Refitting a Classic
During the Summer of 2006 Seacrest’s owner, Brian Foley, was approached by a potential customer who was exceptionally passionate about his 1963 38’ Bertram Sportfish. Rather than upgrade to a later model, this customer was convinced that the build of his classic yacht could not be beaten by a newer design. After discussing the customer’s vision and needs, we shared ideas and agreed upon a budget and plan to start the project. The strategy was a complete restoration of the interior and exterior. The project started in October of 2006 and not only was the entire interior of the boat gutted, but most of the marine hardware and fittings were removed as well. In addition, the exterior fiberglass consisting of the super structure and hull were painted.

It was a complete re-fit, top to bottom. The boat was completely transformed, both cosmetically and mechanically. The project took almost 5 months and the outcome was a complete success! As many seasoned boaters will agree, molds of the past do not match up to today’s typical production boats. Although today’s boats are often much lighter and sometimes faster, one could argue that performance and quality are often compromised as a result. Classics from yacht manufacturers like Bertram, Hatteras, Viking, Egg Harbor, Post and many others afford decades of enjoyment and safe boating.

The next time you are in Falmouth Harbor near the Flying Bridge Restaurant, look for the “new” navy blue hull on the yacht “OFF THE CUFF”. A close up view of this fine vessel will most certainly amaze the trained boater’s eye. You will not believe that this boat is approaching 40 years old and the owner is “tickled pink” at the performance of her new power and its 30 knot cruise! This is all while his grandchildren enjoy the creature comforts of the new generator, A/C and satellite TV systems down below.