Boats for Sale
The IYRS wooden boat collection is unique. Unlike many institutions which restore and then display significant historic vessels, IYRS uses the boats it restores. The old adage that "ships and men rot in port" is still true. Static museum exhibits often deteriorate faster than vessels which are used and appreciated for what they are. Unless you actually sail or work a vessel, you cannot learn as much from it or gain a total appreciation for its design, performance or general use characteristics. For this reason, IYRS is proud to use restored vessels—for enjoyment, education and to deliver an on-water historic experience. “Preservation through use,” is the institution’s philosophy, as exhibited at our annual Graduation and Launch Day ceremonies in which students launch and sail or run their commissioned restorations.
We sell restored wooden boats so that they can be used and cherished by others. Funds raised from the sale of boats are put back into the school programs.
If you are unable to visit IYRS to view our boats, learn more about the current restoration projects, including the schooner yacht Coronet, on this website. All the boats at IYRS, including those awaiting restoration, have been donated to the school.
If you are interested in any of the following, please contact us at (401) 848-5777:
For Sale: Beetle Cats®
A number of fully restored Beetle Cats are are available for delivery now at a great price, complete with sails, beautiful bronze hardware and in appropriate colors. The Beetle Company began building these charming catboats in 1921. In 1946, the Concordia Company purchased the molds from John Beetle and continued to build the boats. Today, Beetle, Inc. carries on building them in traditional wood construction. More than 3,000 have been launched. The Beetle Cat is the foundation of the first year of the IYRS Boatbuilding & Restoration program. LOA: 12' 4"; Beam: 6'. Email Terry Nathan for special pricing. tnathan@iyrs.org or 401-848-5777, ext 211.
For Sale: Restored Maine Lobster Boat
$55,000
Sally has all the lines and style of a traditional Maine-style, open lobster boat. Her hull, trim, bright transom, and finish make her a handsome little yacht. She is very functional too, for work or play. Built in 1941 by the Hodgdon Brothers, Boothbay, Maine, Sally was rebuilt in 1993 to her open launch configuration and used as a work boat. She is 26’. Her black hull and varnished trim are a stylish striking contrast. She will be delivered newly powered Yanmar diesel. Inquiries to Terry Nathan at tnathan@iyrs.org or (401) 848-5777, ext 211.
For Sale: Restored Herreshoff Watch Hill 15 - SOLD
$50,000
Nat designed three versions of these slippery fast and attractive one-designs: the Buzzard’s Bay 15, Newport 15, and the Watch Hill 15. In 1923, eleven Watch Hill 15s (24’ LOA; 6’8” beam) with marconi rigs were delivered to the Watch Hill Yacht Club. They are center-board sloops with oak frames and cedar planking, drawing under 2 ½’ with the board up. Those who have sailed these beautiful little yachts have characterized them as both thrilling and quick, go-fast machines. They have avid long-term owners and beautiful lines. Fully restored with a new suite of Nat Wilson sails, $50,000. Inquiries to Terry Nathan at tnathan@iyrs.org, or (401) 848-5777, ext 211.