27 Years New

As the saying goes: “Everything old is new again.” Here in Bass Harbor, Maine, we are in the midst of a rather unique project. Back in 1984, Craig and Sharon of Bayfield, Wisconsin, wanted a boat they could call their very own, and realized the Frances 26’ Kit Boat would fit in well with their plans to finish off a fiberglass hull “in their spare time” while they continued with their busy lives.

In August of 1985, after a brief sea trial in Southwest Harbor to check out the Westerbeke engine and a few minor details, their Frances was rolled up onto a trailer and then headed west.

As we all know, “spare time” rarely walks up to us and says “Hello”, so fast forward 27 years to 2012.  Sharon decided she had waited long enough for Craig to finish off the project in the barn, and called Morris Yachts to see about surprising her husband by having the boat brought back to Maine for completion.

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Morris Frances 26

It became quickly apparent that this was going to be a hard secret to keep from her husband. After the initial call, there were already a myriad of questions to consider.  What kind of trim to install? How high are the settees going to be? Would Craig want a smooth overhead, or perhaps some pine strips that he had been saving out there in the barn for “something”?  Sharon reluctantly accepted that Craig would have to know, or else he might end up with her choice of cushion color. Marriages are only so strong.

Less than three months later, Craig happily made the journey back to Maine with the Frances. Most prominent of Craig’s efforts is the beautiful teak decking, which is proof enough that he was most definitely capable of fine woodworking (Craig is a retired Wisconsin forester). He also proved to be pretty handy at Awlgrip, which is not for the faint of heart. Still, it was time to get the boat finished and enjoy the sailing part. And when your wife is agreeable to having someone else cross something off the “Honey-do” list, you don’t hesitate.

This fall, Craig and Sharon are looking forward to some “spare time” after selling their Bed & Breakfast. But they won’t be headed to the barn… Craig is taking Sharon sailing.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

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