 1939, 68 boats were built before the war and 302 after, with production ending in 1948.  Approximately 50 of these boats are known to exist today.

This example was restored between 1990 and 2006 by Ted Helvig and Youngquist Boat Repair in Seattle. It is well documented on U-Tube. At that time, the boat was known as “The Olde Man”.  Ted bought the boat after riding in my original Red & White “Tango” in 1989.

I purchased it in 2016 as Ted has retired in Arizona and is not boating any longer. With 200 hours since restoration, it is practically a new boat. Originally powered by a Chrysler Royal, flathead straight-8 engine, I am currently building a “modern” 454 to update the boat and provide more suitable, reliable power for cruising the San Juan Islands and other PNW waters.

“Aknota” is a play on Annata, an Italian term for vintage wine grapes.  Red & White…

Dick Dow

Boaty McBoatface

I came into possession of a 14-ft 1962 Lone Star Malibu runabout about four years ago.  I purchased this classic boat from my aunt, without any knowledge of its history; just knowing it as the cool aluminum boat with fins that was sitting by her house.  They had bought it in 1985, but only used it a couple times that year.  Unfortunately, that winter a nasty windstorm ripped the cover off the boat and, in the process, shattered the acrylic windshield.  That is where it sat for the next 30-years, which helped give it its “patina.”  I traded her a few hundred dollars’ worth of window air conditioners for the boat, since I thought I could use another project (in related news I’m looking for someone that could add some holes to my skull).

Over the span of a year I stripped the hull down completely to bare aluminum before building it back up into some semblance of its former glory.  My restoration is far from a concourse restoration and a lot isn't period correct (Wise seats and the mahogany trim isn't exactly factory), but she still turns some heads.  While I believe the boat was originally red and black, I opted for the second color scheme that was available that year, the teal and black in the same pattern.  I also found a 33-hp Evinrude Ski-twin that I rebuilt and restored to give the boat a little more "go" than the 18-hp Fastwin that came on the boat; she'll get up on plane and cruise at about 20-mph without much effort.

Lone Star Boat Manufacturing had humble beginnings; founded in Grand Prairie, Texas in 1945 immediately following WWII and initially producing aluminum boats in the 12-14 foot range.  The company grew quickly and expanded into fiberglass manufacturing in the early 50s, running fiberglass and aluminum boat lines in parallel.  In 1965, the company was acquired by Chrysler and became the Chrysler Boat Corporation, which continued production until 1979 when they closed the doors on their marine division.  The original Lone Stars remain popular with collectors and enthusiasts today; with a large and active online community on Facebook.

The Malibu was at the heart of the Lone Star line in the late 50s and early 60s, when 14-16 foot runabouts were the hottest market.  These small runabouts provided a lot of fun on the water for a family of 4 at a very reasonable price ($525 in 1958, which is just over $4000 in today’s dollars).  The Malibu stood apart from other aluminum boats of the time with its stylish design that was more akin to its fiberglass rivals, even including small tail fins.  In the 60s, the public began to demand larger vessels and the Malibu was dropped from the production line in 1963.

If you're interested, I detailed the full restoration on my blog; https://www.thecaptainsblog.net/home/category/lone-star-malibu

Brent Pounds 

1965 Chris Craft Super Sport

This is hull #CUF-18-0043C with the original GM 327F 210hp engine. I found the boat on ebay in 2003 and put it in storage for a retirement project and have been working on it the past six years. The woodwork is basically done and ready for stain and varnish. Mark Clawson is rebuilding the gauges and then I will rebuild the instrument panel and rewire the boat. New bilge blower, bilge pump, upholstery, engine installation, new prop shaft, etc. are all next on the list. 

Gary Becker   ACBS #22989

Silver Heels

1931 Chris-Craft 24' single cockpit forward

Mike Hutchison

Miss Sydney

Miss Sydney is a interpretation of a 1936 Ventnor raceboat .  It was built in Australia and received as an unfinished hull.  I did the mechanics and hardware utilizing two very different interchangeable motors.  A 1921  1126 cu. In. Hispano Suiza aircraft engine is used for special events and a 383 Chev stroker engine for everyday use. All mounts and controls are compatible so the swap over can be done in one day.  A quick change v-drive converts from a 2 to 1 step up for the Hisso and a 1 to 1 for the Chev. We have enjoyed the boat for the past 18 years traveling cross county to Florida, New York and Canada as well as our local bodies of water.

Curt & Marsha Erickson

1993 Mastercraft Prostar 19 Blue

The story is, that I decided to go back to a tournament ski boat after many years of owning antique Chris Crafts and a Pacemaker.  Prior to that, I owned a Supra TS6M Comp tournament ski boat for 16 years. 

This Mastercraft was built in 1993. It was their 25th anniversary edition Stars and Stripes Prostar 190. Since it was 25 years old when I bought it, it qualified as a "Classic" boat instead of an "Antique" boat. 

Don Palmer

John’s Dear

The story goes like this...

John meets Lauree, they fall in Love and get married March of 2018.  John sells his Hobby Farm and John Deere tractor.

May of 2018 they find a 1960 CC Capri in a garage in SE Portland, buy the boat, join the boat club, and start restoring the boat.

John was lead to believe it just needed some sanding and paint.  As seen in the photos, the boat was completely dismantled.  5200 bottom, side and bottom planks were refastened, new transom, cover boards,and dash.  All of the original components were restored by 3rd party, and with the help of club members she “John’s Dear” launched Thursday July 9th, 2020.

John and Lauree Fischer 

Bella Donna di Mare 

Bella Donna di Mare is a 1948 Century Seamaid owned by Steve and Diane Franchini of Ellensburg, Washington.

The boat is powered by a Grey Marine Fireball 160.

This boat was purchased in Portland, OR and has been a preservation project for the last 5+ years.  It has been a “learn-as-you-go” project and is finally nearing completion.  Exhaust and wiring are the major items left to complete this summer. We have retained the original 1948 interior upholstery.

A special thank you goes out to Rob DaPron for replacing the deck.

Steve Franchini

Sindbad

“Sindbad” was designed and built by Marcel Baalman in his garage in the San Jose area in 1939. Modeled after the Chris Craft racing runabout of the era, it was used extensively in the San Francisco Bay area, the Sacramento Delta, Lake Tahoe, the Colorado River and other waterways of the West until it was sold (within the family) and came to Washington in 1954.

I purchased it nearly 30 years ago and gradually brought it back to life, re-decking it in a configuration similar to its original layout and have used it extensively for the past 16 years. It still has the original bottom and side planking, still good after all these years and miles!

The boat is 19’ long, cypress over oak and currently powered with a modern Mercruiser (Chev) 350.  The original Cadillac flathead V8 is in my garage. The plan is to rebuild and return it to the boat in the future.

The picture at the dock is from 2016, when we took it back to the Delta for a day of boat rides with original family members.

Dick Dow

Shangri-la

1956 Century Resorter  I bought the boat in 1999 and finished it in 2004.

It has a RamJet 350 hp and 420 fp torque 

It was the first boat I have ever restored. 

Pat Kelly

Rock-it ‘58

“Rock-it ‘58” is a 16 foot plywood runabout built in Bellingham in 1957 by Karl Vevag and his company, Dakota Boat. Karl was the lead boat builder at Norseman, which was founded and built boats designed by George Garlick, a well-known and prolific marine architect who lived in Bellingham.

This boat is typical of the small day cruisers of the late 50’s which were used all over the lakes and waterways of the Pacific Northwest. Light, efficient and surprisingly capable, groups of families would be found cruising this sort of craft through the San Juan and Gulf Islands, camping at night at the various state and provincial parks, visiting the developed harbors for showers, food and fuel, dashing from spot to spot until it was time to end their vacations.

Plywood boat design and construction bridged the gap between difficult, labor intensive plank boatbuilding, typical of the large cruisers and exclusive mahogany runabouts of earlier eras, and the factory fiberglass boat-building operations that proliferated in the 60’s and continue today. These designs were basic and could be assembled quickly into very nice, useable boats.

The Northwest was home to many plywood boat builders: Bryant, Fairliner, Lady Clipper, McChesney, Morris Brothers, Reinell, Sande Ace, Tollycraft and Willits are a few of the familiar names. The list here, and in other parts of the country is endless.

We’ve had this boat since 1999 and have used it extensively on the waters around the state.

Dick Dow

Thisuldu 

The 38’ Tollycraft Mariner, introduced in 1965 is a great example of the genius of Ed Monk, Sr., working in collaboration with “Tolly” Tollefson to provide an efficient, spacious and comfortable Northwest cruiser.

Zeas” will become “Thisuldu”  

Instantly recognizable, these iconic boats carry the signatures of both men. There is no question who drew the design and who executed it. Tolly began building plywood boats in 1952, and almost all were drawn by Monk. They quickly established a reputation for building attractive, high-quality, strong and seaworthy craft. This is Monk design number 2463, finished April 4, 1964. The 38’ Tollycraft Mariner is a testament to Ed Monk’s mastery of materials and cruiser design. It carries features and layout you will see in his work dating back to the 30’s when he began creating the pilothouse cruisers that are so revered here. He often placed the motors under the aft deck, utilizing v-drives to achieve efficient shaft angles and propulsion system packaging. Doing this gave tremendous flexibility and space forward for tankage and systems, eliminated noise and fumes from the cabin, and allowed him to create roomy, comfortable living spaces, well laid out and finished, with storage everywhere you look.

As this is a planing as opposed to displacement hull, weight dramatically affects efficiency at cruise. Again, Monk had this dialed in. Weight is distributed evenly throughout the boat to help it plane efficiently. She cruises effortlessly at 14 knots and tops out well over 20. Yet with the inherent stiffness of its structure, the “Conolift” design also provides a stable, capable boat in rough seas. Incredibly, this boat, with all of its utility, room and comforts - two heads, full galley and the ability to sleep six, (not to mention twin stations) weighs only 7 tons. By comparison, a 36’ Grand Banks weighs nearly three times as much!

We acquired the boat about twelve years ago, repainted the hull, re-powered, reupholstered, rewired the 120VAC, improved some onboard systems and upgraded the galley. The interior finishes are still mostly original. As with all boats, the projects never end, but we have enjoyed “Thisuldu” for the past decade now and intend to continue cruising the boat for years to come.

Dick Dow

Inlet Belle

Home Port: Bedwell Bay (location on Indian Arm), Belcarra, B.C.

The engine is a 1925 Kermath 20 HP, 4 cylinders

Provenance of the Inlet Belle Manufactured by Truscott Boat Manufacturing in St. Joseph, Michigan about 1900-1904. This is a model 25 (for 25-foot length) standard fantail launch with a standing canopy. This provenance has only recently been determined from information supplied by Eric Hansen, from St. Joseph MI. in January 2020.

The boat was purchased in Toronto, Ontario the 1920’s and used on Lake Kamaniskeg in Ontario. The boat had a history of sinking and had to be moored in shallow water. The legend is that the boat sank under a bridge in Combermere and that was the last recorded sighting of the hull until an old barn was being torn down for the barn boards. The hull was moved to Millar-Potter’s Boat Works in Manotick, Ontario where it was restored starting on September 30, 2004. Once completed, the boat was launched on the Rideau River on August 26th, 2005. Started the trip back to British Columbia on August 27th, 2005 and launched in Port Moody on September 10th,2005 – just short of one year after restoration began.

Owners: Ian and Sylvia Devlin   OACBS Chapter members since 2006

1988 Correct Craft Ski Nautique 2001

This boat is in great condition and runs like a ski boat should. It has plenty of torque for just about any type of watersport. It also doesn’t hurt that it has that 351 last year for dual exhaust rumble. Our family loves this boat and wish we could keep it, but we simply do not have time for it. She needs someone who has the time to appreciate her timeless style and power. Some of the things that have been recently done include: Red Dot dual fan Heated Cockpit-rebuilt FWC 351 Windsor with a little over 100 hours on it now-transmission rebuilt in the winter of 2014-rebuilt-Holley 600 carburetor-Mallory Electronic Distributor-new battery 2020-New Alternator-rebuilt raw water pump-new belts-New Exhaust Manifolds 2019-boat trailer all original NOP rust paint-Excellent bunk boards on trailer with new carpet-new wheel bearings and 6robbles axle on trailer-Good trailer tires and Brakes Going to sell soon-any reasonable offer will be sincerely considered! Take a look and you wont be disappointed. The stringers and floors are in great shape. The interior is all original, with a few cracks and still in good shape. It has been stored inside. Teak has been well taken care of. It also comes with its original cover. Negatives that I can think of are a few interior seat material cracks, the Clock and Depth Finder do not work. Thanks for looking. If you are interested email Phil correct_craft@outlook.com. AND would like to sell same boat for $9500.00 This is an AS IS sale.

THIS BOAT IS FOR SALE

Phil Bannon

8627 36Th Ave NE

Marysville, WA 98270

360 631 9891

GreyHound

1921 Robert Yandt, 33ft., Gentlemen's Racing Runabout

Owned by Alan & Yvonne Thomle

Greyhound was built on the site of the present day Coeur d'Alene Resort Hotel in 1921, by Robert Yandt for R.C. Dillingham of Spokane, WA, who owned a summer home across the Lake in Casco Bay. She was built to a John L. Hacker design and powered by a 1051 CID 6 cylinder Sterling Dolphin engine of 225hp. Lightly built of cypress, oak and mahogany, she was capable of speeds close to 40mph, and in the early 1920's was one of the fastest boats on Lk. Coeur d'Alene, winning many races. She not only raced, but was also used by the Dillinghams as a family runabout for many years. In the early 1950's Robert Yandt Jr., son of the original builder, purchased Greyhound and used her as a water taxi on Lk. Coeur d'Alene for many years. After Robert sold her, Greyhound eventually came to rest blocked up in a field, where she weathered for many years near the lake. When Alan Thomle, owner of Alan Thomle Boat Works of Stanwood, WA. acquired Greyhound she looked like a bleached out piece of driftwood. Her bottom was badly distorted and there was still a coating of Mt. St. Helens ash inside. With help from some friends restoration was begun late in 2007. Thousands of hours were spent in making Greyhound like a new boat. Her original 1921 appearance is retained but the boat now has a very low maintenance wood-epoxy composite hull, with a modern 330hp. Marine Power 454. Alan also added a few amenities to the boat for convenience like: ice box for food and drinks, bunk and head for overnight boating. The original seats were wicker chairs but since this was not a practical option Alan built beautiful mahogany seats with storage below. The front hatch is removable with two seats there as well with the bunk and head under the front deck. Greyhound has won multiple awards everywhere she goes. From a women's point of view this boat has been the smoothest and safest boat ride I have ever been on even in the worst weather. She has a custom triple axle trailer, which makes launching and loading easy. She's Available for sale please give me a call and just leave a message at 360-652-8879.

THIS BOAT IS FOR SALE


Healey Passions 

Healey Passions is a rare 1958 Healey Sportsboat that was shipped to the United States. There are less than 10 here now and several are outboards. Passions was given a restoration in the early 2001-2 and then shown all over the country winning numerous awards including several from Tahoe. While showing Passions in 2005 I met and was able to spend the day with Sir Sterling Moss. He was even kind enough to tell me several stories about him and Donald Healey and the boats. Healey Passions is now awaiting patiently for a new captain.

Asking $ 49,950.00 

Contact Jim West (503) 422-8104

THIS BOAT IS FOR SALE

Spirit

1940 Chris Craft 18" Utility

This boat is hull number 81156 of 81000-81407

Was delivered to Delavon, WI on July 31,1940

Power by a 500 Mercruiser

Restored in 2018 by Ike Kielgass 

THIS BOAT IS FOR SALE

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